Jamaica

Chief of Defence Staff, Jamaica Defence Force

Vice Admiral (VAdm) Antonette WEMYSS GORMAN

Biography:
Vice Admiral Antonette Wemyss Gorman was appointed as the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) in January 2022, becoming the first woman to hold this position. She has been instrumental in advancing gender integration within the JDF and promoting Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) initiatives. Under her leadership, the JDF has made strides in integrating WPS principles into policy and practice, ensuring the meaningful participation of women in all aspects of military operations.

NATIONAL FRAMEWORK

WPS Principles in Government Policy and Security Documents:

Jamaica’s government policies emphasize gender equality and respect for human rights, aligning with the global WPS Agenda. The country has included gender considerations in its national security policies, demonstrating a commitment to advancing WPS principles. The main government entities tasked with charting the country’s strategic direction concerning gender equality include the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport (MCGES) and the Bureau of Gender Affairs (BGA).  

WPS National Action Plan (NAP):

Jamaica does not currently have a formalized WPS National Action Plan. However, discussions are underway to develop a comprehensive NAP, with collaboration among the Ministry of National Security, the Jamaica Defence Force, and other key stakeholders.

Other Gender Equality and Women’s Rights Policies:

• National Policy for Gender Equality (NPGE) – Engineered in 2011, this policy provides a framework for promoting gender equity across all sectors and preventing gender-based discrimination.
• Sexual Harassment (Protection and Prevention) Act – Enacted in 2021, it aims to create safe working environments and prevent acts of sexual harassment.

INSTITUTIONAL POLICY – MILITARY

Integration of WPS Principles in Military Strategies, Plans, and Policies:

The Jamaica Defence Force has integrated gender considerations into its operational planning, recruitment strategies, and leadership development programs.

Military Gender Action Plan:
The JDF publishes a Gender Action Plan annually that outlines key targets for gender integration, training, and personnel development in gender-related matters.

Women’s Representation:
The JDF continues to see an increase in the percentage of women in both the Enlisted and Officer ranks, particularly in combat and technical roles.

Access to All Military Roles:
Women in the JDF can serve in all branches, including combat roles and there are ongoing efforts to ensure full gender integration and support for women in operational environments.

Role of Gender Advisors (GENADs) and Gender Focal Points (GFPs):

• The JDF has a designated Force Gender Advisor (GENAD) responsible for advising leadership on gender-related policies and practices.
• Gender Focal Points (GFPs) are appointed within various Units to facilitate gender mainstreaming and implementation of WPS principles.

Training for GENADs and GFPs:

GENADs and GFPs receive specialized training on gender mainstreaming, WPS policies, and the prevention of gender-based violence. This training is supported by both local and international partners.

TRAINING & EDUCATION

Programs Addressing Protection and Prevention of Sexual Violence:

• The JDF conducts regular training on sexual harassment prevention, reporting mechanisms, and victim support.
• Peacekeeping training includes modules on preventing sexual exploitation and abuse as well as conflict-related sexual violence.

Pre-deployment Gender Sensitivity Training:

• JDF personnel deployed on peacekeeping missions receive pre-deployment training on gender perspectives in conflict settings and the protection of vulnerable populations.

Integration of WPS Principles into Professional Military Training:

• The JDF is exploring avenues where WPS principles can be incorporated into the curricula for junior, mid-level, and senior leadership courses.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Gender-Friendly Policies:

• The JDF provides maternity and paternity leave in accordance with national labour laws.
• The JDF Policy on Gender Optimization – Ensures equality of opportunity by mandating that not less than 25% of either gender must be included in all training, operations, and recruitment, fostering a more inclusive force.
• The JDF Policy on Sexual Harassment (Prevention) – Establishes guidelines for preventing, reporting, and addressing sexual harassment within the JDF, reinforcing a zero-tolerance approach.

Uniforms and Equipment for Women:

• The JDF has introduced gender-specific uniforms, including maternity wear, to accommodate female personnel.
• Efforts are underway to ensure that personal protective equipment (PPE) is designed for women’s fit and comfort.

Facilities for Women:

• Separate living quarters and restroom facilities for female personnel are standard in all JDF installations.

MONITORING & REPORTING

Mechanisms for Sex-Disaggregated Data Collection:

• The JDF tracks gender representation across ranks and monitors progress in achieving gender optimization.
• Reports on gender optimization within military Formations are compiled and sent to the Headquarters quarterly.

Internal Departments Involved in WPS Monitoring:

• The JDF’s Inspector General’s Department ensures compliance with gender policies.
• The Office of the Force Gender Advisor (GENAD) advises leadership on improvements.