Jamaica’s
broadcasting authority has placed a ban on content that ‘glorifies illegal activity’
and swearing.
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| Credit: EuroNews. |
By: Derry Salter.
The
record-breaking change put in place two weeks ago will see the ban cover all TV,
radio and music. It lists specific topics that are off-limits including drug
use and abuse, the use of firearms, or any swearing. The last is arguably the
most controversial as any ‘near-sounding’ replacements have been banned too.
The
move comes after Jamaica had one of the highest murder rates across Latin
America and the Caribbean in 2021, with levels of violent crime growing.
The
Jamaican Broadcasting Commission stated that using public airwaves to broadcast
any illegal content could give ‘the wrong impression that criminality is an
accepted feature of Jamaican culture and society’.
However,
some artists have spoken out against the new ban, arguing that such music that is
being restricted only seeks to reflect daily life in Jamaica. Grammy
award-winning music producer and signer Di Genius argued: ‘Art imitates life,
and the music is coming from what is happening in Jamaica for real.’
The
broadcasting agency argued that banning offending content was to prevent ‘vulnerable
and impressionable’ youths from glorifying criminality. In response, Jamaican
music manager and producer Romeich asked if ‘Jamaica is the only country that
has children? Because the same children listen to these same songs elsewhere.’
Romeich’s
comment proves true and puts the US’ high levels of gun crime under the
microscope. But it is unlikely that other countries will implement a similar
ban.
No
consequences have been detailed for those who violate the ban, although the broadcasting
commission called on the public to report those who violate it.
This
is not the first time the broadcasting agency has implemented a ban in Jamaica.
In 2009, regulators banned all music promoting sex, violence, murder or arson.
They were condemned for preventing freedom of expression, but responded that
promoting criminal activities conflicted with the ‘tenets of responsible
broadcasting’.
With
access to the Internet, it is inevitable young children in Jamaica will be
exposed to content glorifying illegal activity. However, this is a good step in
the direction for a more peaceful future.
