A south-south exchange between Belize and Jamaica was established to facilitate an exchange of knowledge and best practices to strengthen the response to GBV in both countries. UNFPA implemented this initiative in collaboration with and support from the governments of Belize (through the Ministry of Human Development, Families & Indigenous People’s Affairs) and Jamaica (Bureau of Gender Affairs). 

The overall objective of this south-south exchange was to facilitate knowledge exchange and learning between two countries that face similar challenges but have experiences, strong points, and best practices that can be imparted to each other. Specifically, the Belize Delegation learned from Jamaica the management and operationalization of Safe Houses for GBV Survivors, particularly survivors of Domestic Violence. Also, through this exchange, the Jamaica Delegation gained knowledge of Belize’s case management system (FAMCARE) and the processes employed by the Government of Belize in its management of cases for survivors of GBV. 

Closely following the Essential Service Package (ESP) and the survivor-centered approach, the knowledge exchange between the countries aimed to provide strengthened coordinated and quality service delivery to survivors of Gender Based Violence at the national level, and increased opportunities for coordination, cooperation, and synergy among CARICOM countries, starting with Belize and Jamaica. 

At the closing dinner, there was a handover of a plaque with the Belizean emblem.

UNFPA Caribbean commits to continuing to support Governments like Belize and Jamaica in their continued bold and strategic efforts to address the scourge of gender-based violence.