Navi Pillay, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, reported particularly serious problems of domestic violence and sexual harassment against women and children in Barbados and other Caribbean countries and urged Barbados to pass measures to combat domestic and sexual violence. Pillay noted that Barbados is facing issues related to discrimination, marginalization, and a lack of “adequate sanctions for sexual harassment and the psychological and physical impact which domestic violence has on children.” More effective legislative measures and public awareness programs are needed to address these behaviors and crimes.
Pillay met with the Prime Minister and cabinet members, and with civil society organizations which informed her of the human rights challenges faced in Barbados. Pillay urged everyone in Barbados, including the academic community, the media, the parliament, the government, the ombudsman, NGOs, and the general public to continue to work relentlessly to implement a stronger culture of human rights.