Challenges for Jamaica

THE EDITOR, Madam:

AS JAMAICA celebrates its 38th year as an independent country, the United Kingdom moves ever closer to its European Union neighbours, thereby increasingly distancing itself from Jamaica, as its former colonial master.

Independence has placed Jamaica as the master of its own destiny, in determining the fate of the society and its institutions, by means of the decision-making bodies of the country. Doubtless, formerly colonial institutions will require replacement as they inevitably become more irrelevant.

Like Western Europe, the pressures of globalization, makes Jamaica increasingly aware of our Caribbean neighbours, and of having a 'common destiny' with them. The Caribbean Court of Justice, and other existing, and emerging Caribbean institutions, seem to be part of a natural evolution.

As bold steps are made into previously uncharted territory, there will be numerous problems to overcome. Such challenges are inevitable, arising from the dynamic nature of human society, which shouldn't stop Jamaica from attempting to achieve the goal of 'true' Independence, within the context of a Caribbean reality.

I am, etc.,

C. ST. PATRICK BROWN

E-mail: AsteryxY2K@aol.com

Miami, Florida

Via Go-Jamaica

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