We Have Rights Too: A Deep Dive into Child Trafficking in Jamaica
- Winsome M. Sherrier Witter
- Jul 21
- 3 min read
A Timely & Powerful Conversation
The seventh episode of the Early Childhood Commission’s Child Rights Series 2025 tackled one of the most painful yet pressing issues facing our nation — child trafficking.
Guided by host Winsome Sherrier Witter, the discussion brought together expert voices working on the front lines of child protection in Jamaica:
Diane Gordon-Harrison, Children’s Advocate of Jamaica
Dr Warren A. Thompson, Director at the Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA)
Detective Sergeant Kevin Strachan, Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), Anti-Trafficking in Persons Unit
Together, they helped us understand the uncomfortable truths, dispel dangerous myths, and chart a way forward.
Missed the Live Episode?
What We Learned: A Community Issue Demanding Collective Action
Child trafficking is not just a law enforcement concern. It is a community issue. Every Jamaican, from parents and pastors to teachers and taxi drivers, has a role to play in preventing exploitation and protecting our youth.
Understanding the Realities of Child Trafficking in Jamaica
It’s Closer Than You Think
A child can be trafficked without ever leaving home. Movement is not required.
Children cannot legally consent to exploitation — not for sex, labour, or any other purpose.
Most traffickers are known to the child. It could be relatives, neighbours, and even trusted community members.
The Jamaican Landscape
Primary forms of trafficking locally:
Sexual exploitation (particularly of teenage girls)
Forced labour (including domestic servitude)
The JCF reports an average of four confirmed cases annually, with many more suspected.
Victims are often recruited online, through platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp.
Common Myths Busted
“Trafficking only happens to poor children.” – False
“It only involves sex.” – False
“Only strangers traffic children.” – False
“Children can agree to it.” – False
“It only happens across borders.” – False
The Role of Technology & Grooming
Traffickers use the internet to:
Build false relationships
Gain trust through flattery or fake identities
Even communicate directly with unsuspecting parents
Some victims are groomed over time, often through manipulation and rewards, until they feel trapped.
Emotional & Psychological Impact
Dr Thompson shared the long-term effects of trafficking on children:
Difficulty forming healthy relationships
Educational setbacks
Emotional dysregulation and trauma-based disorders
In some cases, victims become perpetrators — drawn back into trafficking networks due to trauma bonds and learned behaviour.
Laws Protecting Children
Jamaica has a strong legal foundation, including:
Trafficking in Persons (Prevention, Suppression and Punishment) Act
Sexual Offences Act (including grooming)
Child Care and Protection Act
Child Pornography Prevention Act
See more here
Yet as Diane Gordon-Harrison emphasised, the law must keep evolving to match the dynamic and deceptive nature of trafficking.
What Can You Do?
Teachers, Parents, Community Leaders:
Start early. Use child-friendly tools like books and comics.
Be alert. Look for changes in behaviour, secretive internet use, or unexplained gifts.
Speak up. Call 211 if you suspect something is wrong.
Public Education Must Continue
Public forums like this one are vital, but the work cannot stop there.
Agencies must collaborate with schools, churches, and youth groups to sustain awareness.
Resources for Awareness & Action
ONRTIP Resource Library – Free national and regional materials
Free Online Certificate Course – Heightening Awareness to Combat Human Trafficking
SafeSpot Helpline (888-723-3776) – 24/7 child and teen psychological support
Victim Services Branch – Counselling for survivors and their families
The Road to Recovery
Healing takes time. Support includes:
Long-term mental health care
Educational reintegration
Safe housing
Case management by CPFSA and partner agencies
A Survivors’ Handbook is also available as a guide for victims to understand their rights and regain their dignity and independence.
What’s Next?
🎉 2025 marks 20 years since Jamaica passed its landmark anti-trafficking legislation.
🗓 World Day Against Trafficking in Persons: 30 July
📢 TIP Week Observance: Final week of July
Final Thoughts: Every Voice Matters
Child trafficking is real. It is happening here, and we can stop it.
📣 Let’s:
Talk to our children.
Share the signs.
Raise the alarm.
Educate ourselves and each other.
“If you see something, say something. Every report could save a life.”
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🕊️ Let’s protect our children. Let’s end child trafficking in Jamaica. Together.
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