KINGSTON, Jamaica—Executive Director of Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ), Mickel Jackson says while the country has seen a “historic” decline in murders this year, there has been a sharp rise in fatalities at the hands of the state.

“Jamaica has much to celebrate in terms of gains made. This year has seen a historic decline in murders, with rates dropping significantly and projections pointing to some of the lowest homicide figures in decades,” Jackson said in her Human Rights Day message on Tuesday. “These gains are a testament to dedicated efforts by security forces and communities working to restore peace and safety across our island.”

However, she noted that while the country celebrates a significant reduction in murders, the increase in fatal shootings by security forces strikes at the very core of fundamental rights.

“As of December 8, 2025, security force-involved fatalities have reached 289—the highest in over a decade. At the same time last year, Jamaica recorded 172 fatalities involving the security force,” Jackson said, noting that the figure “represents a stark 68 per cent increase compared to the same period last year, with persistent concerns over transparency, accountability, and the underutilisation of body-worn cameras.”

The executive director said while the organisation has encountered opposition including disparaging remarks, threats and intimidation following the staging a peaceful protest in Half-Way Tree, St Andrew, to highlight the issue, its stands resolute in its mission.

“Civil society will continue speaking fearlessly but fairly, advocating even when it is unpopular, and relentlessly carrying the message of rights to every parish and every household,” Jackson added.

She reminded that the Charter of Fundamental Rights and Freedoms, enshrined in the Constitution, is not decoration but it is the solemn promise that human rights are not expendable and no power is above the law.

“On this Human Rights Day, let us remember the words of Rev Dr Martin Luther King Jr in his ‘Drum Major Instinct’ sermon: ‘Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve,'” she said.

“Let us redirect our natural desire to matter, to be first, into active service for justice reporting violations, supporting affected families, demanding oversight, and holding those in power accountable. In doing so, each of us becomes a drum major for human rights, leading Jamaica toward the nation we deserve,” Jackson added.

She further urged Jamaicans to be zealous in safeguarding these rights, not passively, but with the courage and commitment that define true greatness through service.

“Let us choose lawful force and rigorous accountability over excessive force and impunity. Let us make human dignity the lived reality—and not the exception—for every single Jamaican,” Jackson said.