Dear Editor,
As we ushered in 2025, it is imperative that we reflect on the pressing lessons from our region’s most harrowing crises, particularly Trinidad and Tobago’s gang turmoil and Haiti’s struggles with organized crime. These challenges, while distinct in their contexts, underscore a shared truth: organized violence is not just a symptom of societal decay but also a cause, perpetuating cycles of poverty, fear, and instability.
Trinidad’s gang crisis highlights how unchecked violence can destabilize communities and erode public trust in institutions. Similarly, Haiti’s plight illustrates how systemic crime, coupled with weak governance, fuels corruption and societal fragmentation. Both cases demand urgent, comprehensive approaches that prioritize justice, economic inclusion, and robust community engagement.
As we chart our way forward in 2025, an election year, let us heed these lessons, advocating and supporting policies that address root causes while fostering resilience and hope in our societies.
The recent declaration of a state of emergency in Trinidad due to escalating gang violence underscores a pressing issue facing our region. This development, coupled with Haiti’s ongoing gang crisis, offers valuable lessons for neighbouring nations like Guyana, where the potential for organized crime and governance failures must not be underestimated.
Trinidad’s struggles with gang violence stem from systemic socio-economic disparities that leave vulnerable communities exposed to exploitation. Similarly, Haiti’s crisis highlights the devastating consequences of weak governance, political instability, and poverty. In both cases, the erosion of state authority and the absence of viable opportunities have created fertile ground for criminal networks to thrive.
Guyana must heed these warnings and take proactive steps to address similar vulnerabilities within its borders. Strengthen-ing institutions and reducing corruption are vital for fostering public trust and ensuring the efficient delivery of services. Investing in education, job training, and community development is equally critical to providing at-risk youths with legitimate pathways to success.
Moreover, Guyana should prioritize law enforcement reform and community policing to bridge the gap between security forces and the public. Regional collaboration, intelligence sharing, and a unified approach to transnational crime are also essential for combating the broader scope of organized crime.
The crises in Trinidad and Haiti remind us of the steep price of inaction. Guyana has the opportunity to learn from these struggles and build a resilient society that addresses the root causes of crime and disenfranchisement. Let us act decisively, drawing strength from these lessons to ensure a secure and prosperous future for our nation.
Sincerely,
Keith Bernard
