Early Jamaica election likely despite COVID-19 impact

Significance

The authorities have implemented a range of measures to prevent transmission, introduced a large fiscal stimulus package and established a multi-stakeholder task force to oversee the response and recovery. Help has also been forthcoming from the IMF, which has disbursed funds under its Rapid Financing Instrument.

Impacts

• The continued rise of COVID-19 infections in the United States makes an early recovery of tourism unlikely.
• Elections may be called in the near term despite health and economic worries surrounding COVID-19.
• Rising levels of violent crime may work against the JLP’s electoral support.