KINGSTON, Jamaica — President of Victoria Mutual Group (VM) Courtney Campbell says one of the major causes of strife and lack of peace in Jamaica is inequality in the society.

According to Campbell, research has shown that Jamaica is one of the most unequal societies in the world.

“The correlation between that fact — and the unfortunate reality that we are constantly numbered among the most violent nations in the world — is clear. The matter of crime is complicated and …when persons are made to feel ‘less than’ the result is strife and conflict,” he was quoted in a release this afternoon.

Campbell argued that a more equal society tends to improve social conditions and is a more hospitable environment for sustainable economic growth. “So, by reducing inequality, we are improving lives,” he noted.

The VM chief was speaking at a Rotary Club of Kingston luncheon held at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel last Thursday.

Campbell said his organisation was founded by a group of clergymen over 140 years ago to reduce inequality and help hardworking Jamaicans to own homes and improve their personal economic realities. That mission has remained at the core of his organisation, he said.