JFJ clarifies that it does not promote nor encourage early sexual activity

Human rights lobby group, Jamaicans For Justice (JFJ) has sought to clarify that it does not promote nor encourage early sexual activity.

The clarification follows back-lash from some members of the public, after the JFJ called for the decriminalization of consensual sex between minors, early this month.

JFJ had made the appeal while releasing its report “A Civil Society Review of the Diversion and Alternative Measures for Children in Conflict with the Law in Jamaica.”

According to Executive Director Mickel Jackson under the Child Diversion Act, a boy who is accused of having consensual sex with his girlfriend would go before the court under a charge of Grievous Sexual Assault.

However, many took issue with her call.

In a statement yesterday, Ms. Jackson assured that JFJ strongly supports maintaining the age of consent at 16.

She argued that decriminalizing consensual sex against minors is not a license for them to engage in sex.