Jamaica Enabling Environment Baseline Snapshot

Jamaica’s enabling environment for civil society is supported by a democratic framework and protected by the 2011 Charter of Fundamental Rights and Freedoms. However, it faces growing challenges, including selective government engagement, hostile rhetoric from public officials, and efforts to delegitimise civil society and anti-corruption bodies. A Joint Select Committee of Parliament is currently reviewing proposed constitutional amendments. Despite civil society organisations (CSOs) submitting written recommendations in 2024/25, they have not yet been invited to present them in person, and there is no indication that their input is meaningfully being considered. 

Parliamentarians have publicly labelled CSOs as “criminal enablers” or “political”, triggering threatening online responses from supporters and contributing to a chilling effect on civic participation. With general elections expected by September 2025, political tensions are rising, and CSOs face increasing risks of intimidation, disinformation, and reputational attacks, further constraining civic space.