Canada Invests CAN$110 Million to Improve Capacity of Caribbean States to Deal with Transnational Crime

Canada is investing Can$110 million to strengthen the capacity of Caribbean countries, including Jamaica, to combat transnational organised crime and address emerging security threats.

High Commissioner of Canada to Jamaica, His Excellency Mark Berman, said the investment, delivered through Global Affairs Canada’s Anti-Crime Capacity-Building Program (ACCBP), underscores his country’s commitment to regional security.

“Jamaica is the largest recipient of ACCBP support in the Caribbean, reflecting both the scale of our partnership and Jamaica’s leadership role in advancing regional security,” he said.

Mr. Berman was speaking at the final planning conference for Exercise Event Horizon 2027, which was held at the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) Caribbean Military Academy from October 26 to 27.

He noted that transnational organised crime continues to pose significant challenges across the region, with criminal networks exploiting maritime and air routes to facilitate the trafficking of drugs, firearms and persons, as well as cybercrime and other illicit activities.

These threats, he said, undermine security and democratic resilience, while harming legitimate trade and limiting economic opportunities for citizens and communities.

The High Commissioner emphasised that addressing these challenges requires coordinated regional responses, supported by strong partnerships and investments in the capabilities of national institutions.

Meanwhile, Mr. Berman informed that Canada also supports anti-crime capacity-building initiatives in other countries, including Costa Rica and Guatemala, recognising that criminal networks operate across borders and require collaborative approaches to combat them.

Mr. Berman commended the JDF for its leadership in bringing regional partners together, building capabilities and advancing practical solutions to the complex security challenges facing the Caribbean.

“Canada’s security partnership with Jamaica is long-standing, and it is based on predictability and trust. We are continually evolving to meet new realities,” he said, while acknowledging the technical leadership of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime in strengthening maritime security and regional cooperation.

The High Commissioner underscored that sustained collaboration among regional governments, security institutions and international partners remains critical to countering organised crime and protecting the region’s security and economic prospects.