London, United Kingdom — Ambassador Curtis Ward has proposed an eight-point plan aimed at transforming Jamaica’s relationship with its diaspora, calling for deeper, more meaningful engagement beyond the current structures. Speaking virtually on June 14, 2025, at the Jamaica Diaspora United Kingdom (JDUK) 8th Biennial Conference, Ambassador Ward challenged the status quo and urged the diaspora to take control of its own agenda.
In his address titled “Reimagining the Role of the Diaspora: The Case of Jamaica,” Ambassador Ward strongly criticized the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council (GJDC), describing it as a government-imposed body with minimal diaspora consultation. He argued that the council, which is chaired and controlled by Jamaica’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade (MFAFT), cannot effectively represent diaspora interests.
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Ward reminded participants that the inaugural Jamaica Diaspora Conference in 2004 was originally a consultative partnership between the diaspora and the Jamaican government. He noted that while attendance at these conferences has since grown, the focus has shifted from genuine dialogue to a government- and private-sector-led event, sidelining diaspora priorities.
“The diaspora conferences have evolved into trade shows that primarily serve government and private sector interests,” Ward said. “The original consultative spirit that intended to advance both the country and the diaspora has been lost.”
The ambassador commended the JDUK’s choice of theme for this year’s conference: “Continuity and Change,” acknowledging their recognition of the urgent need for reform.
A Time for Action
Ward emphasized that Jamaica’s upcoming general election presents a unique opportunity for the diaspora to press both political parties to formally recognize the diaspora’s importance and to commit to meaningful policy changes.
“The diaspora’s contribution to Jamaica’s economy—especially through remittances—is as critical as tourism,” he stressed. “Tourism has a full ministry and national board, yet diaspora affairs remain a part-time portfolio for a junior minister.”
He also cautioned against the continued exploitation of the diaspora as merely a market for ethnic goods and remittance services.
Eight-Point Plan for Diaspora Engagement
Ambassador Ward outlined eight key proposals for future government action:
- Meaningful Governance Participation
The diaspora must be granted genuine participation in Jamaica’s governance in ways that reflect their priorities and concerns. Maintaining the status quo is no longer acceptable. - Non-Discriminatory Entry to Jamaica
Diaspora members, regardless of which passport they use for travel, must be recognized and treated as Jamaicans upon entry to the country. The practice of treating them as foreigners must end. - Diaspora Representation in the Senate
Each political party should commit to appointing at least one senator dedicated to diaspora interests. This should be a formal part of party manifestos and national discussions. - Diaspora Appointments to Statutory Boards
Jamaican diaspora members should be actively appointed to statutory boards. Virtual technology now makes remote participation both practical and cost-effective. - Utilization of Diaspora Expertise
Government agencies, including JAMPRO and the Jamaica Tourist Board, should prioritize diaspora professionals for service contracts, especially in countries where the diaspora is concentrated. - Establishment of a Full Ministry of Diaspora Affairs
There should be a dedicated ministry focused exclusively on diaspora affairs, with effective representation embedded in all Jamaican embassies, consulates, and major diaspora cities. - Creation of a Diaspora Investment Bond
The long-promised diaspora bond must finally be introduced to channel diaspora resources into national development, particularly in health, education, youth, agriculture, and small and medium-sized enterprises. - Engagement of Diaspora Expertise in National Security
Jamaica should draw on diaspora expertise in specialized fields such as security and intelligence to enhance national development and resilience.
A Call for Diaspora-Led Advocacy
Ambassador Ward urged the diaspora not to wait for the Jamaican government to voluntarily implement these changes. “The time for reimagining the diaspora’s role is long overdue,” he said. “Real progress will only come if the diaspora itself takes charge of its destiny.”
He noted that many of these ideas are not new but have lacked consistent pursuit by successive Jamaican governments and diaspora leadership.
“What is required now is a new level of advocacy,” Ward concluded. “The diaspora must demand the respect and influence that its contributions to Jamaica rightfully deserve.”
