EU lawyer: Healthy marriage culture cure for economic slump

EUROPEAN UNION (EU) human rights attorney and legal advisor to the European Parliament Roger Kiska has said that it is fundamental that the Jamaican Government promote a healthy marriage culture if it plans to turn its current economic tide.

Speaking at a public lecture at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Mona Campus recently, Kiska was also of the opinion that the European nations should emulate the national pride and moral attributes displayed by the majority of Jamaicans.

He told The Gleaner: “The cure is to promote marriage as a better form of life than cohabitation. Social science has shown that children who grow with their parents in a low-conflict relationship graduate school at higher rates, stay employed at higher rates, begin sexual activities at later ages and they, generally, just lead more responsible, law-abiding lives.”

He added: “I think Jamaica has an amazing culture and a moral compass that I’ve not seen in Europe. The people are very proud but kind, and it should be proud of its history, its heritage and stand up for it. I think, in Europe, we should learn to be as patriotic.”

Kiska also stated that religion is a cornerstone of any democratic society as it provides vital support that the Government isn’t able to because of lack of tax dollars.

“Infrastructure such as homeless shelters, schools, hospitals, and services such as addiction counselling, wedding counselling and other forms of advice are handled by the church. Religion does a lot of positives for the society, so I think it’ s incumbent on the Government to look also to religion and the positive impact is possesses.”