blog.gov.je
By Deputy Carolyn Labey, Minister for International Development and Chair of Jersey Overseas Aid
Earlier this year, alongside the Chief Minister, Bailiff and David Peppiatt, Director at the British Red Cross, I had the honour of delivering a keynote speech for the 80th anniversary of Jersey’s Liberation. Speaking on such an important milestone was a moment to reflect on our history, our values, and the responsibilities that come with both. It was also a chance to highlight how Jersey continues to make a difference in the world today through our humanitarian programme, Jersey Overseas Aid (JOA).
JOA is something every Islander can be proud of. Our professional, evidence-based aid programme saves lives, strengthens communities, and reinforces Jersey’s reputation as a principled and compassionate partner on the world stage. Our work is strengthened by long-standing partnerships with organisations such as the British Red Cross, which share our commitment to delivering effective, locally led humanitarian support.
Our programme is built on the principle that Jersey, having once relied on international aid during the Occupation, has a responsibility to extend that same compassion to others – a principle that Sir Winston Churchill’s grandson, Lord Nicholas Soames, spoke of with great admiration when he was in the Island for Liberation 80. He praised not only Jersey’s recognition of the importance of the past, but also how that legacy continues to shape our actions today. We support organisations delivering flexible, locally led assistance during crises. For Jersey, this means that modest contributions have a profound impact, reaching people in places such as Syria, Yemen, Ukraine, and South Sudan quickly and efficiently.
In a recent Inside Gov podcast hosted by Edward Lewis, Executive Director of JOA, alongside David Peppiatt, Director of the British Red Cross, we reflected on how Jersey’s humanitarian work demonstrates both moral responsibility and international credibility. Our discussions highlighted how strategic, well-managed aid allows Jersey to be a trusted, influential partner in the global humanitarian system.
The connection between Jersey’s past and present is clear. During the Occupation, Islanders survived through courage, solidarity, and the generosity of others, including the Red Cross and donors from Canada and New Zealand. That compassion shaped our identity and laid the foundation for Jersey’s outward-looking approach today. Just as others extended a lifeline to us in 1945, Jersey now extends support, hope, and practical help to communities facing crises worldwide.
Liberation Day in May was more than a commemoration of our freedom; it was a reminder of our duty to act. Freedom, whether from oppression, poverty, or conflict, is not something we can take for granted. Through JOA, Jersey actively upholds these values, ensuring our aid is not only morally right but also strategically effective, reinforcing our standing in the international community.
Looking forward, I am proud that Jersey continues to shape a future where our Island is respected for its humanitarian leadership. By assisting international communities in need, supporting locally led responses, and working with partners around the world, we honour our history, uphold our values, and enhance Jersey’s reputation as a small but influential voice in a complex world.
Listen to the full podcast HERE, hosted by Ed Lewis with David Peppiatt, to learn more about how Jersey’s humanitarian programme is making a global difference.