Canada is investing C$110 million to strengthen the ability of Caribbean countries, including Jamaica, to combat transnational organised crime and deal with emerging security threats, Ottawa’s envoy to Kingston has announced.

High Commissioner of Canada to Jamaica Mark Berman said the funding, delivered through Global Affairs Canada’s Anti-Crime Capacity-Building Program, underlines his country’s commitment to regional security.

“Jamaica is the largest recipient of ACCBP support in the Caribbean, reflecting both the scale of our partnership and Jamaica’s leadership role in advancing regional security,” he said.

Berman was speaking at the final planning conference for Exercise Event Horizon 2027, held at the Jamaica Defence Force Caribbean Military Academy from 26 to 27 October.

Criminal networks exploit sea and air routes

The high commissioner said transnational organised crime continues to pose serious challenges across the region, with criminal networks exploiting maritime and air routes to move drugs, firearms and people, as well as engaging in cybercrime and other illicit activity.

Those threats, he said, undermine security and democratic resilience, while harming legitimate trade and limiting economic opportunities for citizens and communities.

He argued that the challenges can only be met through coordinated regional responses, backed by strong partnerships and investment in the capabilities of national institutions.

The funding comes as Caribbean governments continue to grapple with the movement of illegal drugs and firearms through the region’s waters and airspace, alongside growing cybercrime and human trafficking. The programme’s focus on building the capacity of local institutions, rather than one-off operations, is intended to give police, customs and other agencies the tools to sustain that work over time.

The announcement was made during planning for Exercise Event Horizon 2027, the multinational exercise that brings together military, civilian and regional partners to test readiness and cooperation. The exercise gives the countries involved a chance to practise joint responses to the same threats the funding is meant to address, from maritime patrols to disaster relief.

Support beyond the Caribbean

Berman said Canada also supports anti-crime capacity-building work in other countries, including Costa Rica and Guatemala, recognising that criminal networks operate across borders and need collaborative responses.

He commended the Jamaica Defence Force for bringing regional partners together to build capabilities and find practical solutions to the region’s complex security problems, and acknowledged the technical leadership of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime in strengthening maritime security and regional cooperation.

“Canada’s security partnership with Jamaica is long-standing, and it is based on predictability and trust. We are continually evolving to meet new realities,” Berman said, adding that sustained collaboration among regional governments, security institutions and international partners remains critical to countering organised crime and protecting the region’s security and economic prospects.