Sustainable_Development_Goals_Progress_Report_20192020

PROGRESS REPORT ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE 2030 AGENDA FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS 2019/2020 Launching a Decade of Action and Delivery for the SDGs in Jamaica

Published by the Planning Institute of Jamaica 16 Oxford Road Kingston 5 Jamaica W.I Telephone: (876) 960-9339 Fax: (876) 906-5011 Email: [email protected] Website: www.pioj.gov.jm NATIONAL LIBRARY OF JAMAICA CATALOGUING-IN-PUBLICATION DATA Name: Planning Institute of Jamaica, author. Title: Progress report on the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals 2019/2020: launching a decade of action and delivery for the SDGs in Jamaica / Planning Institute of Jamaica. Description: Kingston, Jamaica: Planning Institute of Jamaica, 2022. | Includes bibliographical references. Identifier: ISBN 9789768103949 (eBook). Subjects: LCSH: Sustainable development – Jamaica. | Jamaica – Economic conditions. Classification: DDC 330.97292 -- dc23. Copyright © 2022 by Planning Institute of Jamaica All rights reserved Published March 2022

Table of Contents INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................................. 1 HIGHLIGHTS ........................................................................................................................................ 2 CONTEXT .............................................................................................................................................. 5 SUMMARY GLOBAL REPORT .........................................................................................................12 REGIONAL PERFORMANCE ............................................................................................................18 COUNTRY PERFORMANCE .............................................................................................................19 GOALS AND TARGETS .....................................................................................................................24 THE WAY FORWARD .......................................................................................................................92 APPENDICES ......................................................................................................................................95 Appendix 1- Jamaica’s Performance on the Global SDGs Index and Dashboard.........95 Appendix 2- Performance by Indicator ..................................................................................96 Appendix 3- Spill-over Index Score ........................................................................................97 Appendix 4- Performance by the LAC region........................................................................98 REFERENCES ....................................................................................................................................... 99

List of Tables Table 1 Sea and Air Cargo Volume 2015–2020 ...................................................................................58 List of Figures Figure 1 Indicator of Food Price Anomalies......................................................................................... 31 Figure 2 Mortality Rate for Select Non-communicable Diseases......................................................... 34 Figure 3 Distribution of Health Facilities of All Types ........................................................................ 36 Figure 4 Literacy and Numeracy Grade 4 Mastery Girls vs Boys 2012–2017 ..................................... 39 Figure 5 Proportion of Trained Teachers at Selected School Levels 2015/2016–2018/2019............... 40 Figure 6 Proportion of Male to Female Members of Parliament .......................................................... 46 Figure 7 Portion of Water Bodies Containing Acceptable Levels of Select Chemical......................... 48 Figure 8 Annual Real GDP Growth Rate 2000–2019........................................................................... 52 Figure 9 Tourism Share of GDP 2007–2019 ........................................................................................ 53 Figure 10 Formal vs Informal vs Agricultural Employment 2017–2019.............................................. 53 Figure 11 ABMs per 100 000 People from 2011 to 2019..................................................................... 56 Figure 12 Rural All Seasons Roads Map .............................................................................................. 58 Figure 13 Remittance Cost 2015–2020................................................................................................. 62 Figure 14 E-Waste Produced ................................................................................................................ 68 Figure 15 Protected Marine Areas 2020 ............................................................................................... 75 Figure 16 Protected Mountain Area 2021............................................................................................. 77 Figure 17 Homicide Rate 2012–2019 ................................................................................................... 80 Figure 18 Sexual Offences for the Period 2015–2019.......................................................................... 80 Figure 19 New ODA 2015–2019.......................................................................................................... 85 Figure 20 Remittances Share of GDP amd Debt Service Portion of Exports ....................................... 87 Figure 21 Annual Exports and Imports by Value 2015–2020 .............................................................. 90

INTRODUCTION ensuring that there is accountability among all sectors for the outcomes under the 2030 The 2030 Agenda, which includes the 17 Agenda. Through the process of sustainable development goals and related coordination: mobilization of local and development instruments represents an national action, strengthening capacity for ambitious development framework for implementation, statistics, monitoring, and people, planet, prosperity, peace and reporting are enabled. The process also partnerships. The framework embraces and facilitates continuous engagement of all promotes the tenets of sustainability, stakeholders, raising awareness of critical expressed in its development targets in the development issues whilst providing a areas of social, economic and framework for participation and environmental development, underpinned accountability. by a system of partnerships. Jamaica’s pursuit of sustainable development is This report is one of three official country expressed in Vision 2030–Jamaica National reports documenting progress on the SDGs. Development Plan, its first long-term The others include the Statistical Report on development plan spanning 21 years; from the indicators prepared by the Statistical 2009 to 2030. Consistent with international Institute of Jamaica (STATIN) and the best practice, Jamaica has integrated the annual report on the Medium-Term Socio- SDGs within its long-term development Economic Policy Framework, Vision 2030 plan, providing a platform for prioritization Jamaica which document progress on the of implementation towards the achievement national development indicators aligned of the targets and goals; financing; and with the SDGs and on the process of monitoring and evaluation through an implementing the SDGs through Vision ecosystem of participatory development 2030 Jamaica. This report focusses on the planning. The implementation strategy for process of coordination and the SDGs therefore embraces an inclusive implementation, with emphasis on ‘whole of society approach’, which analyzing progress on the SDGs and encourages ownership and responsibility emphasizing the role of SDG 17, across all sectors, enabling achievement of strengthening the means of the goals. implementation. The process of coordination is central to the 1|Page successful implementation and monitoring of the SDGs. It establishes a framework for inclusive planning and prioritization of the SDGs and the creation of a coherent system of monitoring and evaluation. It enables meaningful engagement of stakeholders through the maintenance of an institutional framework for governance in implementation, monitoring and oversight,

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CONTEXT consultative sessions were convened with targeted stakeholders including persons In 2015 Jamaica adopted the 2030 Agenda with disabilities, women, youth, workers in the agriculture sector, the private sector, for Sustainable Development, built on the community based organizations and non- governmental organizations. These principles of universality; leaving no one engagements served to both sensitize attendees to the SDGs and consult on key behind; interconnectedness and issues for inclusion in the Voluntary National Review (VNR) Report. Following indivisibility; inclusivity and multi- the presentation of the VNR in July 2018, a post VNR roundtable was conducted stakeholder partnerships. The Agenda targeting academia and civil society to facilitate further information sharing and embodies an ambitious pathway of action build consensus around the next steps for SDGs implementation and to facilitate on the dimensions of people, prosperity, ownership among stakeholders. The event was held in September 2018 and included planet, partnership and peace. At the core of presentations on experiences and lessons learnt from the High Level Political Forum the agenda is the Sustainable Development (HLPF) by the Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Goals (SDGs), supported by international Trade, who also presented the VNR at the HLPF. frameworks and development instruments Critical to the process of localization is the including the Sendai Framework for alignment and integration of the Sustainable Development Goals into the Disaster Risk Reduction (2015), Addis national planning framework. The preparation of the Medium-term Socio- Ababa Action Agenda on Financing for economic Policy Framework (MTF) for Vision 2030 Jamaica is a consultative Development (2015), Paris Agreement process, which includes ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) of (2015), and the Small Island Developing government in the planning and States “SIDS” Accelerated Modalities of prioritization process of Vision 2030 Jamaica. The process of formulating the Action (S.A.M.O.A) Pathway (2014). The MTF for the period 2018–2021 involved “Transforming Our World: the 2030 the incorporation of the targets of the Agenda for Sustainable Development”, sustainable development goals in alignment with the goals and outcomes of Vision 2030 embraces the traditional tenets of social Jamaica. This process was critical to positioning the SDGs among the priorities inclusion, economic growth, and to be pursued and was further strengthened environmental protection, as well as the 5|Page promotion of peace and partnerships. Subsequent to the adoption of the 2030 Agenda, Jamaica embarked on efforts to ‘localize’ the SDGs and received funding support from the United Nations Development Programme. A series of consultations were held to create awareness and engage stakeholders, demonstrating the whole of society approach adopted at the implementation of the SDGs. During May 2018, three national consultations were held — in St Thomas, Mandeville and Montego Bay — with approximately 578 participants. In promoting the inclusive and universal nature of the agenda, special

through alignment of the corporate and  advise political and technical operational plans of the MDAs with the directorate, as well as the National goals and targets of the SDGs. 2030 Agenda Oversight Committee on priority areas for acceleration The establishment and strengthening of and policy support components of the institutional framework  liaise with international development partners (IDPs) on was critical to the localization process. The support for the implementation of the SDGs Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ),  provide support to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign mainstreaming process within ministries, departments and Trade (MFAFT) and the Statistical Institute agencies, as well as among IDPs and civil society to support of Jamaica (STATIN) were the established implementation of priority activities focal points for the SDGs, with the PIOJ  coordinate the ongoing monitoring, reporting and accountability playing a coordinating role. The framework (including Corporate and Strategic Plans of MDAs) for development of the 2030 Agenda benefited the SDGs at the national and sub- national levels from the guidance of an inter-ministerial  manage public education committee, which guided the definition and campaign/awareness and advocacy for the SDGs prioritization of development results within  undertake risk assessments and the Agenda. Subsequently, a National SDG foster adaptability. Core Group was established with The National Agenda Oversight Committee was established to provide policy and representation from the three focal points. strategic level advice for implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the SDGs, Additionally, the establishment of a and reports to the Cabinet. Specifically, the Committee’s responsibilities are to: National Agenda Oversight Committee  provide technical and programmatic (NOC) was approved by Cabinet, with advice to the Government and Parliament on the implementation, broad stakeholder participation, including monitoring and evaluation of the SDGs and related platforms of ministries, departments and agencies of action government, the private sector, civil society  provide strategic direction for implementation of the post-2015 and non-governmental organizations. development agenda and the SDGs, using successive Medium-Term The National SDG Core Group was 6|Page established to:  facilitate inter-institutional coordination  facilitate multi-stakeholder coordination, as well as horizontal and vertical policy coherence  provide continuous oversight and coordination for the National SDGs Roadmap for implementation  coordinate sectoral and national consultations and meetings to facilitate the integration of the SDGs and other frameworks of the post-2015 development agenda into national planning frameworks

Socio-Economic Policy Framework  facilitate the resource mobilization (MTFs) as the implementation for implementation of the SDGs mechanism  oversee the process of aligning the  act as champions of the national SDGs with national policies, plans SDGs implementation process. and programmes, including corporate and operational plans Cabinet approved the National Agenda  participate in the strategy mapping Oversight Committee in September 2017 to exercises to identify required provide oversight to the implementation interventions, interlinkages and and monitoring of the SDGs. In addition to resources needed to fill its scope of work, the Committee is tasked implementation gaps with oversight for the implementation of  provide advice on ensuring policy the Roadmap for SDGs Implementation in coherence as it relates to Vision Jamaica. 2030 Jamaica and the priorities presented in each MTF, the SDGs The Roadmap was developed following a and other post-2015 development request of the Government of Jamaica to frameworks the United Nations to field a  provide oversight for the Mainstreaming, Acceleration and Policy measurement and reporting Support (MAPS) mission, to provide framework for the SDGs, to ensure technical support to its development. The data quality, effective monitoring of document was subsequently drafted the SDGs against agreed indicators through consultations with key and targets and timely reporting to stakeholders in policy development and relevant stakeholders implementation. The process also included  review and provide input on a rapid integrated assessment, which relevant national and sector specific revealed over 91.0 per cent alignment of reports to the: Vision 2030 Jamaica and the SDGs. This high level of alignment reflects Jamaica’s a. UN High-Level Political active participation in the process of Forum on Sustainable framing the 2030 Agenda and subsequent Development prioritization process. In addition, the b. Forum of the Countries of Roadmap identified a set of accelerating Latin America and the actions aligned to the four goals of Vision Caribbean on Sustainable 2030 Jamaica, which are anticipated to Development have a multiplier effect across the 17 SDG c. Other sector specific goals. The identification of innovative national, regional and global financing mechanisms for development meetings and commissions were also explored and proposals  establish strategic partnerships at documented in the Roadmap. This includes the global, regional and local levels recommendations for domestic financing, that advance the attainment of the particularly taxation and customs SDGs administration reforms, as well as for improving capacity for tax audits to address transfer pricing; implementation of ‘green 7|Page

fees’, development finance assessments to recommended participation of the Ministry situate and analyse overall development on the National Core Group to facilitate finance flows; international financing continuous alignment of funding to SDGs sources; debt for nature swaps, blue priorities, in the medium to long term, with economy investments, diaspora bonds and the government’s fiscal programme. It was private financing sources to include social noted that preparatory work had begun to impact investments, public–private promote inclusiveness in the partnerships in key economic sectors, implementation of the SDGs, as the venture capital investments for innovative Roadmap for implementation made SMEs and a philanthropy platform to provision for the inclusion of vulnerable finance national development priorities. groups in its priorities, and the existence of targeted programmes for vulnerable In 2018, the Auditor General’s Department groups, which are coherent with Vision conducted an audit of Jamaica’s 2030 Jamaica and its sector plans. The preparedness for implementation of the ‘Leaving No one Behind’ report prepared SDGs. The scope of the Audit involved by the Sir Arthur Lewis Institute of Social assessing the institutional framework for and Economic Studies (SALISES) with the implementation of the SDGs, resource funding support of the United Nations allocation and capacity building Development Programme, was also cited to mechanisms, strategies for raising include identification, and opportunities for awareness, and monitoring and reporting on inclusion, of at-risk groups. National the progress of SDG implementation. The consultations and engagements were also Audit confirmed the over 91.0 per cent put forward as the means to raise alignment of Vision 2030 Jamaica and the awareness, as well as the establishment of a Sustainable Development Goals and that communications subcommittee of the the goals were largely integrated into the National Agenda Oversight Committee, national development planning context. and the preparation of the Communications Targets related to the natural environment, and Advocacy Roadmap for the SDGs. At inequality and partnership for the goals the time of the Audit, STATIN identified reflected low levels of alignment, however, sources to report on 51.0 percent of the 234 it was noted that further alignment would global indicators deemed relevant to be reflected in planning documents, Jamaica, and was unable to measure the particularly the MTF. The report indicated remaining 115 indicators due to that evidence was found of an existing unavailability of data. In June 2017, institutional framework to guide the STATIN established an internal 2030 implementation of the SDGs, however, no Agenda Committee to improve statistical evidence of confirmation was found for the capacity to report on the SDGs indicators. leading role assumed by the PIOJ, and that The Audit found that there was no evidence lines of accountability were unclear and of a work plan in place for the committee to that MDAs were not aware of the Institute’s measure progress on these objectives. role in SDGs coordination. The Audit Furthermore, STATIN indicated resource further revealed the need to strengthen the constraints including a high staff turnover Committee with representation from the that impeded its efforts at improving Ministry of Finance and further statistical activities and producing data for 8|Page

the SDGs indicators. Recognizing that the implementation. The Audit found evidence Statistics Act and the policies of MDAs did of the pursuit of six of the nine sources in not mandate adherence to common various degrees but recognized that a long- statistical standards or coordination in term financing strategy to support the statistics with other MDAs, STATIN delivery of the SDGs was outstanding. recommended amendments to the Act, Arising from the Audit, recommendations which were approved in June 2013 by were made to strengthen the institutional Cabinet. However, at the time of the Audit, framework for SDGs implementation and the amendment was yet to be done. monitoring as well as the strategic planning Additionally, there was no formal and financing frameworks to support the monitoring and evaluation framework SDGs. existing to track progress on systems and programmes of MDAs that contribute to the The Department, based on its findings implementation of the SDGs. The Ministry of Finance and the Public Service (MoFPS) recommended that: had sought external funding to procure software to aid in monitoring public  Cabinet should consider delegating investment projects that are supporting the achievement of the SDGs. overarching responsibility for The Roadmap for SDGs implementation coordinating the implementation of approved by Cabinet in April 2017 was recognized by the Audit for including the SDGs to a specific entity, and critical steps towards the achievement of the 2030 Agenda, covering its alignment documenting and communicating with national priorities, acceleration, financing, data requirements, institutional this information to all stakeholders. coordination and advocacy. The Audit recognized the process of alignment of This would provide greater ministries departments and agencies of government of their strategic and business ownership and commitment for the plans to SDGs delivery and the requirement of MDAs to align their strategic and successful implementation of the business plans to the SDGs Roadmap for implementation. In March 2018, the Audit SDGs as well as identify clear lines recognized that 5 of 14 MDAs were yet to present plans that would enable the office of accountability. of the Cabinet to complete the whole of government business plan and be assured of  MoFPS should consider the alignment of the MDAs strategic and business plans to Vision 2030 Jamaica and representation on the National SDG the SDGs. The Roadmap identified nine sources of funding, including innovative Core Group, as participation would financing options to support SDGs reinforce the continuous alignment of the medium and long-term funding arrangements for SDG implementation with the government’s fiscal programme. In the interim, the MoFPS should consider PIOJ’s request to designate a representative to the National 2030 Agenda Oversight Committee.  The National 2030 Agenda Oversight Committee, in collaboration with MoFPS and MDAs responsible for priority projects, should guide the 9|Page

development of a comprehensive  By way of Cabinet Decision 26/17, funding strategy for the the Government of Jamaica preparedness and implementation approved the Implementation of the SDGs. Roadmap for the Sustainable  The Office of the Cabinet should Development Goals in Jamaica, consider enforcing the relevant inclusive of a commitment to legislations so that MDAs submit continue to utilize budgetary their Strategic Business Plans resources to effectively achieve the within the stipulated timeframe for SDGs. The SDGs are integrated into the timely completion of the 2018– the National Development Plan and 2021 Whole of Government successive MTFs are the means of Business Plan. The Office of the implementation. Financing for the Cabinet should also actively pursue SDGs is therefore within the government’s approval of the plan existing financing framework. to outline the crosscutting nature of MDAs programmes and activities to Following the process of localization, achieve Vision 2030 Jamaica – Jamaica completed its first Voluntary National Development Plan and National Review (VNR) process. The SDGs. process included the preparation of the first Sustainable Development Goals report, a In response to the recommendations, the Communications and Advocacy Roadmap, following actions were taken: an assessment of statistical capacity, an assessment of financing, a Leaving No One  Strengthening of the Monitoring Behind Report and a Statistical Annex to and Evaluation framework for the VNR. The reports supported the Vision 2030 Jamaica and the SDGs preparation of the main VNR report.  Cabinet Decision 6/12 gave The VNR process revealed that approval for the PIOJ to be the accelerating the implementation of the National Focal Point for SDGs requires full and effective coordinating and mainstreaming implementation of the national priorities in Agenda 2030 and instructed the Medium-Term Socio-Economic Policy ministries, departments and Framework of Vision 2030 Jamaica, agencies (MDAs) of government to strengthening the national statistics system, support the implementation of MTF improving the monitoring and evaluation 2018–2021 through alignment of framework, identifying strategies for corporate and strategic plans. financing, improving policy coherence, building capacity of policy makers in policy  In response to the recommendation integration and continuing public for the appointment of a engagement strategies. The process representative of the Ministry of revealed the need for capacity building in Finance to the National Agenda policy coherence, strategic planning, Oversight Committee, the Ministry integration and strengthening of statistical named a representative and two capacity for evidence-based practice. alternates. 10 | P a g e

Acknowledging the centrality of economic As one of the main principles of the SDGs, growth to development, the process the review process included an assessment assessed structural factors that constrain or of persons at risk of being left behind, and inhibit growth. The report indicated that the enabling factors that contribute to this growth was constrained by: status. The process identified, through a study completed by the Sir Arthur Lewis  weather-related shocks Institute for Social and Economic Studies  inefficient plant and equipment that children living in poverty, unemployed youth, persons with disabilities, residents in particularly in the mining and rural areas, older persons, fisherfolk, quarrying, electricity and water informal settlers, rural farmers, pregnant supply and manufacturing and lactating women, adolescent and youth, industries were at greatest risk of being left behind.  crime, whose related costs Limited access to basic social services, low amounted to 3.99 per cent of GDP human capital, susceptibility to natural in 2016; level and quality of human disasters, and belonging to impoverished capital households and communities were  weak linkages between industries identified as enablers. The report within the economy acknowledged that leaving no one behind  access to finance particularly for required several structural and systemic micro, small and medium adjustments, in the areas of: evidence-based enterprises policy formulation, implementation,  the high cost of energy; monitoring and evaluation, including  a high debt to GDP ratio of 103.3 timely disaggregated data for effective per cent at December 2017, which targeting; financing the SDGs, with constrained the level of investment consideration to adequate provisions and in growth equitable resource distribution; effective  the need for improvement in the governance and political prioritization of business environment particularly marginalized groups. Provision of essential trading across borders and services and social welfare; and cultural registering property. change—a normative change that promotes As a small island developing state, and sustains progressive attitudes and Jamaica is also exposed to actions by stakeholders including vulnerabilities including the impact of policymakers who work with marginalized natural disasters, climate change, groups were identified as important external economic shocks and high pathways. levels of indebtedness. In addition, constraints to development were The implementation of the SDGs through a identified by ensuring inclusiveness, whole of society approach requires a robust mainstreaming the SDGs at the level of strategy of stakeholder engagement civil society bodies, increasing public designed to target all members of the awareness and effective subnational society in all sectors. With the financial level mechanisms for policy support of the United Nations Development implementation, and monitoring and Programme, the University of the West evaluation. 11 | P a g e

Indies was contracted to prepare a SUMMARY GLOBAL Communications and Advocacy Roadmap for the SDGs, 2019–2022. The Roadmap REPORT supports the creation of an enabling environment that promotes inclusiveness Global Performance on the SDGs among all sectors of society. It is an In September 2019, at the Global SDGs audience driven and proactive strategy Summit, a Decade of Action was launched premised on the notion that meaningful to reinforce commitment of member states stakeholder engagement is central to the to achieving the SDGs by 2030. This implementation of Vision 2030 Jamaica decade of action was launched due to the and the Sustainable Development Goals. recognition that whilst progress was made, The overarching goal of the Roadmap is the world was not on track to achieve the “…accelerated movement towards SDGs. The Global SDGs Report, which achieving Vision 2030 Jamaica and the documents progress towards the SDGs SDGs as a result of raising awareness in the globally, indicated areas of progress and population, strengthening broad-based regression on the 17 goals. Up to the end of support and action, and increasing 2019, progress was recorded in the areas of individual engagement in the SDG-related poverty reduction, maternal and child policies and practises”. Thus, the guiding mortality rates, access to electricity, principles proposed are inclusiveness and development of national sustainable representation, reciprocity and partnership, development policies and signing clear and transparent communication, international agreements for environmental accountability and follow up, integrity, protection. Global targets that experienced mutual learning, flexibility and reversal, or on which progress was stalled, adaptability, and respect and relationship included the number of people suffering centred. Guided by these principles, the from hunger, the rate of climate change and strategies of the Roadmap aim to increase increasing inequalities within and among uptake and acceptance of the goals through countries.1 mainstreaming, partnerships, increasing awareness, motivating participation and Jamaica’s Comparative Performance2 advocacy. The Global Sustainable Development Report is complemented by a dashboard 1 Progress towards Sustainable Development that utilizes three metrics of SDGs Goals: Report of the Secretary General performance. The ‘overall score’ gives an https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/content/docu indication of the country’s overall ments/26158Final_SG_SDG_Progress_Report_140 performance towards achieving all 17 52020.pdf SDGs and may be interpreted as the percentage SDGs achievement. For the year 2 Complete information on Jamaica’s performance globally may be accessed at https://dashboards.sdgindex.org/profiles/JAM 12 | P a g e

2019, Jamaica’s overall performance on the Jamaica’s spill-over index score was SDGs was 68.7 per cent. The overall rank 92.9/100. demonstrates country performance in relation to all countries that have adopted Progress on the Goals Based on Global the SDGs. For the period, Jamaica’s rank Measurements4 was 84 of 196 countries. The Spill-over The Global SDG Report is prepared Index measures transboundary impacts annually and utilizes data from a range of generated by one country on others, which sources including the World Bank’s may in turn undermine other countries’ database, the UNSTATS database, other capacities to achieve the SDGs. It UN agency databases and other sources. demonstrates how a country’s negative or The global report uses a dashboard to positive actions can impact another graphically represent progress on the country’s ability to achieve the SDGs. A indicators on two levels: the first level higher score on the index indicates more denotes the level of challenge or positive effects. The index includes ‘spill- achievement related to progress on the overs’ in four dimensions of development, goals. This level uses a scale denoted by namely environmental, economic and red–major challenges remain; orange– financial, social and security. Jamaica’s significant challenges remain; yellow– positive performance on the spill-over challenges remain; and green–the goal is index is attributable to positive achieved or is on track to be achieved by the performance and trends on the scarce water target date, 2030. The second level shows consumption embodied in imports and fatal trends on the global indicators, using work-related accidents embodied in similar codes where red denotes decrease in imports indicators. Other indicators with the value of the indicator; orange indicates positive performance included SO2 that there is stagnation or an increase of less emissions embodied in imports, nitrogen than 50.0 per cent of the required rate to emissions embodied in imports, terrestrial meet the target; yellow, that the indicator fresh water biodiversity threats embodied value is moderately improving but is in imports, corporate tax haven score and insufficient to attain the goal; and green exports of major conventional weapons.3 indicates being on track or maintaining CO2 emissions embodied in imports achievement of the goal.5 remains a challenge, with stagnating trends. Challenges also remain in marine The country dashboard for Jamaica biodiversity threats embodied in imports. indicates that no SDG goal was achieved. Challenges remained in the achievement of 3 It should be noted that the country is considered to have ‘achieved’ the substantive targets of these global dashboard is not entirely consistent with the indicators however the latest available data is year under review. Country status is presented based used. See dashboard for details Sustainable on the latest available data for the indicator related Development Report 2021 (sdgindex.org)) to each goal. 4 See section below on country performance for 5 Trends on each indicator are compared against an locally generated data on the relevant SDGs established long-term value, for example, the long indicators in summary. For full report on the term objective for the indictor, literacy rate for the indicators, see SDGs Statistical Report on the population aged 15 to 24 years is 100, denoting that official website of the Statistical Institute of in the long term, the literacy rate for this population Jamaica. It should be noted that the data on the should be 100 per cent. 13 | P a g e

SDGs 1–No Poverty, 7–Affordable and commitment of the international Clean Energy, 11–Sustainable Cities and community to the 2030 Agenda and the Communities, 13–Climate Action and 17– attainment of the SDGs by 2030. One of Partnerships for the Goals. Significant the key messages of the summit was the challenges remain in the achievement of commitment to the 2030 Agenda at the SDGs 3–Good Health and Wellbeing, 4– highest level of government. However, one Quality Education, 5–Gender Equality, 6– message that was not very positive was that Clean Water and Sanitation, 8–Decent financing the 2030 Agenda remained a Work and Economic Growth, 9–Industry challenge and in this regard, the private Innovation and Infrastructure, 12– sector was noted as having a critical role to Responsible Consumption and Production, play in providing the means of 15–Life on Land and 16–Peace, Justice and implementation for realizing the 2030 Strong Institutions. Major challenges were Agenda. noted in the achievement of SDGs 2–Zero Hunger, 10–Reduced Inequalities and 14– Jamaica has been actively involved in the Life Below Water. work of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). Since 2019, The performance trends on the goals Jamaica through the Ministry of Foreign indicate that one goal was on track; SDG 8– Affairs and Foreign Trade has been a Decent Work and Economic Growth. member of ECOSOC, a position which it Moderate improvements were observed for occupied on at least 8 other occasions for SDGs 1, 3, 5, 6, 7 and 17. SDGs 2, 9, 11 two-year terms and for which it has and 16 were observed to be stagnating maintained a noteworthy profile in the work whilst SDGs 4, 14, and 15 were trending of the UN on economic and financial issues. downwards. Trend data was unavailable for Jamaica attaches great importance to the SDGs 10 and 12 in this report. role that ECOSOC plays as the principal United Nations organ responsible for Global Representation making recommendations on economic, At the international level, Jamaica social and environmental issues, and continues to participate in, and lead critical coordinating the implementation of the conversations to advance the Agenda 2030 internationally agreed development goals. locally and globally. The Ministry of In this regard, Jamaica has contributed to Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade during the work of the Council on, among other the year 2019 continued its advocacy on things, the UN development agenda, gender behalf of Jamaica at the multilateral and equality and the empowerment of women, other levels and brought to the attention of and development financing. In addition, development partners its significant Jamaica, as member of ECOSOC is well developmental challenges as well as its placed to be the voice to advocate on behalf achievements in realizing some of Small Island Developing States and development goals. middle-income countries, especially those with heavy debt burdens, as well as to The UN High Level Political Forum on continue to contribute to deliberations on SDGs—the SDGs Summit—provided an the development agenda. effective platform for countries to demonstrate the continued strong 14 | P a g e

Jamaica has also been actively engaged in Agenda for Sustainable Development and discussions on the SDGs at the multilateral the Sustainable Development Goals level both as co-chair and as member of (SDGs) at an international level. In addition informal groups. In particular, Jamaica, to the HLPF in July 2019, the UN Summit through its Permanent Mission in New on the SDGs was held in September 2019. York, co-chairs with Canada, the Group of The event was the first UN summit on the Friends for SDG Financing; co-chairs with SDGs since the adoption of the 2030 Belgium the Group of Friends on Decent Agenda in September 2015. This summit work; participates in the Group of Friends sought to review comprehensively, For Disaster Risk Reduction; co-chairs the progress on the implementation of the Group of Friends on Children and SDGs; SDGs. At the summit, UN member states and is a member of the Group of Friends on adopted a political declaration “Gearing up Oceans, Sports and Development, among for a decade of action and delivery for others. sustainable development”. In the area of Agriculture, during the 41st The High-Level Political Forum on Session of the FAO Conference in July Sustainable Development in 2020 was held 2019, Jamaica supported the candidacy of from Tuesday, 7 July to Thursday, 16 July the incoming Director General. The 2020. The theme was \"Accelerated Action delegation participated in discussions and Transformative Pathways: Realizing surrounding the appointment of a new local the Decade of Action and Delivery for FAO representative whose role would Sustainable Development \". encompass the expansion and repurposing of the national schools’ nutrition The Forum examined the impacts of the programme. COVID-19 pandemic on progress towards SDG implementation, as well as measures The Jamaican Permanent Mission in to accelerate progress. The daily sessions Geneva continues to actively participate in covered poverty and food security, the International Organisation for financing and economic recovery, building Migration (IOM) International Dialogue on resilience in the environment, financing, Migration 2019. The Dialogue’s focus was inter alia. Participants debated the status of on gathering knowledge, expertise, and SDG implementation in light of the impact facilitating evidence-based global of the COVID-19 pandemic. The running awareness on youth and migration, and theme throughout the forum was “local and aimed at encouraging collaboration and global action towards building back better” partnership between youth and key actors in as we grapple worldwide to respond to the migration and related policy areas. pandemic in a way that puts us back on track to achieve the SDGs whilst aiming to High Level Political Forum (HLPF) accelerate progress during this decade of action and delivery. The HLPF is held annually over a period of eight days at the United Nations Jamaica delivered three statements at the Headquarters in New York. The main Forum, inclusive of the statement of the objective of the HLPF is to guide the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign follow-up and review process of the 2030 Trade at the Inter-Ministerial Segment. The 15 | P a g e

Planning Institute of Jamaica delivered Action Agenda were also monitored within statements on “Responding to the the framework of the 2030 Agenda. Economic Shock, Relaunching Growth, Sharing Economic Benefits and Addressing The SAMOA Pathway Developing Countries’ Financing Challenges”, which focused on economic The Mid-Term High-Level Review of the recovery from the COVID- 19 pandemic, SAMOA Pathway was held on September highlighting the government’s response 27, 2019, during high-level week at the UN through the implementation of the CARE Headquarters and included the following: Programme and forecasting recovery based on previously implemented policies to 1. A multi-stakeholder dialogue on strengthen the economy, as well as the progress, gaps, and challenges. effect of stimulus packages implemented Areas addressed included gaps in both locally and globally; and “Are we financing, the devastating effects of leaving no one behind in eradicating natural disasters, and the long-term poverty and working towards the 2030 benefits of investing in resilience Agenda?”, which demonstrated the building and Disaster Risk importance of data and targeted Reduction interventions critical to the response to the pandemic. 2. A multi-stakeholder dialogue on priorities, solutions and the way The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and forward considered the proposal for Foreign Trade delivered its statement on the a “debt for climate adaptation role of science, technology and innovation swaps” to fund resilience; the in the response and recovery efforts. potential of the blue economy and the digital economy to drive The PIOJ also delivered a statement at the economic growth, development and side event hosted by Economic employment Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) on “The 2030 Agenda 3. High-level Political Declaration of for Sustainable Development in the new the Mid-Term Review of the global and regional context: scenarios and SAMOA Pathway outlined projections in the current crisis in Latin progress, gaps and challenges in America and the Caribbean”. The statement implementing the SAMOA spoke to the possible long-term impact of Pathway, as well as calls for action. the pandemic on Jamaica’s development goals, and highlighted Jamaica’s plans, Throughout the review, Jamaica promoted strategies, and interventions to respond and the SAMOA Pathway as an effective recover sustainably from the effects of the framework for engendering genuine and pandemic. durable partnerships for the sustainable development of SIDS. The Prime Minister Supporting Instruments within the 2030 of Jamaica, whose participation in the Agenda Review was well received, spoke about The Sendai Framework, Paris Agreement, Jamaica’s successes in addressing a number SAMOA Pathway, and the Addis Ababa of issues including reducing the debt to GDP ratio. He however, warned that highly indebted countries faced severe financial limitations for implementing the SDGs. 16 | P a g e

Sendai Framework Jamaica played a co-leading role with France and Qatar in an effort to accelerate During discussions at the 74th Session of climate finance investments that would the United Nations General Assembly, promote green energy, mitigate the impact 2019, Jamaica continued to: prioritize the of climate change, and help the most promotion of continued international vulnerable countries adapt. Jamaica’s cooperation, as well as bilateral, regional position as Co-Chair was the perfect and multilateral partnerships to opportunity to highlight the dilemma of comprehensively manage disaster risk in Caribbean SIDS, which are caught between accordance with the Sendai Framework; the actions of human beings and nature. explore opportunities for increased capacity This occasion was also an opportunity for building of developing countries, including Jamaica and the rest of the Caribbean to SIDS, to meet the reporting and evaluation take bolder steps within the United Nations expectations of the Sendai Framework to ensure that the message and call for through strengthened national disaster loss urgent action by all countries and databases; enhance national and local risk international bodies resonate during the UN profiles and available capacities; strengthen Climate Summit. early warning systems; and explore additional options to strengthen fiscal 17 | P a g e resilience to natural hazards through public–private partnerships, insurance mechanisms and other measures in order to reduce the effects of contingent liabilities on the national economies. The Paris Agreement The Paris Agreement is aimed at strengthening the global response to the threat of climate change. The Government of Jamaica is in the process of updating the Climate Change Policy Framework (2015) to include considerations from the Paris Agreement, and the State of the Jamaican Climate Report, among others. Jamaica has updated its Nationally Determined Contribution from a target of 7.8 per cent to 10.0 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, reductions in the forestry and energy sectors of between 25.4 per cent (unconditional) and 28.5 per cent (conditional upon international support) and has, through three entities, engaged the Green Climate Fund (GCF).

REGIONAL environmental impacts, which is evident in large achievement gaps on SDGs 12 PERFORMANCE through to 15”.7 Regional Performance The 2019 SDG Index Report for Latin America and the Caribbean identified lack Jamaica is ranked 12 of 24 ranked countries of innovation, income inequalities and in Latin America and the Caribbean, with a insecurity as the most pressing challenges performance score of 64.16. This in the region. According to the report, the performance on the SDGs falls just below lowest average Index scores are depicted in the regional average of 70.4 per cent. SDG 9–Industry, Innovation and Jamaica is, however, the highest ranked Infrastructure, SDG 10–Reduced country in the Caribbean sub-region.6 inequalities and SDG 16–Peace, justice and strong institutions. Besides, in these The Global SDG Report 2020 notes “Latin specific goals a significant proportion of the American and Caribbean countries perform countries face major or important best on SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 7 challenges. A relatively low public (Affordable and Clean Energy). They have expenditure on R&D, high-income also been experiencing progress on SDG 6 inequalities and homicide rates, matched (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 8 with a widespread feeling of insecurity and (Decent Work and Economic Growth). Yet, growing corruption are the source of it. compared to other parts of the world, greater efforts are needed to reduce income Though the global report identifies SDG 1 and wealth inequalities, which is underlined as being among three goals in which LAC by the poor performance of all countries in Countries are performing best, Jamaica is the region on SDG 10 (Reduced among 11 of 31 ranked countries in the Inequalities). Improving access to and region with challenges remaining in the quality of key services would help progress towards achieving SDG 1. strengthen performance on SDG 3 (Good Although 21 of 31 countries in the region Health and Well-Being) and SDG 4 have achieved or are on track to achieving (Quality Education). In most countries in SDG 7, Jamaica has experienced challenges the region, a high homicide rate is and despite a modest increase, is not at the associated with a low share of people who required rate to achieve the goal. Whilst the feel safe walking alone at night. Combined report indicates that progress is being made with high and often stagnating (or even regionally on SDG 6, significant challenges increasing) perceptions of corruption, these remain for Jamaica. Jamaica is however factors explain poor performance and progressing on SDG 8–Decent Work and trends on SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Economic Growth. Although significant Strong Institutions). Finally, as for other challenges remain, the country, like others parts of the world, economic growth has not in the region is on track to achieve this goal been decoupled from negative by 2030. 6 2019 SDG Index for Latin America and the 7 Excerpt from the Sustainable Development Goals Caribbean Report 2020, pg. 38. 18 | P a g e

Regional Engagement is strengthened with the alignment of the strategic and operational plans of In addition to the local institutional ministries, departments and agencies of framework for SDGs implementation, government to Vision 2030 Jamaica and the Jamaica participates at the regional and SDGs. global levels through mechanisms for strengthening cooperation on SDGs A report on the performance under Vision implementation, as well as reporting. In this 2030 Jamaica is prepared for successive regard, the Economic and Social MTFs, whilst the Statistical Institute of Commission of Latin America and the Jamaica is mandated to report on the SDGs Caribbean, during this period convened indicators annually. This report is therefore various fora at the regional level. Jamaica intended to highlight main areas of progress participated in the Network for the and gaps to inform the process of Implementation of the 2030 Agenda and coordination and implementation. Follow-up to the Sustainable Development Goals in Latin America and the Caribbean. Localization and Integration The objective of the Network is to Localization strengthen the institutional and technical capacities of the governments of the region The implementation of a UNDP-supported engaged in establishing or seeking to project \"Advancing the Achievement of the establish national mechanisms for the SDGs through Vision 2030 Jamaica\" with implementation of the 2030 Agenda and counterpart funding from the GOJ, follow-up to the 17 SDGs. commenced in 2019 and was slated for completion in 2020. The project includes COUNTRY support to the Programme for Localization of Vision 2030 Jamaica and the SDGs, PERFORMANCE which aims to: Country Progress on the Goals  align the local sustainable The integration of the SDGs into the development planning process at National Development Planning the parish level with the national framework enables an integrated and development planning process and coherent system of monitoring progress the SDGs towards achieving the goals and targets of the SDGs and the 2030 Agenda. The goals  develop an online platform and of the SDGs are aligned to the goals and database to support the monitoring outcomes of Vision 2030 Jamaica, whilst of Vision 2030 Jamaica and the the targets are aligned at the strategic level. SDGs The implementation of the National Development Plan therefore enables the  develop a Data Information implementation of the SDGs. This process Management System (DIMS) for monitoring the contribution of international development partner (IDP) support towards the achievement of Vision 2030 Jamaica and the SDGs 19 | P a g e

 develop a Policy Brief on Goals with Vision 2030 Jamaica to an Innovative Financing for integration of the SDGs in its Development. implementation, including the planning and operational framework of ministries, The localization tenet of the project departments and agencies and other primarily comprised the implementation of development actors. Vision 2030 Jamaica “Parish Talk 2019” which included visits to has completed the alignment of the SDGs the 14 parishes of Jamaica, up to December targets and indicators to the national sector 2019, to advance knowledge and strategies and outcomes of the Vision 2030 information sharing with the citizenry, Jamaica, as reflected in the relevant private sector/Chambers of Commerce, and sections in the Medium-Term Socio- schools, including tertiary institutions; and Economic Framework document consultations and capacity building with 2018/2021. municipal corporations (MCs) and Parish Development Committees (PDCs). An integrated monitoring and evaluation system for Vision 2030 Jamaica and the  Development of capacity within SDGs is expected to support the integrated development framework through the local authorities/municipal strengthening of the results-based management system and revision of the corporations across the 14 parishes institutional framework for more efficient monitoring and reporting. The tender of Jamaica to integrate and process for a consultancy to strengthen the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) mainstream Vision 2030 Jamaica Framework and system for both the Vision 2030 Jamaica and the SDGs is ongoing. and the SDGs in local level The outcome should include an updated or developed M&E Framework and planning, such as the Local stakeholder training sessions. Sustainable Development Plans The Community Systems Foundation has also been contracted to develop a platform (LSDPs) as well as the corporate named ‘Data for All’, which will implement areas of the SDGs and Vision and operational plans of these 2030 Jamaica. The platform is intended to enable stakeholders to report more authorities. effectively and monitor Jamaica’s progress towards its achievement of the Vision 2030  The engagement of 12 entities in 13 Jamaica and the targets of the SDGs. An online platform is to be established to workshops in capacity building to complement and strengthen the country’s national capacity to monitor and report on support the alignment of corporate the achievement of its 4 national goals and 15 national outcomes and report on and operational plans with Vision 20 | P a g e 2030 Jamaica–National Development Plan, during April– June 2019. The main achievements included the engagement of 13 of 14 (MCs) in workshops to support the alignment of local sustainable development planning with Vision 2030 Jamaica and the SDGs Integration The country has progressed from an alignment of the Sustainable Development

progress in advancing the global agenda. the Planning Institute of Jamaica; with the The Vision 2030 Jamaica Secretariat thematic Working Groups of Vision 2030 commenced the process of establishing the Jamaica comprised of sector leaders and platform which will host the indicators experts. from Vision 2030, JAMSTATS and other key projects and programmes. Strengthening the Institutional Framework Stakeholder Engagement In March 2019, Cabinet Decision No. 6/12 Activities to promote public education and confirmed the PIOJ as the Focal Point for stakeholder engagement during the year the Sustainable Development Goals, with included public sensitization sessions responsibility for coordinating and targeting community leaders, local business mainstreaming the Global Agenda. The owners, the elderly, persons with Sustainable Development Goals Secretariat disabilities and youth. Through the parish within the PIOJ was strengthened as part of Talk Initiative, parish libraries; academic the national coordination mechanism to institutions from the early childhood to support Jamaica’s integrated, inclusive and tertiary levels; chambers of commerce and comprehensive approach to localizing and other private sector partners; Parish and mainstreaming the SDGs at the national and Community Development Committees sub-national levels. The continued GOJ (PDCs, CDCs); the media; churches; civil budgetary support for the Vision 2030 society organizations (CSOs) and non- Jamaica and Sustainable Development governmental organizations (NGOs); and Goals Secretariats within the Planning the public were engaged in activities to Institute of Jamaica, facilitated and raise awareness of Vision 2030 Jamaica and strengthened coordination, Plan the SDGs. implementation and related activities. This included monitoring, reporting and Institutional Framework evaluation of progress made toward the development objectives outlined in Vision The institutional framework for the SDGs 2030 Jamaica–National Development Plan comprises the National Agenda Oversight and the 2030 Agenda. Committee which is made up of representatives of ministries, departments, Thematic Working Groups (TWGs)8 serve agencies of government, civil society and as the main consultative mechanism for private sector representatives. In addition to monitoring and evaluation (M&E) under the National SDGs Core Group and its sub- Vision 2030 Jamaica. The integration of the committees, comprising focal points from SDGs into Vision 2030 Jamaica, and by Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign extension an integrated monitoring and Trade; Statistical Institute of Jamaica and evaluation framework, extends this role of the TWGs to the monitoring of the 8 TWGs are typically led by two co-chairs sustainable development goals. By 2019, comprising Permanent Secretaries and senior technical officers in government as well as other membership of TWGs consists of representatives key stakeholder groups, including academia. The from the public and private sectors, academia, civil society and non-governmental organizations, and international development partners (IDPs). 21 | P a g e

fourteen TWGs were established with 10 and Evaluation; (ii) Communication and being active. In March 2019, a Sport TWG (iii) Resource Mobilization. The Data, was established with the Permanent Monitoring and Evaluation and Reporting Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Sub-Committee is tasked with providing Gender, Entertainment and Sport oversight for the measurement and (MCGES) serving as the chair, and the reporting framework for the SDGs, to Head of the School of Sport Sciences, ensure data quality and effective University of Technology serving as the monitoring of the SDGs against agreed vice-chair. During the reporting period, 25 indicators and targets. The TWGs meetings were held. The TWGs for Communications Sub-Committee is Health, Population, Education and responsible for the advancement and Training, Social Protection/National Social maintenance of the communication Protection Committee and Hazard Risk programme for the SDGs, to ensure Reduction and Adaptation to Climate effective public awareness and engagement Change were convened. on the SDGs. The Resource Mobilization Sub-Committee was conceptualized to A process of review was also initiated for ensure that adequate funds are available to the institutional frameworks for SDGs and effectively implement the SDGs, to identify Vision 2030 Jamaica as part of a innovative financing solutions and monitoring and evaluation consultancy, opportunities to support the achievement of which commenced in 2019. This review the SDGs. was necessitated by the process of integrating the SDGs into Vision 2030 Two meetings of the National SDG Core Jamaica and the need for a more efficient Group were convened. The deviation from institutional system to enable meaningful the required frequency was due to the engagement of stakeholders at all levels. In process of strengthening the SDGs response to the recommendation of the Secretariat. Audit on Jamaica’s Readiness to Implement the SDGs, a recommendation Summary Development Report was made to include a representative from The Sustainable Development Goals are the MoFPS on the National Oversight integrated into the Vision 2030 Jamaica– Committee and the National SDGs Core National Development Plan. The goals and Group. Since then, two representatives targets were integrated into the MTF 2018– have been nominated to sit on the National 2021. The goals were further aligned to the Oversight Committee.9 four goals and 15 national outcomes of Vision 2030 Jamaica and the targets at the Terms of reference were drafted for the strategic level. In the first five years of three subcommittees of the National implementing the SDGs through Vision Agenda Oversight Committee. These 2030 Jamaica, the harmonized framework subcommittees are: (i) Data, Monitoring 22 | P a g e 9 Deputy Financial Secretary and the alternate was Acting Deputy Financial Secretary for the Economic Management Division.

revealed that there are among indicators 16, 2, 11 of the sustainable development that met or exceeded the target. goals. The assessment of progress on the Four targets within the area of social harmonized framework reveals that life development were met- the prevalence of expectancy at birth, population growth rate, poverty, including child poverty and food grade 4 literacy rates (male and female), poverty rate; maternal and child mortality, annual inflation rate, infrastructure index, life expectancy and child literacy; were percentage change in foreign exchange achieved impacting targets under SDG 1, 2, earnings from tourism, unemployment rate, 3 and 4 respectively. In the area of security, child (<5 yrs.) mortality ratio, government justice and cohesion, targets were met for effectiveness index and the case clearance the government effectiveness indicator, as rate are among outcome indicators that met well as case clearance—the rate of or exceeded the target. These results impact clearance for case backlog—aligned to SDG 3, 4, 8, 9, and 16. Aligned to SDG 16. In the area of economic objectives under SDG 8, 16, 7, 2 and 11, six development, the state of economic of the fifteen national outcome indicators infrastructure, earnings from manufacture improved over the baseline. The Human and tourism, unemployment, number of Development Index; percentage of labour scientific publications, nominal GDP per force that is certified; control of corruption capita, as well as the debt to GDP ratio, Index; Energy Intensity Index; Agriculture targets were met. The economic Production Index and the Housing Quality development results are aligned with the Index, demonstrated positive change over objectives of SDG 8, promoting decent the period. Four outcome indicators work and economic growth. remained the same as baseline (2007) or worsened: Attendance rates - Early The data indicate that some development Childhood to Secondary Education; indicators were trending in a positive Regulatory Quality Index; Environmental direction, moving towards achievement of Performance Index and the Proportion of the target. The human development index, households with access to secure tenure. voice and accountability index, rule of law All four had an impact on SDG 4, 16, 6, 11, index, serious crimes, including the murder 12, 13, and 15. rate, the energy intensity index, labour market efficiency index, resident patent Performance at the strategic level was also filing, agriculture production index and the recorded for the period. Development gains housing quality index showed positive were attained in the areas of human capital trends over the period of review. These development and social protection, indicators will have an impact on results macroeconomic stability, reduction in under goals 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 11 and 16. unemployment, energy security, effective governance, key economic sectors of 23 | P a g e tourism, agriculture and manufacturing, as well as infrastructural development. These areas of progress are aligned with development objectives within goals 1, 8, 7,

GOALS AND cost of a basket containing essential food TARGETS and non-food items. Based on this metric, 1 out of every 5 Jamaicans was poor in 2015, End poverty in all its forms with poverty being more prevalent among everywhere. young people; 27.8 per cent of adolescents (aged 10–19) 26.5 per cent of children and Targets 26.2 per cent of youth. Poverty was also 1.1) the eradication of poverty defined as more prevalent in rural areas, 28.5 per cent people living on less than $1.90 a day compared to 14.3 per cent for the Kingston 1.2) Reduce by at least half the population Metropolitan Area. living in poverty in all dimensions as defined nationally The national poverty prevalence was 1.3) Implement social protection and achieve estimated within the revised series10 at 19.3 substantial coverage for the most vulnerable per cent for 2017, and 12.6 per cent for 1.4) Ensure equal rights to economic resources 2018. including land, property and financial services. 1.5) Build resilience of the poor and vulnerable The Jamaica Survey of Living Conditions to extreme shocks and disasters (JSLC) 2018 estimated that 12.6 per cent of 1.6) Ensure significant mobilization of the population was living in poverty, with resources to implement programs and end the overall adult equivalent poverty line poverty being $194 541.29.11 This compares with 1.7) Create policy frameworks based on pro- 19.3 per cent in the previous year, poor and gender-sensitive strategies to support representing a 6.7 percentage point decline. poverty eradication. The largest prevalence was recorded for _____________________________________ Rural Areas (RA) at 15.0 per cent, while _ Other Urban Centres (OUC) was estimated The national poverty rate is determined by at 12.0 per cent, and the Greater Kingston households’ ability to afford the minimum Metropolitan Area (GKMA) at 9.2 per cent. The comparative data for the revised 2017 10 The revised series is based on changes made to estimates were 20.2 per cent for RA, 19.8 the sampling and weighting methodologies for the per cent for OUC and 17.7 per cent for 2018 survey. Consequently, comparisons cannot be GKMA. Food poverty prevalence stood at made with data prior to 2017. 3.5 per cent in 2018, a decline from 5.4 per cent in 2017. The overall adult equivalent food poverty line was $127 002.00. OUC was the region with the highest prevalence of the food poor (3.9 per cent), followed by RA with 3.7 per cent and GKMA with 2.9 per cent. Comparative 2017 regional data was 5.6 per cent in RA, 5.5 per cent in GKMA and 4.8 per cent in OUC. The consumption methodology for estimating poverty continued to be used, 11 Planning Institute of Jamaica and Statistical Institute of Jamaica.2020. Jamaica Survey of Living Conditions 2018 24 | P a g e

and the trend indicated that inroads were of cash transfers, as well as school-related being made in improvement to the quality support and case management of life. It can be inferred that a combination interventions. Other major poverty of factors assisted the households measured programmes such as Poor Relief assistance, in the relevant survey to consume at a School Feeding Programme and in-kind higher level. These factors included supports continued to be effected through macroeconomic indicators such as low government entities and the private sector. inflation and sustained economic growth, The Steps-To-Work Programme, which social transfers and improved food security. seeks to enable working members of The data indicate that the country was on welfare households, continued to support target to significantly reduce extreme employability and livelihood experiences, (food) poverty, and to achieve prevalence benefiting over 400 persons in 2020. targets below 10.0 per cent. As national Additionally, government made provisions goals, these targets are closely aligned with for post-secondary and tertiary scholarships the SDGs. to support academic pursuits by students of welfare households. The government has maintained several integral social protection programmes, To advance the social and economic particularly in the context of social inclusion of persons with disabilities, the assistance to the vulnerable. The government in 2015 created a budget Programme of Advancement Through allocation for an Economic Empowerment Health and Education (PATH) had a Grant of $15.0 million, to provide eligible registration of 331 780 persons at applicants with capital support for small December 2020. Some 64.8 per cent of businesses and livelihoods, as well as for beneficiaries were from the children purchase of assistive aids. The programme categories of the programme, followed by budget increased to $17.0 million in the elderly persons, at 23.9 per cent. These 2019/20 fiscal year. most vulnerable categories, therefore, constituted 88.7 per cent of programme The government committed to increasing beneficiaries.12 Household applications to the range of social protection services PATH were consistent at approximately offered. In response to the COVID-19 35.0 per cent nationally, over the recent pandemic, the government has data series (JSLC 2018). Some 71.7 per implemented the COVID-19 Allocation of cent of households in the poorest quintile, Resources for Employees (CARE) and 61.6 per cent of those in the second programme, which provides grants to quintile applied for the programme in 2018. persons who were laid off due to the Some three-quarters of the poorest economic impacts of the pandemic. CARE applicant households were accepted for also provides tax cuts on supplies crucial to benefits on PATH in 2018, with a the fight against COVID-19 such as corresponding 63.7 per cent of Quintile 2. customs duty on the import of masks and The data show that the programme waivers of special consumption tax on continued to serve some of the poorest and alcohol used for sanitizers.13 most vulnerable families, with the delivery centre/press/2633-fiscal-stimulus-response-to-the- 12 MLSS administrative data covid-19.html 13 Ministry of Finance, Fiscal Stimulus Response to the COVID-19. Retrieved from: 25 | P a g e https://mof.gov.jm/mof-media/media-

The experience of the COVID-19 pandemic Flexible programming enabled responsive reinforced the need for effective benefit social assistance to persons and families not delivery systems, and extended the reach of registered with the main social protection social protection services. The modality of programmes, while the use of electronic PATH and other social transfer transfers mitigated restricted mobility. programmes accommodated swift delivery of cash and in-kind benefits to both The National Insurance Scheme is the registered and unregistered clientele across minimum guarantee social security the country. Needs were met through a provision available to all workers. combination of municipal and community Registration on the scheme has traditionally efforts, and through channels facilitated by been lower than anticipated, largely technology and collaboration with the because of the size of the informal labour private and non-government sectors. economy. The Vision 2030 Jamaica– Government, through the Ministry of National Development Plan recognizes that Finance and the Public Service responded increased coverage by NIS may cushion to several areas of vulnerability through the some of the poverty risks faced by persons We CARE Programme, a stimulus package at a time of income loss, including valued at some $10.0 billion in 2020, to retirement. NIS coverage of the eligible sustain employment and provide income population, 18 years and over, was support for various groups. The intention estimated at some 55.4 per cent in 2018 by was to stem labour market fallout and the way of survey data. Coverage of the social and economic impacts that could informal and own account sectors remains result in the reversal of social gains. Part of weak. Plans have been put in place to the government’s response was also to encourage formalization among groups of initiate the development of a new social workers, supporting the attachment to pensions intervention to benefit categories social insurance as an avenue for greater of elderly persons. Efforts were access to social security. In April 2021, the immediately advanced to conduct a Insurable Wage Ceiling for the NIS was feasibility study into an Unemployment increased from $1.5 million to $3.0 million, Insurance Scheme as a buffer for with a further increase expected in the next involuntary income loss. These measures fiscal year, to shore up the viability of the form part of the continued expansion of National Insurance Fund. social protection coverage, as both social pensions and unemployment insurance Based on the revised methodologies, were described as elements of the country’s coverage in 2018 was 55.4 per cent. The social protection floor in the Social portion of people in quintiles 1 and 2 Protection Strategy. covered by the NIS was 28.7 per cent and 35.3 per cent, respectively, in 2015, and Disruptions in livelihood gave rise to the 41.3 per cent and 49.2 per cent for 2018, need for greater support to the most respectively. vulnerable. The government responded through increased social transfers, Programmes and policies that enable the including cash and in-kind support, shelter reduction of poverty in Jamaica include, and medical assistance. Public entities inter alia, the National Food and Nutrition across the country were galvanized to Security Policy (2013), the Food Safety create access for beneficiaries to services Policy (2013), the Jamaica Social and benefits at the community level. Protection Strategy (2014) and the National Policy on Poverty and National Poverty 26 | P a g e

Reduction Programme (2017). Notable frameworks have established partnership achievements over period the include linkages and networks to better facilitate continued implementation of programmes collaborative actions. to increase access to economic resources, including access to land titling services; During 2020, the coordination of the access to finance; and on-lending facilities National Poverty Reduction Programme through the Foundation for (NPRP) gathered momentum despite Competitiveness and Growth Project challenges encountered as a result of (FCGP), which was funded by the World containment measures in response to the Bank. COVID-19 pandemic. To support the ongoing delivery of poverty- In 2000, the Land Administration and related programmes and services, the Management Programme (LAMP) was government instituted a National Poverty established by the Government of Jamaica Reduction Policy and Programme in 2017. to increase regularization of land An extensive institutional framework, ownership. Between 2013 and 2015, an consisting of a nationally representative average of 39.5 per cent of households Programme Monitoring Committee was owned the land on which they lived. In the established, and functions as a knowledge subsequent periods, 2016 to 2017, the sharing and collaborative forum for overall percentage of Jamaicans that own enhancing the scope and reach of poverty the land on which they live increased to programmes and provisions. The Poverty 43.8 per cent in both years. The proportion Reduction Coordinating Unit (PRCU) of of landowners in the two poorest quintiles the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ) however declined, from 41.8 per cent in continued to give oversight to the 2015 to 36.0 percent in 2017 for quintile 1 implementation, monitoring and evaluation and 41.3 per cent in 2015 to 39.2 per cent in of the National Poverty Reduction 2017 for quintile 2, indicating the need to Programme (NPRP). The first Medium- improve accessibility to land and affordable term NPRP (2018–2021) commenced in housing for the vulnerable. April 2018, following the approval of the National Policy on Poverty and National During the 2015–2019 period, the total Poverty Reduction Programme by Cabinet government expenditure on social in September 2017. The multi-sectoral protection, and poverty reduction National Poverty Reduction Programme programmes increased. Total spending on Committee (NPRPC) was established in programmes such as the Poverty 2018 to provide oversight to the Alleviation Programme rose from $1.7 implementation of the NPRP. The NPRPC billion in the 2014–2015 fiscal year to an feeds into the broader oversight mandate of estimated $1.9 billion in the fiscal year the National Social Protection Committee, 2018–2019.14 There was also an established in 2014, to provide strategic and approximately 41.0 per cent increase in policy guidance to the development and spending on the school nutrition strengthening of a comprehensive social programme, which aims to provide protection system. Both institutional nutritional support to vulnerable students attending public institutions, from $4.2 14 Ministry of Finance, 2020-2021 budget estimates. ( Figure refers to capital expenditure, i.e. 27 | P a g e exclusive of recurring expenditure)

billion in 2015/2016 fiscal year to $6.1 unemployment insurance modalities. The billion in the 2018–2019 fiscal year.15 digital economy became more imperative as a delivery modality for information, Timely, quality disaggregated data is benefits and services, with moves being necessary to support the principle of made to advance electronic transfers and leaving no one behind, through improved expand financial inclusion in formal targeting of interventions. Jamaica is banking systems. pursuing the development of a multidimensional poverty index. Currently, A primary area of concern involves the low the methodology that is used for estimating level of land ownership and the persistence poverty is a consumption-based monetary of people in lowest income quintiles. measure. Efforts are under way to explore Coverage of the National Insurance scheme alternative, non-income measures of is lowest among people in the lowest poverty, which are intended to better income quintiles. This is against the facilitate human development through backdrop of a high level of labour improved targeting. informality, which is associated with low enrolment in social security programmes Outlook and conclusion like the NIS, leaving a large portion of the population without social security Jamaica has made improvements in coverage. The need to address systemic issues and barriers to accessing social reducing the national poverty prevalence. protection has become more evident with the impact of the novel coronavirus disease Just prior to the outbreak of the pandemic 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, which has affected employment and livelihood. It is in 2020, Jamaica had been enjoying steady expected globally that the pandemic thrusted between 71 and 100 million people economic growth and positive into extreme poverty (World Bank 2020, as cited by UNDESA).16 The impact of the macroeconomic indicators. Poverty was on pandemic is more evident among persons in lower income categories who are less a downward trend, with increased mean resilient to shock as a result of their vulnerabilities, thus exacerbating poverty consumption expenditure, and and inequality. The World Bank further estimates that Small Island Developing improvements in food security and States (SIDS) and the Asian region will be most affected by growing inequality and a employment levels. Under the new series of deceleration in growth. poverty estimates, so far revised to 2017, There is still a need to improve financing to, and coverage of social programmes, as well extreme poverty was at approximately 3.5 as increasing resilience of the vulnerable, particularly in rural areas. Addressing the per cent by 2018, signalling the possibility 16 UNDESCA, The Long-Term impact of COVID- that, if sustained, eradication could be 19 on poverty https://www.un.org/development/desa/dpad/publica achieved. The social protection system tion/un-desa-policy-brief-86-the-long-term-impact- of-COVID-19-on-poverty/ responded agilely to the shock of the 28 | P a g e pandemic, providing unprecedented levels of social transfers to both registered and unregistered beneficiaries. Actions were advanced to extend social protection coverage to vulnerable elderly persons, persons with disabilities, and unemployed workers, through budgetary allocation for social pensions, and the examination of 15 . Ministry of Finance estimates of expenditure, https://www.mof.gov.jm/documents/documents- publications/document-centre/file/2337-estimates- of-expenditure-2020-2021.html

issue of the informal economy is also a 2.b) correct and prevent trade restrictions and critical step to promoting increased social distortions in world agricultural prices and protection coverage, through participation in major social protection schemes. 2.c) adopt measures to ensure proper functioning of food commodity prices to limit End hunger, achieve food extreme food price volatility. security and improved nutrition and promote __________________________________ sustainable agriculture _ Targets: Food security has been flagged as an 2.1) End hunger and ensure access by all, integral aspect of social protection in especially the vulnerable, including infants, to several policy documents. These include safe nutritious and sufficient food all year round the National Food and Nutrition Security 2.2) By 2030 end all forms of malnutrition Policy, the Jamaica Social Protection including achieving by 2025 targets on stunting Strategy, the National Policy on Poverty and wasting in children and the nutritional and National Poverty Reduction needs of adolescence girls and lactating women Programme, inter alia. Since food security 2.3) Double the agricultural productivity and questions were canvassed in the national income of farmers, particularly those from survey beginning in 2016, there were some vulnerable groups improvements in the subsequent series, 2.4) Ensure sustainable food production and ahead of the 2020 pandemic. The implement resilient practices that boost proportion of the population having efficiency and capacity to adapt to climate sufficient food to eat on a regular basis was change and natural disasters 59.3 per cent in 2016, 58.2 per cent in 2017 2.5) Maintain genetic diversity of seeds, plants and 62.7 per cent in 2018. farmed and domesticated animals 2.a) increased investment to enhance In 2015, approximately 6.9 per cent of the agriculture productive capacity, population lived in extreme poverty. This was higher than the average for countries in 17 UN STAT database source: the Latin America and Caribbean Region https://unstats.un.org/sdgs/indicators/database/ (5.5 per cent), but lower than Small Island Developing States (18.0).17 In 2018,18 the prevalence of extreme poverty was 3.5 per cent, which is within the medium-term target range specified by Vision 2030 Jamaica for the period 2018–2021. Issues of food security and hunger were addressed in the National Food and Nutrition Security Policy (2013), which provides a framework for actions that support accessibility, affordability, and stability of food supply, with focus on ensuring food is treated as a basic right for all citizens and particularly the most vulnerable. The school feeding programme implemented by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS) and the Ministry of Education Youth and 18 Based on the revised estimates. 29 | P a g e

Information (MOEYI) seeks to address volatility is important. The FAO’s food and nutrition security for children recommended method to track price enrolled in school. The programme volatility is through the Indicator of Food provided meals to students at the early Price Anomalies (IFPA). This gives an childhood to secondary levels and was approximation of the number of periods of funded at $4.5 billion in 2016 but decreased abnormally high and volatile markets that to $3.8 billion in the 2019/2020 fiscal may be due to improper local market year.19 mechanisms or shocks. The price of bread Both stunting and wasting are measures of and cereals were tracked as the main food malnutrition. Stunting is defined as commodity, due to cereals still accounting abnormally low height for age. This is less for roughly 45.0 per cent of a person’s daily than two standard deviations from the caloric intake, particularly for persons from median height-for-age for children under developing countries (FAOSTAT 2017). five. In 2018, the percentage of children During the period leading up to the under five years old whose height was too adoption of the SDGS, the years (2012– low for their age was 4.1 per cent. Wasting 2015) there had been months of highly is defined as low weight for height based on volatile agricultural prices where the the global median from the World Health average price increase for the month was Organization child growth standards. The relatively high compared with prior years. prevalence of wasting in 2018 was 2.6 per The post-2015 period saw lower levels of cent. abnormally high price increases with the more recent years enjoying relatively low- Programmes to improve food security and price volatility, coinciding with the general nutrition among children include in-kind level of stable inflation (Figure 1). benefits provided by PATH, the Food Based Dietary Guideline Social Marketing 20Ministry of health and Wellness, Campaign, development of the draft https://www.moh.gov.jm/programmes-policies/ National Infant and Young Child Feeding Policy and Strategic Plan, and the Launch 30 | P a g e of a National Food Industry Task Force.20 The drafting of the National School Nutrition Policy will also seek to promote health and well-being in young children. This policy, which is to be finalized by the Ministry of Education Youth and Information, will seek to facilitate increased access to safe and nutritionally adequate food, and ensure physical activity among children. This is coupled with new guidelines that were introduced in 2019 to place restrictions on the sale of sugary beverages in and around schools as recommended by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). To achieve greater food security and a more efficient market, limiting food price 19 Ministry of Finance, Expenditure Estimates 2019/2020.

Food security is linked to sustainable scale for small farmers and to mainstream agricultural practices, and, in the case of climate resilience (Economic and Social Jamaica, where agricultural production Survey Jamaica 2019).21 Additionally, consists of many small-scale farmers, the there has been increased investment in livelihood and productivity of these small research and technical development in the farmers. Through MDAs as well as through agricultural sector in 2019. This includes a NGOs and IDPs, programmes offer $26.2 million outlay for the purpose of agricultural support, in the form of refurbishing a seed storage facility for knowledge sharing and technical support, vegetative seeds that are of economic to build capacity as well as measures to importance, as well as training sessions that improve land tenure, irrigation, and access focus on disseminating information on pest to markets. Specific programmes that aim management and best postharvest to enhance sustainability include the Import Substitution Programme that aims to techniques for storage. This is executed achieve self-sufficiency in select through the Pilot Programme for Climate agricultural industries. The Agro Parks Resilience (ESSJ 2019). Figure 1 Indicator of Food Price Anomalies (Source: Planning Institute with data from the BOJ) JAN 2012 6 APR 2012 4 JUL 2012 2 OCT 2012 0 JAN 2013 -2 APR 2013 -4 JUL 2013 -6 OCT 2013 -8 JAN 2014 APR 2014 JUL 2014 OCT 2014 JAN 2015 APR 2015 JUL 2015 OCT 2015 JAN 2016 APR 2016 JUL 2016 OCT 2016 JAN 2017 APR 2017 JUL 2017 OCT 2017 JAN 2018 APR 2018 JUL 2018 OCT 2018 JAN 2019 APR 2019 JUL 2019 OCT 2019 JAN 2020 IFPA Index/ Inflation rate % High Mid high normal Midlow low project (2012) that aims to build on the To maintain the diversity of seeds, the productive capacity of the Agricultural National Seed Policy and Implementation sector through infrastructure development Plan was implemented in 2018. The plan and the GLOBALGAP CERTIFICATE seeks to ensure a consistent and reliable programme is designed to improve supply of seeds to improve production, agricultural productivity. efficiency, and biodiversity. To ensure further progress on the targets of goal 2, adequate funding is required. In Conclusion and Outlook 2015, in alignment with target 2.A, the total funding to the agricultural sector was Progress has been made to meet targets US$0.98 million in grants and US$75.39 pertaining to undernourishment, evidenced million in loans. For 2020, the preliminary by a decline in the incidents of wasting and figures were approximately US$3.04 stunting in children under five. There have million in grants and no loan inflows. In also been several policies aimed at ensuring 2019, a loan of US$40.0 million was nutrition and food security for children secured from the World Bank to the from the early childhood to secondary agricultural sector to improve economies of 21 Planning Institute of Jamaica. Economic and Social Survey Jamaica 2019. 31 | P a g e

levels. There however remains issues with 3.6) Halve the number of global deaths and the level of agricultural productivity, injuries from road traffic accidents primarily the level of crop yield and the susceptibility to transitory price instability 3.7) Universal access to sexual and due to climate-related events such as reproductive health-care services and the drought, despite overall relative stability in integration of reproductive health into national prices in recent years. It is therefore development strategies expected that if the rate of climate change continues, price anomalies that are driven 3.8) Universal health coverage and affordable by weather-related events may become essential medicines and vaccines more frequent, thus there is a need for more investment in climate resilient technology 3.9) Reduce the number of deaths and illness and practices. from hazardous chemicals and air, water and soil pollution and contamination Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all 3.a) Strengthen the implementation of the World Health Organization Framework at all ages Convention on Tobacco Control in all countries, as appropriate Targets: 3.1) Reduce global mortality ratio to less than __________________________________ 70 per 100 000 livebirths 3.2) Neonatal mortality as low as 12 per 1 000 The Vision for Health 2030- Ten Year live births and under-5 to as low as 25 per 1 000 Strategic Plan 2019–2030 and the live births Extraordinary 5-Year Capex Plan for 3.3) End AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, and Health 2019–2024, promote sustainable tropical diseases. Combat hepatitis, waterborne development in the health sector. Among diseases, and other communicable diseases the goals of the Ten-Year Strategic Plan 3.4) Reduce by one third, premature mortality are: ensuring safe motherhood; improving from non-communicable diseases the health of the population by reducing 3.5) Strengthen the prevention and treatment of morbidity due to communicable and non- substance abuse communicable diseases; and reducing neglected infectious diseases, particularly 22 https://www.moh.gov.jm/wp- among the poor and vulnerable. The Capex content/uploads/2019/05/MOH-CAPEX-2019.pdf Plan plays a pivotal role in health financing, improving infrastructure and digitization of speciality care in Jamaica.22 Improving the well-being of women and children is a vital part of achieving the targets of SDG goal 3, and for Jamaica’s National Development Plan. Since 2015, the maternal mortality rate has remained consistently above the SDG target of 70 per 100 000 live births with a current rate of 87.1 per 100 000 live births (ESSJ 2019). Jamaica has, however, shown a steady decline in the infant mortality rate from 32 | P a g e

16.7 per 1 000 in 2015 to 15.5 in 2018. Health and HIV 2014–2019 continues to During the 2015–2020 period, there was a continuation of the Programme for the govern the HIV response. Currently, a new Reduction of Maternal and Child Mortality (PROMAC), which was initially HIV strategic plan is being developed. The implemented in 2013 with funding from the European Union. PROMAC aims to HIV/AIDS response is funded through both support the following functions: improve primary health care and referral services, government and development partners such provide information about effective reproductive health, and assist the ministry as the Global Fund, the United States and its affiliates to strengthen their capability in infant and maternal health.23 Agency for International Development Notable achievements of the programme include the distribution of midwife (USAID), and the World Bank. The Global equipment bags, procurement of hospital equipment and ambulances, training of Fund in 2019 allocated US$12.0 million, of nurses and physicians, and designing and equipping of maternal and neonatal high which US$4.2 million was allocated to dependency units. fight HIV AIDS. This is to reduce Target 3.3 involves ending the epidemic of certain diseases and viruses. According to morbidity and mortality, as well as to baseline data from 2015, Jamaica had a low incidence of malaria. Since 2012, Jamaica implement biomedical and supportive was on the official register as having eradicated malaria. Since then there have interventions that aim to reduce new been reports of only two imported cases, which were contained. Jamaica has been infections among key populations (ESSJ able to prevent its reintroduction through strong public health surveillance. Jamaica 2019). The Pan American Health experiences low incidences of Tuberculosis (0.38 per 100 000), based on 2015 data Organization/ World Health Organization (Jamaica VNR 2018).24 The number of new HIV cases in Jamaica averaged 1 399 per have completed over 29 projects that cover year from 2015 to 2018.25 the areas of HIV/STI prevention; policy The framework for the national response to HIV is focused on prevention, treatment development; health promotion; health and care; an enabling environment and human rights; and monitoring and systems and capacity building, with total evaluation. The National Integrated Strategic Plan for Sexual and Reproductive funding of US$4.6 million. Key 23 https://www.moh.gov.jm/programmes- achievements have included an integration policies/promac/ 24 Planning Institute of Jamaica.2018. Jamaica of the HIV/AIDS services in the National Voluntary National Review on the Implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Family Planning Board, development of the draft National Integrated Sexual Health Strategic Plan, establishment of the National HIV/AIDS-Discrimination Reporting and Redress System, and development of the National HIV Workplace Policy (ESSJ 2019). The 2017 MOHW Report on the HIV/STI Programme26 indicates that in 2017, an estimated 34 000 Jamaicans were living with HIV, with 1 197 newly reported cases for that year. Of those living with HIV, a higher prevalence was noted among at-risk groups including female sex workers, men who have sex with men, transgender persons, homeless persons and inmates. The largest proportion of newly diagnosed 25 MOH annual epidemiological profile 2015–2017 26 https://www.moh.gov.jm/wp- content/uploads/2019/03/FINAL-NHP-Annual- Report-2017.pdf 33 | P a g e

persons was in the 20–29 age cohort (26.0 cause of death in the Caribbean. It is per cent), followed by the 30–39 age therefore important to promote lifestyles cohort, (24.0 per cent). More than half (61.0 that reduce the general risk of developing per cent) of those living with HIV reside in non-communicable diseases. For Jamaica, urban parishes. Budgetary allocations to the the number of deaths from diabetes, HIV/AIDS response was $1.95 billion in hypertensive diseases, heart disease and 2017. The M&E component of the National cancer have been trending upwards over the HIV/STI Programme was subsumed into period 2014–2017. The total death from the Strategic Information component to these diseases have increased from 9 239 in inform and improve strategy and monitor 2014 to 9 773 deaths in 2017, representing progress. 46.8 per cent and 52.6 per cent of total deaths for 2014 and 2017, respectively.27 During the reporting period, improvements It is approximated that in 2019 the leading were noted in the management and cause of death in Jamaica continued to be distribution of anti-retroviral drugs (ARV). non-communicable diseases. The leading There were no stock outs during the year, cause of death for women in 2019 were owing to improved forecasting. diabetes, cerebrovascular diseases, and Additionally, an ARV tool was developed hypertensive diseases. For men, the leading to support the process of ensuring that there causes were external causes, were no stock outs. Improvement in cerebrovascular diseases, and diabetes procurement efficiencies through the GOJ’s mellitus (Figure 2). E-Procurement System also facilitated the more efficient acquisition of supplies. Figure 2 Mortality Rate for Select Non-communicable Diseases (Source: Ministry of Health) To expand delivery of services, the MOHW piloted the deployment of lay providers to Jamaica’s plan to combat the rise of non- provide one-to-one support to their peers at communicable diseases is guided by the treatment sites, and work as members of the National Action Plan for the Prevention and treatment team. A Treatment Site Control of NCDs in Jamaica 2013–2018. Its Monitoring Team was also launched in main aim is to reduce the burden of 2017 to conduct audits and provide recommendations on corrective measures. 34 | P a g e A Peer Navigation System was also rolled out in January 2017 to link persons to health-care systems, identify and reduce barriers to care, and provide health education to influence health-related behaviours and attitudes. Currently non-communicable disease, according to the World Health Organization (2018), is the leading cause of death worldwide. The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) reported that non-communicable diseases are the leading 27 Statistical Institute of Jamaica. 2019. Demographic Statistics 2018

preventable morbidity and disability, as safety and transport efficiency as well as well as avoidable premature morbidity due reduce the cost of administering road to non-communicable diseases by 25.0 per transport. The Act includes measures such cent by 2025. Interventions that support the as requiring potential learner drivers to national plan address risk reduction, health complete a road code test prior to the promotion, governance, and capacity issuance of a provisional licence, as well as building. The Jamaica Moves programme increasing the fines for traffic offences aims to tackle non-communicable diseases including those that could result in by promoting a healthy lifestyle in the key fatalities. settings: school, work, and community. The IDB Health Systems Strengthening for the The Ministry of Health and Wellness has Prevention and Care in the Management of adopted a ‘mental health in all’ policy NCDs programme was initiated in 2019, approach with the formulation of the draft with the aim of consolidating integrated National Mental Health Policy, as well as health networks, and improving the Implementation of the Mental Health management, quality and efficiency in Action Plan 2013–2020. These instruments handling NCD health-related issues. promote mental health and well-being toward reductions in the rate of suicide. As noted above, external causes remain a Broad coverage and affordable access to major cause of death among the population, health services is a crucial aspect of particularly for men. Among this ensuring a healthy population. This subcategory, Jamaica has aimed to reduce includes ensuring equitable access for the premature mortality from suicide and road most vulnerable. For the year 2018, traffic accidents in alignment with national approximately 18.4 per cent of Jamaicans development targets. The suicide rate for had health insurance. Coverage was 18.9 Jamaica was 2.2 per 100 000 in 2018, which per cent in 2015. Persons in the two lowest was much lower than the global average of wealth quintiles had health insurance 10.6. per 100 000. The rate of road traffic coverage of less than 10.0 per cent each. deaths per 100 000 has trended upwards Only 4.0 per cent of the poorest quintile had however, from 12.2 to 15.9 in 2019.28 A coverage compared with 40.8 per cent for national campaign with a target to decrease the wealthiest quintile (JSLC 2018). the number of road fatalities to under 300 is ongoing. However, the number of road In terms of the delivery of health services, fatalities have increased from 331 in 2014 in 2018, the number of health-care workers to 432 in 2020, representing an increase of per 10 000 was 11.91 for nursing approximately 30.0 per cent relative to professionals, 4.39 for General Medical 2014. Measures to improve the safety of Practitioners, 1.46 for Midwifery Jamaican roads include plans to invest Professionals, 1.25 for specialist medical US$1.0 million to upgrade the country’s practitioners, 0.39 for Dental Assistants, road traffic signal system in the Kingston 0.28 for Dentists and 0.17 for Pharmacists Metropolitan Area during 2020/21 fiscal (MOHW). The number of health-care year;29 as well as the finalisation of the facilities as at 2020 was 614, inclusive of Road Traffic Act (2018) to be tabled in 236 Pharmacies, 34 Hospitals and 344 Parliament. The Act aims to improve road Health Centres. The distribution of these health-care facilities can be seen in Figure 28 National Road Safety Council, http://www.nationalroadsafetycouncil.org.jm/statist 29 JIS source: https://jis.gov.jm/kma-road-traffic- ics/reports/index.html signals-to-be-upgraded/ 35 | P a g e

3. As of 2018, Jamaica has an 89.2 per cent target of 95.0 per cent. The birth immunization rate (people immunized with registration rate was 99.3 per cent as at all six vaccines) which is below the national 2016 (JSLC 2018). Figure 3 Distribution of Health Facilities of All essential for improving its capacity. With Types (Source: PIOJ) support from the National Health Fund, six hospitals and health centres were upgraded The Jamaican government in cooperation at a cost of $500.0 million, and 10 health with the Pan American Health Organization centres were refurbished through the IDP conducted a study to identify recommended Policy investment loans. The amount of actions to ensure equitable and efficient new development assistance that was provision of health services towards directed to the health sector includes universal health for all. Given the low US$115.75 million in 2020, with US$100.0 health insurance coverage, a National million being in the form of loans while the Health Insurance Plan was drafted30 remainder consisted of grants. This through a consultative process, which will represented an increase from the US$22.1 form the framework for transitioning to million in new official development universal insurance coverage for the assistance (ODA) in 2019, all of which was population. In 2019, there were efforts to in the form of grants (ESSJ 2019). improve efficiencies at health centres by reducing wait times and increasing the drug Jamaica became party to the World Health subsidies for pharmaceuticals and Organization’s Framework Convention on improving the reach for benefit Tobacco Control (FCTC) in 2013 and programmes such as the Jamaica Drug for reported on progress in its implementation the Elderly Programme (JADEP). during the VNR 2018, and has continued efforts to implement the Convention. Ensuring the health-care sector is adequately funded through both domestic Based on the multi-sectoral nature of the financing and foreign development aid is FCTC, various means of stakeholder 30 Green Paper 2019 36 | P a g e

consultation were employed, through 2020. This seeks to incorporate provisions which several ministries, departments and under the FCTC, which were not addressed agencies were engaged to ensure effective under the existing Regulations, including: implementation and enforcement as well as capacity building. Consultation was also - Article 5.3, which regulates the had with international stakeholders interaction of government officials with the including the Convention Secretariat, tobacco industry; and PAHO/WHO, and civil society bodies such as the Jamaica Coalition for Tobacco - Article 13, which speaks to the full and Control (JCTC). mandatory prohibition on tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship. Some of the enforcement activities over the reporting period included: A Joint Select Committee of Parliament has been established to review the Tobacco - Increased collaboration with the private Control Bill. The Committee has taken a sector and business establishments, consultative approach to reviewing the Bill including bars and restaurants, with a and has invited stakeholders to make view to enforcing the regulations within submissions in relation to the Bill. workplaces, including erecting “No Following presentation of the submissions, Smoking” signage. the Committee will discuss recommendations to be adopted and make a - Monitoring and inspection of determination regarding the final restaurants and bars, including provisions to be adopted in the Bill. ‘smoking lounges’, through the Public Health Inspectors to ensure full Conclusion and Outlook compliance and enforcement. Jamaica has national plans and strategies, - Ongoing engagement of and with targets that guide strategic action in collaboration with ‘authorized officers’ the health sector. Jamaica has made named under the Regulations, including progress on several of the SDG targets the Police, Customs Officers, Public inclusive of the infant mortality rate, Health Inspectors, Medical Officers reducing the spread of non-communicable (Health) and Inspectors appointed diseases and promoting a healthy lifestyle. under the Standards Act. There is need for improvement on the maternal mortality rate, and the reduction - Specific engagement of the Police High of traffic accidents. A consistent increase in Command, which had previously non-communicable diseases will threaten expressed an interest in having the the well-being of the population and MOHW assist with sensitization of the increase demands on health services. It will new recruits in understanding and therefore be essential to continue and enforcing the Regulations. strengthen programmes that promote healthy lifestyles. - Sensitization workshops with the support of the JCTC. There is also a need to increase the number of facilities for HIV testing and to reduce Additionally, Jamaica is at an advanced the stigma associated with HIV. Another stage in its efforts to put in place concern is the low coverage of health comprehensive tobacco control legislation, insurance for the general population, which will bring the country in full compliance with all its obligations under 37 | P a g e the WHO FCTC. The Tobacco Control Bill was tabled in Parliament on December 1,

particularly the most vulnerable. Ongoing 4.6) Ensure all youth and a substantial portion discussions on the provision of universal of adults achieve literacy and numeracy basic health coverage is intended to remedy this situation in the long term. There is a 4.7) Ensure all learners acquire the knowledge need to fund such a social protection and skills needed to promote sustainable programme. This, as well as the need to development. improve critical infrastructure in the health sector will increase the demand for 4.A) Build and upgrade facilities that are child, financing to the sector in a context of disability, and gender sensitive. narrowing fiscal space given the current economic climate as the world rebounds 4.B) Substantially expand globally the number from the COVID-19 pandemic. of scholarships available to developing countries. Ensure Inclusive and equitable quality 4.C) Substantially increase the number of qualified teachers. education and promote lifelong learning __________________________________ opportunities for all Jamaica’s goal of empowering its citizens through the provision of world-class Targets: education and training is closely aligned to 4.1) Ensure all girls and boys complete free, SDG 4 of ensuring inclusive, quality equitable and quality primary and secondary education. This necessitates high levels of education leading to effective learning gross enrolment rates for the cohort (3–24 outcomes years). In 2015, the gross enrolment rate 4.2) Ensure all girls and boys have access to was 71.4 per cent, which rose to 77.0 per quality early childhood development care and cent in the 2018/2019 academic year (ESSJ pre-primary education 2019). The level of participation in 4.3) Equal access for all women and men to organized learning for the early childhood affordable and quality technical, vocational and levels (3–5 years old) in 2018 is measured tertiary education by the proportion of children that were enrolled in either early education facilities 4.4) Substantially increase the number of youth or primary education. For that year, gross and adults who have relevant skills for enrolment among this cohort was at 99.1 employment, decent jobs and entrepreneurship per cent (JSLC 2018). This represented an almost universal enrolment rate, which has 4.5) Eliminate gender disparities in education remained relatively unchanged over the and ensure equal access to all levels of period 2015–2019. education and training for the vulnerable Despite these high enrolment rates at the early childhood level children from lower- income households are more likely to not be enrolled at the secondary level. An indicator of this is the 14.0 per cent of children from the two lowest income quintiles, aged 15–16 who were not enrolled in secondary education compared with 0.0 per cent from the wealthiest quintile (JSLC 2018). In order to continue boosting enrolment rates and reduce the 38 | P a g e

financial burden on parents by reducing the Percentage Mastery 100.0% cost of attending schools, which is often prohibitive, the government continued to 80.0% implement tuition-free access at the public primary and secondary level. 60.0% While enrolment rates are a good indicator 40.0% of the inclusivity of the educational sector, effective learning outcomes such as the 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 literacy rate and the achievement of Year proficiency in subjects such as Mathematics and English Language are Numeracy test-Girls essential in measuring the quality of the education system. In 2015, the proportion Numeracy test-Boys of children achieving mastery in the grade 4 literacy test was 86.3 per cent while the Literacy test-Girls proportion of students achieving mastery in the numeracy test was 63.6 per cent. For the Literacy test-Boys academic year 2017/2018, the mastery rate for the literacy test fell slightly to 82.8 per Figure 4 Literacy and Numeracy Grade 4 Mastery Girls vs cent while the mastery for the numeracy Boys 2012–2017 (Source: MOEYI) test rose slightly to 65.6 per cent. For both tests, girls continued to outperform boys. For the grade 11 Caribbean Secondary For the 2017/2018 academic year, girls had Schools Examinations (CSEC), the an average mastery rate of 90.3 per cent proportion of students scoring at least a compared with 75.5 per cent for boys on the grade 3 in both Mathematics and English literacy test. For the numeracy test, girls Language improved in 2017/2018 had an average mastery rate of 72.5 per cent academic year relative to 2015/2016. For compared with 59.0 per cent for boys. the 2017/2018 period, this proportion was (Figure 4) 68.7 per cent and 46.5 per cent, up from 65.7 per cent and 41.0 per cent, The Primary Exit Profile (PEP) was respectively, for Math and English in introduced in 2019, and replaces the Grade 2015/2016 based on the MOEYI education Six Achievement Test (GSAT) as the statistics. Of note, for the year 2018 some secondary school placement test. The 50.9 per cent of the prime working age profile is based on a series of assessments population had no CSEC passes (MOEYI which commences in Grade 4 and ends at educational statistics 2015–2018). Grade 6. PEP places emphasis on the acquisition of 21st century skills, which Efforts to further instil an appreciation for include critical thinking, creativity and sustainable development, including human communication. It assesses student’s rights and environmental sustainability, knowledge and is intended to provide a included the introduction of courses such as complete profile of the students’ academic Environmental Science at the Caribbean and critical thinking capabilities at the end Advanced Proficiency Examination of the primary-level education (ESSJ (CAPE) level. Critical issues relating to 2019). sustainable development were also incorporated into the national curriculum, as well as through programmes such as the Health and Family Life Education and the implementation of the Family Life 39 | P a g e

Education and the Citizenship Education This represents a marginal decline in the Programme.31 proportion of trained teachers in both primary and secondary schools. The In 2015, the number of Jamaicans that were government has however in the period afforded scholarship and training attempted to improve the quality of teachers opportunities through ODA was 282, at a available, particularly in the STEM field, total value of US$4.8 million. For the year through the provision of 440 STEM 2019, development assistance in education teachers’ scholarships.32 These efforts have through scholarships declined to US$3.7 also been aided through the provision of million, however the number of recipients needs-based professional development increased to 612 (ESSJ 2019). The programs for mathematics coordinators, proportion of qualified teachers available specialists, and coaches, where 93 coaches declined over the period post-adoption of were trained in the first quarter of 2020.33 the SDGs. In the year 2015/2016, the proportion of trained teachers in early The quality of the educational system is childhood, primary and secondary schools also a function of the level of infrastructure was 78.0 per cent, 93.1 per cent and 83.4 available to teachers, students, and per cent, respectively. In the 2018/2019 administrators. In 2016, the proportion of academic year, the proportion of trained primary and upper secondary schools with teachers was 79.0 per cent, 91.0 per cent access to electricity was 93.9 per cent and and 81.0 per cent for early childhood, 100 per cent, respectively. In 2018, the primary and secondary schools, proportions were 99.9 per cent and 100 per respectively (Figure 5). cent for primary and upper secondary schools, respectively (UN STAT). This 95 represents efforts to ensure more facilities are attached to the grid and brings Jamaica 90 closer to 100 per cent connectivity for schools. The availability of infrastructure Percentage 85 to support students with disabilities is an area that requires improvement. In 2017, 80 only 11.7 per cent and 13.2 per cent of primary and secondary schools, 75 respectively, had adequate infrastructure for the persons with disabilities.34 70 Primary Secondary Early Conclusion and Outlook Childhood Although Jamaica has achieved a high level of primary enrolment (nearly universal), 2015/2016 2018/2019 there are challenges with net enrolment. Challenges are evident with the quality of Figure 5 Proportion of Trained Teachers at Selected outcomes at the primary and secondary School Levels 2015/2016–2018/2019 (Source: MOEYI Educational Statistics 2018–2019) teachers#:~:text=JIS%3A%20The%20Ministry%2 0of%20Education,the%202017%2F18%20academi 31 MOEYI, Education Ministry Focuses on c%20year.). Resocialization at Grade 7, 33 MOEYI first quarter Performance report 2020 https://moey.gov.jm/education-ministry-focuses- 34 Source: Ministry of Health and Wellness resocialisation-grade-7 32 (MOEY, https://moey.gov.jm/440-scholarships- 40 | P a g e awarded-stem-student-

level. These concerns include the level of Achieve Gender equality mastery in numeracy at the grade 4 level, as and empower all women well as the gap in performance between boys and girls at the primary level. This is and girls even more important given the emphasis that is placed globally on STEM areas and Targets therefore early development in numeracy is 5.1) End all forms of discrimination against all urgent to support the objectives of STEM women and girls education. The level of adult literacy however remains high. Gender-based 5.2) Eliminate all forms of violence against differences still exist in in performance and women and girls in the public and private outcomes. This includes the relative spheres underperformance of boys in both primary and secondary education. It is expected that 5.3) Eliminate harmful practices such as child, with the continued training of teachers and early and forced marriage and female genital the continued revamping of the primary mutilation. curriculum and exams further progress will be achieved in delivering quality education 5.4) Recognize and value unpaid care and in the future. domestic work It is expected that the onset of COVID-19 5.5) Ensure women’s full and effective will disproportionately affect children in participation and equal opportunities for lower quintiles due to uneven access to leadership at all levels of decision-making devices and internet connection that might show in lower attendance rates for online 5.6) Ensure universal access to sexual and classes which can potentially affect long- reproductive health and reproductive rights term learning outcomes. Another concern is the low level of educational achievement 5.a) Undertake reforms to give women equal for the prime working age population, as rights to economic resources Jamaica seeks to empower its labour force. Lastly, investment in facilities that are 5.b) Enhance the use of technology, in disability friendly and safe also requires particular information and communication improvement to ensure inclusiveness and technology to promote women empowerment access for persons with disabilities. 5.c) Adopt and strengthen sound policies and legislation for the promotion of gender equality. __________________________________ Jamaica has made significant gains in the area of gender equality and women’s empowerment. These areas of progress have been assisted by several institution- building initiatives and legislative measures 41 | P a g e

of the GOJ. The national gender a 10-year national strategic action plan in mechanism, the Bureau of Women’s December 2017 with specific targets to Affairs was rebranded as the Bureau of eliminate gender based violence. The Gender Affairs (BGA) in 2016 by Cabinet National Strategic Action Plan to Eliminate Decision No. 8/16, to ensure a more Gender-Based Violence in Jamaica (NSAP- inclusive approach to combat violence, GBV) 2017–2027, is premised on five advance gender equality, and promote a strategic areas; prevention, protection, gender sensitive approach to achieving intervention, legal procedures and balanced economic growth. This focus is protocols for data collection. It is aligned ongoing in situating initiatives within the with Vision 2030 Jamaica and the broader gender and development paradigm, Sustainable Development Goals, as well as which includes the engagement of men and the National Policy for Gender Equality. boys regarding rigid gender norms, power This Plan represents a coordinated and relations, gender-based violence, and systematic approach to addressing the issue inequalities. The GOJ in 2016 also of gender-based violence in Jamaica. appointed a minister with specific focus on gender affairs. The Eighth Periodic Report Under the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms Understanding the importance of extending of Discrimination Against Women basic human rights to the most vulnerable, (CEDAW), 2018, notes that Jamaica’s Jamaica continued its obligations under Gender Development Index (GDI) is 0.719 previously ratified conventions that have for women and 0.738 for men. The overall gender policy implications such as the GDI value was 0.975, indicating medium to Equal Remuneration Convention, high equality in achievements between men Discrimination (Employment and and women. The Gender Inequality Index Occupation) Convention and the Domestic which measures gender-based inequalities Workers Convention ratified in 2016. in the dimensions of reproductive health, empowerment, and economic activity ranks The crime rate has been volatile over the Jamaica at 93 of 159 countries. The report period 2015–2019. There has been highlighted interventions through progress in reducing violence against education that are aimed at promoting women however, with 33.0 per cent (2 380) gender equality such as Standards of all crime victims being women in 2019, Curriculum, and, the Health and Family falling from 38.0 per cent (3 336) in 2015 Life Education (HFLE) Programme offered (JCF Crime Statistics). Legislative at the primary level (Grade 1–6) and at the instruments in force to curb gender-based Secondary level (Grade 7–9), as well as the violence/violence against women or girls Schools Education Programme that raises include the Domestic Violence Act of 1995 awareness on gender-specific issues (amended in 2004), the Offences Against including gender equality, female the Person Act (2010), the Sexual Offences empowerment, and gender based violence Act (2011) and the more recent Sexual both in educational institutions and the Harassment Bill, which was originally wider society. The Jamaica Broadcasting tabled in 2015 and is awaiting approval. Commission’s monitoring strategy, which includes measures to address the portrayal The ongoing commitment to gender of violence and sexual violence in the equality is demonstrated in the media was also highlighted. At the time of development and approval of Jamaica’s the report, legislative revisions were under National Policy for Gender Equality (NPGE) in 2011. Further, the GOJ launched 42 | P a g e

way to address the issue of domestic - Development of the BGA website violence. supported by the hand over of an online GBV Platform. At the Twenty-fifth anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women and - Increase in government budgetary adoption of the Beijing Declaration and allocations for the National Gender Platform for Action (1995) convened in Machinery’s priority programmes. 2020, Jamaica reported on its commitments as party to the Declaration. The report - The ratification of Conventions such as highlighted plans to review the National C189 and ILO’s Decent Work Agenda, to Gender Equality Policy (2011) during strengthen policy and legislative 2019/2020 to address gaps and emerging frameworks for the empowerment of issues. In recognition of the need to address women and protection of workers. issues affecting men and boys, a Special Service Desk was established at the Bureau - Alignment of sectoral policies in the of Gender Affairs. Major achievements35 ministries, departments and agencies noted from the review process were: (MDAs) of the GOJ with the SDGs, including SDG 5 (Gender equality and the - Legislative review for equality and non- empowerment of women). discrimination under the law and timely access to justice for women and girls. - New and Emerging Policy Frameworks – International Migration and Development - Development of a Gender Mainstreaming Policy, the Water Sector Policy, National Manual for the Public Sector informed by Poverty Reduction Policy and Programme the National Policy for Gender Equality and the Social Protection Strategy. (NPGE). - Progressive increase in the number of - A Gender Advisory Council (GAC) women in politics and decision- established to oversee the implementation making/Boards & Commissions/Non- of the National Strategic Action Plan to traditional sectors. Eliminate Gender-Based Violence (NSAP- GBV) 2017–2027 and the NPGE. Challenges were noted in financing, particularly to the institutional framework - The launch of a pilot Gender for the advancement of women, and non- Ambassadors Programme (GAP) to engage discrimination under the law and access to secondary and tertiary level students. justice, due to a reduction in donor support. Challenges were also noted with negative - Preparation of a Resource social norms and gender stereotypes, lack Guide/Directory of Services for women. of understanding of women empowerment and gender mainstreaming, slow uptake of - Active social media engagement that the gender mainstreaming in the public created visibility and accessibility to the sector and fragmented approaches to services offered by BGA Instagram & addressing the issue of gender-based Facebook pages. violence. The Women’s Health Survey conducted in 2016, indicates that 35 Jamaica – National Review Report throughout their lifetime, approximately Implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995) and the outcomes of the twenty-third special session of the General Assembly (2000), p. 10 43 | P a g e

28.0 per cent of Jamaican women have and outreach, which involves the experienced some form of physical and/or distribution of contraceptives though a sexual violence by a male intimate partner. collaboration with the Jamaica Family Physical violence was experienced by just Planning Association (FAMPLAN) and over a quarter of Jamaican women in their targeted educational campaigns for lifetime, while approximately 8.0 per cent adolescents and the most vulnerable. of women experienced sexual violence. Emotional violence was also experienced In response to measures to improve the by a significant proportion of women. health of women and girls, the review Other prevalent forms of violence included report on the Beijing Declaration and Plan economic violence and sexual harassment. of Action notes the continuation of the Measures to address these challenges PROMAC, which provides critical care and included: increased advocacy for funding, neonatal services for mothers and children. public education, implementation of Under the Newborn and Emergency programmes that address gender Obstetric Care (Component 1) was the stereotypes and the implementation of the establishment of nine maternal and abovementioned NSAP-GBV (2017– neonatal High Dependency Units (HDUs) 2027). across five referral hospitals in Jamaica. A maternal risk assessment score-card was Practises such as early, child and forced also developed to assist health-care workers marriage are harmful for the development to standardize the approach taken to of girls and is often linked to poverty and conduct risk assessments and to, ultimately, low labour force participation. The Jamaica impact the level of risk perception within Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey the target population. Additionally, 157 conducted in 2011 provided estimates on nurses/midwives and 173 Community the proportion of women married before 15 Health Aids were trained in maternal and years old and 18 years old. For that year, 7.9 child health responsibilities at a primary per cent of women aged 20–24 years were health care level to promote improved married or in a union before the age of 18 health outcomes for high-risk women and years and 1.4 per cent before the age of 15. their babies. Reproductive health problems, such as Provision of contraceptive products by the STIs, pregnancy-related illness and death, National Family Planning Board expands place a burden on the health of adolescents access to contraceptives. There is broad- and women of reproductive age. Jamaica’s based access for women and girls to reproductive health survey of 2008 showed primary health services including high rates of unplanned pregnancies, high contraceptive and HIV/STI related serves. rates of pregnancies among adolescent girls In 2017, the Ministry of Health and and a large portion of adolescent girls Wellness rolled out a vaccination stating that they currently faced an unmet programme that offered the HPV vaccine to contraceptive need. According to the 2008 girls between the ages of 9 and 14 years, as health survey, approximately 18.0 per cent a proactive measure to combat cervical of all live births were to adolescent girls. cancer. To tackle these issues, the GOJ developed the National Strategic Plan for Sexual and Jamaica also piloted the regional Every Reproductive Health and HIV (2014– Caribbean Woman Every Caribbean Child 2019). A major priority area is prevention (CARIWAC) programme. The programme has four pillars: reduction in violence 44 | P a g e

against women, cervical cancer, mother to organizations to develop and deliver child transmission of HIV and teenage programmes that incorporate the unique pregnancies. challenges of female and male entrepreneurs. This includes the promotion Public awareness campaigns were also of sustainable and productive executed, focusing on pregnancy, nutrition, entrepreneurial activities and generating physical activity, mental illness inter alia. income among disadvantaged women, In addition to public awareness campaigns, particularly among those living in poverty. gender responsive training for health- Support services include the provision of service providers was conducted, including grant funding, building technical capacity gender focal points in the MOHW who and expanding women entrepreneurship were sensitized to gender mainstreaming from subsistence type activities, thereby methodologies. Training was also offered creating opportunities for growth.37 to health-care workers and staff of the NFPB in the provision of services and To ensure that future policy in both the referrals to survivors of gender-based political and private economic spheres take violence. into consideration the realities of women, it is essential to provide equitable gender The Adolescent Protocol for Managing representation at the decision-making level. Teenagers was also developed by the In 2018, all the mayors in local government MOHW to guide health-care workers on were male, while 42.9 per cent of local gender sensitive ways to provide care to government CEOs were females. In 2021, girls and boys. The Teenhub initiative was all the majors are male while 35.7 per cent launched in 2017 as part of a collaborative of the CEOs are female. Despite this effort between a non-governmental decline in female representation at the local organization, MOH, and the MOEYI, to government level, at the parliamentary provide counselling, STD testing and level and at the senate, progress has been educational services to teenagers. made in improving representation. As International Development Partners also shown in Figure 6, in the September 15, provided funding toward the reduction of 2020 swearing in, a record number of eight teen pregnancies in Jamaica.36 women (38 per cent) were appointed as senators and a record number of female Measures have also been taken to expand Members of Parliament (MPs), 18 out of 63 women’s access to economic resources. (28.5 per cent) were elected. The GOJ approved the revision of the MSME Policy and Implementation Plan outcomes of the twenty-third special session of the (2018), to foster a culture of General Assembly (2000), pp 78-85 entrepreneurship, which includes a gender 37 Ibid., pp 17–20 component that ensures that businesses are gender sensitive. The objectives of the 45 | P a g e gender component are to identify factors that constrain the participation of women in entrepreneurship and enterprises, develop appropriate strategies to address these constraints, and build the capacity of 36 Jamaica – National Review Report Implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995) and the