Since its independence from the United Kingdom in 1962, Trinidad and Tobago has faced waves of ethnic tension in politics. This dynamic originated in the colonial era, wherein the two largest groups - those of African and Indian descent - clashed culturally and competed for economic power. Party politics continues to be influenced by this ethnic division, as are tensions over economic inequality and poverty: poverty afflicts Afro-Trinbagonians at a higher rate while the population’s wealth is concentrated disproportionately among Indo-Trinbagonians. The country’s distinctive ‘twin island’ composition adds another layer to its socio-political landscape. Trinidad is home to the majority of the population and is fairly balanced ethnically. Tobago, the smaller island to the north, has a predominantly Afro-descendant population. Both, islands are represented in the country’s bicameral legislature, but Tobago also has a measure of self-government through the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) – a body that originated in the 1980s to ensure equal treatment between the two islands and press for further self-government. The country has two main political parties: The People's National Movement (PNM) predominantly supported by Afro-Trinbagonians and the Creole-Mulatto population, and the United National Congress (UNC) traditionally supported by Indo-Trinbagonians. Participation has been an area of concern, given that voter turnout in the 2020 election was nearly ten percentage points lower than in 2016.

Organized crime and violence have been a longstanding challenge, disproportionately affecting historically discriminated populations, including women and girls. Combatting key issues, like trafficking in persons, corruption and the complicity of law enforcement in crime are ongoing challenges. Anti-LGBTQIA+ attitudes, violence and discrimination are commonplace, despite a 2018 High Court ruling that repealed laws criminalizing same-sex relations. In recent years, Trinidad and Tobago has also faced an immigration crisis as tens of thousands of Venezuelan asylum seekers and migrants have sought refuge in the islands. This has led to an increase in reports of xenophobic incidents, and tension between migrants and locals is on the rise. Further, the country has been criticized for deporting refugees and asylum seekers without following international guidelines and obligations. Over the past couple of years the country has also witnessed a surge in its murder rates which are considered to be related to gang activity in the country.

In terms of gender equality, the country faces many challenges, such as high levels of gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and inequality between women and men. Additionally, only 28.6 per cent of women hold seats in parliament.

Looking ahead, it will be important to watch the country’s handling of migration, which could impact the country’s performance in Rights. It will also be important to follow what efforts the government makes for combatting corruption and how that could impact Rule of Law scores. A further issue to watch will be the impact on Personal Integrity and Security of gang violence and the increase in violent crimes. Going forward, electoral participation rates will be key, given a recent downturn in voter turnout.

Last Updated June 2024