Social exclusion and its link to the commission of crime in Trinidad and Tobago

Social exclusion occurs when people or areas suffer from a combination of problems such as high unemployment, low skills, low incomes, poor quality housing, poor health, and family breakdown.

It results in adversity and a lack of access to resources and services which in turn, excludes people from participating in their communities in a positive way. Social exclusion affects peoples’ health, quality of life, and is also a driver of crime. It also increases the risk of interaction with and demands on police and other public services.

Local organisations like the police service are incapable of tackling societal issues like exclusion and inequality by themselves, so there is a need to collaborate with partner organisations and engage in communities.

By treating crime as a public health issue, we focus not only on enforcement, but also on prevention and intervention, ensuring sustainable safety for all.