UWP Warns U.S. Travel Advisory Could Cripple Saint Lucia’s Tourism Industry as Crime Fears Escalate

The United Workers Party (UWP) has warned that Saint Lucia’s worsening crime situation is now threatening the country’s tourism-dependent economy, following the United States’ decision to raise its travel advisory for the island to Level 2 on July 10, 2026.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, the opposition argued that the advisory could have serious economic consequences, particularly because the United States remains Saint Lucia’s largest source market for visitors. The UWP noted that Saint Lucia joins destinations such as Jamaica and Turks and Caicos that have also seen heightened U.S. travel warnings.

Deputy Political Leader Dominic Fedee cautioned that unless violent crime is brought under control, the fallout will extend far beyond the tourism sector and directly affect the livelihoods of ordinary Saint Lucians.

“The United States is our major and main tourism market, and if we don’t get this right, then the consequences are going to be too dire,” Fedee said.

Fedee also pointed to what he described as declining arrivals from the United Kingdom, warning that multiple challenges facing the tourism industry could further weaken the country’s economic outlook.

Former Babonneau candidate Titus Preville argued that the increase in crime reflects what he described as an “ecosystem of lawlessness,” which he believes has developed under the current administration. According to Preville, the government’s response has failed to demonstrate the level of urgency and accountability needed to reassure both citizens and international partners.

“What we’re seeing is the US government has cited specific types of crime that it is advising its citizens exist in St. Lucia and that they should not move to come to our country,” Preville stated.

The U.S. advisory highlights concerns over crimes including armed robbery, assault, burglary and rape. Preville warned that the advisory risks damaging Saint Lucia’s international reputation and investor confidence unless stronger action is taken.

“What is the signal that the government sends to the criminal elements in the country and to the United States? Because in an environment like that, it is not only solving the problem, but is at least appearing to want to solve the problem,” he added.

Calling for national unity on the issue, the UWP urged the government to move beyond partisan politics and adopt a bipartisan approach to crime fighting. The party also recommended engaging key stakeholders and examining successful crime-reduction strategies implemented in regional countries such as Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago.

The opposition maintained that unless decisive measures are taken to restore public safety and international confidence, Saint Lucia risks further damage to its tourism industry, global reputation and long-term economic prospects.

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