Several Jamaican non-profit human rights and civil society groups are growing increasingly concerned that funding from international entities and agencies may come to a halt.

Lobby group Stand Up for Jamaica (SUFJ) is among several local non-profit organizations facing financial issues, a situation that has made it difficult to fund and continue essential projects.

Speaking with IRIE FM News, SUFJ’s Executive Director, Maria Carla Gullotta, said there are several factors resulting in fewer international entities granting funds to Jamaica’s non-profit or civil society groups.

Ms. Gullotta pointed to policy changes under the new United States administration, and several international emergencies, including the Russia/Ukraine and Israel/Palestine wars, as some of those factors.

She explained that well-needed funds, which would have normally come to Jamaica, are now being redirected to these international emergencies.

She also noted that with the collapse of several governments in Europe and South Asia, human rights funding in Jamaica is not being prioritized.

Ms. Gullotta said the situation has created challenges for non-profits or civil society groups.

She added that several groups have increased their fundraising initiatives in an effort to continue projects or stay afloat.