Letter of the Day | Who protect di children when adults a call fi violence?

THE EDITOR Madam:

This is with reference to the recent public commentary on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) suggesting that children and teenagers involved in conflict with the law particularly those portrayed as aggressors in viral videos should be subjected to fatal police “shootouts” or immediate incarceration. This narrative is concerning.

Such statements not only disregard the fundamental rights of children, but also promote a dangerous normalisation of violence as a response to youth conflict. It is especially alarming to see members of the legal profession – who know, or ought to know, that children must not be housed with adults – advocating for them to be sent to prison “with big men” simply because they “act like big men.”

While we unequivocally denounce bullying and all forms of violence, we must emphasize that children regardless of their actions are entitled to protection, due process, and meaningful opportunities for rehabilitation. Responses rooted in harm and retribution undermine the very principles of justice and child protection that Jamaica is committed to uphold.

These sentiments reflect a troubling shift toward punitive and violent responses to children, rather than a commitment to understanding and addressing the underlying causes of youth conflict, including trauma, social inequities, and the absence of adequate support systems.

Adults, community leaders, and stakeholders need to exercise greater responsibility in public discourse, particularly when discussing issues involving children. The language we use and the solutions we promote shape societal attitudes and influence policy directions.

Several initiatives by civil society organisations offer restorative and preventative approaches. These include conflict resolution education, mediation, and access to psychosocial support services within schools and communities. Additionally, the Ministry of Justice & Constitutional Affairs’ Restorative Justice Unit continues to play a critical role, with child officers assigned to diversion matters in the Children’s Court.

A just society does not abandon its children to violence. We must be firm in addressing harmful behaviour, but our responses must always be humane, lawful, and guided by the best interests of the child.

AFRICKA STEPHENS

Fi We Children Foundation

astephens@fiwechildren.org