Dennis Minott | Safeguard people’s safety and embrace sustainable growth

In the pursuit of safeguarding people’s safety, it is crucial to address the risks associated with unsound influence by some university researchers, professors, and credulous billionaires. This article highlights the challenges faced by small states, such as those in Jamaica and the wider CARICOM, and draws lessons from the Gupta brothers’ influence in South Africa. By combining these concerns, I want to raise awareness, promote vigilance, and help to protect the well-being and safety of CARICOM’s people.

THREAT OF UNSOUND INFLUENCE

Company trophy industry-employed scientists, university researchers, academics, professors, and credulous billionaires wield significant influence over decision-making processes. However, it is vital to acknowledge that not all individuals in these positions act with integrity. Unsound influence from them can compromise public safety and welfare.

Recognising this threat allows leaders to exercise caution and discern reliable experts from those who may exhibit opportunistic or unscrupulous conduct.

LESSONS FROM GUPTA BROTHERS

The three wealthy Gupta brothers’ undue influence upon South Africa’s former president Jacob Zuma’s government serves is a cautionary tale for all states. Their alleged manipulation of public policies compromised decision-making, misallocated resources, and endangered public safety.

By studying these lessons, small states like Jamaica and the wider CARICOM can understand the risks associated with anyone’s expensive and fanciful impulses (their latest whim) and consequential unsound influence. By pausing to be thoughtful, leaders can develop proactive measures to counteract their flimsy ‘bright ideas’.

SOUND EXPERTISE AND ETHICAL CONDUCT

a. Rigorous vetting and accountability: Small states should establish robust vetting processes to ensure that university academics, professors, and billionaires offering advice on state policy possess the necessary qualifications and expertise, and subscribe to consistent ethical conduct. Regular assessments and accountability mechanisms can help maintain the integrity of the advisory process.

b. Independent verification: Policymakers should encourage independent verification of expert advice by consulting multiple credible sources. Relying on peer-reviewed research, scientific consensus, and reputable institutions can mitigate the risks of unsound influence.

c. Engaging diverse expertise: Small states should seek diverse perspectives from a range of experts across disciplines. This approach fosters a comprehensive understanding of complex issues and reduces the risk of biased or one-sided recommendations.

STRENGTHENING INSTITUTIONAL GOVERNANCE

a. Upholding ethical conduct: Caribbean academic and research institutions such as the UWI, UG, UTECH, NCU, CARIRI, and the SRC play a crucial role in upholding integrity and promoting sound expertise. They should frown mightily on opaqueness and resolutely prioritise transparency, accountability, and ethical codes of conduct to unearth and discourage unsound influence and maintain the credibility of their faculty members and other personnel.

b. Robust regulatory frameworks: Small states should establish robust regulatory frameworks that hold individuals and entities accountable for their actions. This includes implementing clear guidelines, addressing instances of misconduct, and imposing penalties for unethical behaviour.

PUBLIC AWARENESS AND ENGAGEMENT

Transparent communication between policymakers, academics and the public is vital for informed decision-making. Modern ministerial fiat should never lack transparency.

Small states should actively communicate policy decisions, the rationale behind them, and the sources of expertise considered. Encouraging public scrutiny and involvement can peel away unsound influence and promote collective responsibility in safeguarding the well-being of society.

To safeguard the well-being and safety of our people, our small states like Jamaica and other states of CARICOM must address the risks associated with unsound influence by individuals from “up at the university”. Academics, professors, and credulous billionaires pushing “sinting new and innovative” outside of their area of proven expert knowledge are a hazardous mix.

Like the proverbial ‘crapaud’ or toad says, “What is likkle salt grain to you is death to me.” By implementing rigorous vetting processes, promoting independent verification, engaging diverse expertise, strengthening institutional governance, and fostering public awareness and engagement, our states can mitigate the risks and ensure that policies are based on sound expertise and the best interests of our societies.

- Dennis Minott, PhD is the CEO of A-QuEST-FAIR. He is a renewable energy specialist and worked in the oil and energy sector. Send feedback to columns@gleanerjm