Jamaica: Briefing paper on the situation of human rights defenders

(Geneva) - Jamaica is scheduled to be reviewed at the 22nd session of the Universal Periodic Review in April 2015.

The 2014 UPR of Jamaica provides the government a platform to carry out pledges made during the 2012 election. On the ground, the situation remains dangerous for human rights defenders, who are often in danger of being killed or beaten, as well as being threatened.

Defenders of LGBTI rights face particularly brutal and elevated risks in the country, in spite of Prime Minister Simpson-Miller's acknowledgement of the State's poor track record in protecting members of the LGBTI community.

Key recommendations that should be made to Jamaica at the UPR in 2015 include that the Government should enact and implement specific laws, policies and measures to recognise and protect human rights defenders, as well as immediately repealing section 76 of the Offences against the Person Act,

This Briefing Paper on the Situation of Human Rights Defenders in Jamaica is intended to assist States and other stakeholders to formulate questions and recommendations regarding the protection of human rights defenders during the UPR.

For further information about the Briefing Paper or for any assistance or advice in the formulation of recommendations, please contact ISHR's Eleanor Openshaw, on [email protected].