St. Kitts and Nevis is transitioning from its Citizen Security Secretariat to a National Secretariat for Human Security and Well-Being, marking a major shift in how crime and safety are addressed.

Officials say the move expands the focus beyond traditional crime control to a broader, people-centered approach that includes mental health, economic stability and community well-being.

The new framework also extends protection to non-citizens, including visitors and foreign nationals. Programme Director, Hance Richards provided the rational for the shift:

Mr. Hance Richards. The transition follows what authorities describe as significant success under a public health approach to crime, with an over 80 percent reduction in homicides in recent years.