Richard Jones, executive director of the Caribbean Policy Development Centre (CPDC), is emphasizing the urgent need for legal recognition to empower civil society and enhance community development efforts. During a recent conference organized by the Council of Voluntary Social Services (CVSS) for civil society organizations (CSOs) with part-funding from the EU, Mr Jones highlighted that the lack of formal legal status for many non-governmental organizations (NGOs) poses significant obstacles to their operations and their ability to serve vulnerable communities effectively.

The conference, which was held under the theme ‘Voice, Visibility, and Influence: Creating a Lasting Impact,’ underscored the importance of establishing a legal framework that grants NGOs legitimacy, enabling them to secure funding, participate in policy dialogues, and advocate more effectively for the communities they represent. Mr Jones said that without this recognition, many organisations struggle to navigate cumbersome registration processes and face barriers in accessing crucial financial resources.

“Formal legal recognition for NGOs is not just a matter of legitimacy; it is essential for our survival as effective actors in societal development,” he stated. “When governments recognise us as legitimate entities, it empowers us to represent our communities confidently and advocate for essential resources.”

The CPDC executive director pointed to existing regional frameworks where NGOs have achieved legal recognition, such as Belize, where the NGO Act provides formal representation in the national legislature. He said such models demonstrate that inclusive legal frameworks can enhance civil society’s role in governance and policymaking.

Calls for reform come amidst growing scrutiny from international bodies like the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), which imposes stringent regulations that can disproportionately burden NGOs. He noted that without legal recognition and a supportive regulatory environment, many NGOs risk being sidelined or forced to close their doors owing to their inability to finance regulatory costs to remain compliant.     

“Currently, NGOs are treated like any other business entity, but our work is fundamentally different,” he emphasised. “We are partners in development, working tirelessly to uplift our communities. Legal recognition would enable us to operate transparently while fostering trust with our stakeholders.”

He also highlighted the need for streamlined registration processes that are accessible and beneficial to a diverse range of organisations, from grassroots initiatives to larger associations. He stressed that a comprehensive legal framework should simplify administrative requirements, allowing NGOs to focus on their missions rather than navigating bureaucratic hurdles.

“Access to funding is a significant challenge for many NGOs. Simplifying the registration process and recognising us as legitimate entities are vital steps in overcoming these barriers,” he added. “We need to facilitate pathways for diverse funding sources that can sustain our programmes and enable community-driven initiatives.”

He said CPDC is actively engaging with local governments and international partners to advocate for the development of legal frameworks that recognise and empower NGOs. In addition to improving access to funding, these efforts aim to elevate the voices of civil society in governance processes and ensure a collaborative approach to national development.

“The time for change is now,” Mr. Jones said. “We must unite to push for legal reforms that will enhance our sector and allow us to continue fulfilling our mission to serve those in need.”

The conference was attended both in-person and online by CSOs, stakeholders and friends of civil society. In addition to raising awareness, the conference aimed to build local and regional partnerships, fostering leadership in an inclusive and engaging space. By promoting collective action toward common causes, the event seeks to give voice and visibility to strengthen the culture of collaboration among public, private, and civil society organisations to make their actions more impactful.

The Conference was also sponsored by local entities National Baking Company Limited, JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation, Supreme Ventures, and Sandals Foundation. Donations were also received from the Jamaica Public Service and the Barita Foundation.

CVSS is one of the longest-serving and largest voluntary sector umbrella NGO in Jamaica. Founded in 1940, its mission is to build the capacity of members and the wider community and create sustainable alliances, facilitating mutual support and joint action, and representing the concerns of the social sector, including disadvantaged and vulnerable groups, at national and international levels.