Jamaica has Highest Percentage of Paternity Fraud Worldwide According to Report

Based on a finding that is now making rounds online, Jamaica is infamous for “paternity fraud”, holding the number one position in the world for such endeavours, Nigeria is second, Canada third, UK fourth while France has the fifth highest rate of the type of fraud.

As per the report, “Jamaica has the highest rate of paternity fraud in the world at 34.6%, Nigeria 30%, Canada 2.8%, UK 1.6%, France 1.4%.” The issue has increased the call for mandatory DNA tests locally in recent times.

A picture was shared on X(formerly Twitter)of a female giving a presentation on the stats. The post has since racked up over 4.2 million views in less than 24 hours as it continues to spread online like wildfire, mainly amongst the Nigerian community.

While the source of this latest finding was not revealed, previous research on 5% of the population of Jamaica and Nigeria showed similar results.

Understandably many persons have something to say about the report. One person wrote, “Yet we keep hearing “why do men cheat”, another stated, “That’s why I still maintain my stand that partenity fraud should be criminalize untill then , wicked woman who don’t care what paternity fraud cause their kids will continue.”

One individual made a lengthy statement, stating, “Hear me out: Never settle down with a Nigerian or Jamaican woman. Why? Because your chances of marrying a paternity fraud agent are highest with women from those countries. People will say not all of them are like that, but if I give you a bucket containing 100 tennis balls 80 of which are Red balls 20 white balls and your wish is to pick a white ball blindfolded, what is the probability you’ll pick a white ball not red? You see? You’ll be playing yourself.”

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In 2021, St. James Central MP Heroy Clarke brought attention to the contentious issue in Jamaica—paternity fraud—proposing DNA testing at birth. This move sparked a heated debate, reflecting deep societal concerns over the identity and responsibility issues entangled in the country’s prevalent ‘jacket’ culture, where children are mistakenly attributed to incorrect fathers. Clarke connected this issue with broader societal impacts, including crime rates and child rights, emphasizing the gravity of paternity fraud beyond personal disputes.

Northern Caribbean University’s research sheds light on this phenomenon, revealing alarming statistics and motivations behind paternity fraud. The studies indicate a notable percentage of women admitting to knowingly misattributing paternity, often influenced by financial stability considerations. This revelation points to a complex interplay of economic factors and societal pressures driving such decisions.

The research also highlights a significant desire among men for paternity verification, underlining the need for clarity and truth in parental roles. Men’s demand for DNA testing underscores their quest for paternal certainty, seen as a fundamental right.

This discourse on paternity fraud in Jamaica uncovers a multifaceted issue, intertwining economic, social, and personal dimensions. It calls for a nuanced understanding and policy response, recognizing the profound impact on children, families, and the broader societal fabric.