Attorney General Wilkin Promotes Collaborative Partnerships at UN Crime Prevention Commission

The Honourable Garth Wilkin, Attorney General and Minister of Justice and Legal Affairs of Saint Kitts and Nevis, addressed the 34th Session of the United Nations Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (CCPCJ) in Vienna, Austria, on May 19, 2025. His address focused on the critical need for enhanced international partnerships to strengthen the administration of justice within small island developing states (SIDS), highlighting the unique challenges these nations face in combating transnational crime and advocating for collaborative solutions.

Attorney General Wilkin emphasized the inherent vulnerabilities of small jurisdictions like Saint Kitts and Nevis, which often lack the necessary resources and capacity to effectively address complex criminal threats such as drug and gun trafficking. He stressed that these “serious capacity constraints” necessitate external support to bolster their crime-fighting efforts. He underscored the importance of collaborative partnerships with larger nations and international organizations like the UNODC to provide technical assistance, training, and knowledge sharing to enhance their criminal justice systems’ effectiveness. This call for collaborative action formed the core of his message, urging the international community to recognize the interconnected nature of crime and the shared responsibility in addressing it.

Despite these challenges, Attorney General Wilkin highlighted the significant progress made by Saint Kitts and Nevis in reforming its justice system. He detailed the substantial legislative efforts undertaken by the government, noting the passage of 83 pieces of legislation – 72 of which have already been enacted – since October 2022. This legislative surge includes landmark criminal justice reforms such as the Plea Negotiations and Agreements Act, the Judge Alone Trials Act, the Voluntary Bill of Indictment Act, and the Justice Interference Prevention Act. These acts are designed to streamline court procedures, enhance efficiency, and protect the integrity of the judicial process, demonstrating a commitment to modernizing the legal framework.

Attorney General Wilkin reported a notable decline in serious crime over the past seven months, attributing this positive trend to the implemented legislative reforms and institutional changes. He acknowledged the crucial link between legislative action and tangible improvements in crime statistics. However, he cautioned that sustaining these gains requires sustained investment in institutional capacity building. This includes professional training for law enforcement and judicial personnel, modernization of case management systems, and the development of victim-centered services. He emphasized that long-term commitment to these areas is essential for building a robust and resilient criminal justice system.

The call for international collaboration extended beyond legislative reform. Attorney General Wilkin invited UN Member States and the UNODC to engage in knowledge exchange and shared strategies to develop sustainable systems that can adapt to the ever-evolving nature of crime. He stressed the importance of learning from best practices and sharing experiences to create resilient systems capable of effectively countering emerging criminal threats. This collaborative approach recognizes the shared challenges faced by nations in addressing transnational crime and emphasizes the importance of collective action.

Furthermore, the attorney general highlighted the strides made by Saint Kitts and Nevis in combating corruption. He pointed to the activation of the Integrity Commission and the establishment of the Special Prosecutor’s Office as evidence of the government’s commitment to promoting transparency and accountability. He declared that a “new culture which condemns corruption” has emerged in the Federation, signaling a shift in societal attitudes towards corruption and a commitment to upholding ethical governance. This emphasis on anti-corruption measures showcases the holistic approach to justice reform, addressing both criminal activity and underlying systemic issues that contribute to it.

In concluding his address, Attorney General Wilkin reiterated Saint Kitts and Nevis’ dedication to Sustainable Development Goal 16, which focuses on promoting peace, justice, and strong institutions. He affirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering a justice system that upholds fundamental rights, ensures accountability, and contributes meaningfully to the global pursuit of sustainable development. This commitment reflects the recognition that a robust and equitable justice system is essential for achieving broader development goals and creating a more just and peaceful society.

The participation of Saint Kitts and Nevis in the CCPCJ and the message delivered by Attorney General Wilkin demonstrate the nation’s active role in regional and global justice reform. By showcasing its legislative achievements and advocating for international collaboration, Saint Kitts and Nevis positions itself as a model for other small island developing states and a valuable partner in the global effort to strengthen justice systems and promote the rule of law. The call for partnership and the commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 16 underscore the importance of collective action in addressing complex global challenges and building a more just and secure world.