Cannabis Trafficking Remains a Concern in Barbados

Despite decriminalizing small quantities of cannabis in March 2022, Barbados continues to be a major hub for the illegal drug trade. Cannabis shipments from Jamaica often conceal the drug in freight and containers, with local consumption steady and tourists contributing to demand by paying inflated prices.

Jamaican shipments account for the majority of cannabis entering the country.
The drug is then distributed to local dealers and tourists, who flock to the island’s popular beaches and resorts.

Cyber Crimes on the Rise

While cybercrime has not yet become a major concern in Barbados, authorities are warning that the threat is increasing. As more businesses and individuals move online, the risk of hacking, phishing, and other forms of cyber attacks is growing.

The government has launched initiatives to improve cybersecurity awareness and provide training for law enforcement officials.
To combat this trend, the country needs to enhance its online security measures to protect citizens’ personal data.

Judicial System Faces Challenges

The judicial system in Barbados is often criticized for being slow and cumbersome. Prosecutions can take years, and many drug traffickers are granted bail or fined instead of serving time behind bars.

The country’s prison system is also under strain, with some prisoners held on remand for extended periods without a trial.
The government needs to address these issues by improving the efficiency of the judicial system and reducing the backlog of cases.

Police Force Struggles to Keep Up

Despite being well-resourced and equipped, the Royal Barbados Police Force (RBPF) faces challenges in combating organized crime. The force has dedicated units focused on drug trafficking and human smuggling, but more needs to be done to tackle the root causes of these issues.

The government is working to strengthen border controls and improve cooperation with international partners to combat illicit activities.
To effectively combat organized crime, the RBPF needs better training and resources to stay ahead of criminals.

Economy Faces Challenges

Barbados has a strong economy, driven by tourism and offshore finance. However, there are concerns about money laundering and financial corruption, which could undermine the country’s stability.

The government has committed to enhancing its anti-money laundering framework, but more needs to be done to address these issues.
To maintain economic stability, the government must strengthen its regulations and enforcement mechanisms to prevent financial crimes.

Civil Society Plays Important Role

Barbados has a strong civil society sector, with many NGOs working to combat human trafficking and drug abuse. The government has launched awareness campaigns and provided support for victims of trafficking, but more needs to be done to address the root causes of these issues.

The media in Barbados is independent and free from censorship, providing an important check on government activity and ensuring that issues of organized crime and corruption are reported on freely.
Civil society organizations play a crucial role in raising awareness about these issues and advocating for policy change.