Connecting Skilled Jamaican Workers with Global Opportunities for Over 80 Years
For over 80 years, the Jamaica Central Labour Organisation (JCLO) has been dedicated to fostering mutually beneficial partnerships between the Governments of Jamaica and the United States, as well as between employers and recruited workers. We unconditionally serve the interests and welfare of Jamaican workers through an efficient liaison service that adheres to U.S. labour laws. By delivering superior service that enhances employer satisfaction, supports business retention, and expands existing programs, the JCLO also meets the evolving demands of the labour market by incorporating diverse skill sets.
Connecting Skilled Jamaican Workers with Global Opportunities for Over 80 Years
The JCLO is a department under the GOJ’s, Ministry of Labour and Social Security. For over 80 years, the Jamaica Central Labour Organisation (JCLO) has been dedicated to fostering mutually beneficial partnerships between employers and recruited workers. We unconditionally serve the interests and welfare of Jamaican workers through an efficient liaison service that adheres to U.S. labour laws. By delivering superior service that enhances employer satisfaction, supports business retention, and expands existing programs, the JCLO also meets the evolving demands of the labour market by incorporating diverse skill sets.
The Government of Jamaica, is committed to connecting our skilled Jamaican workforce with meaningful employment opportunities. We value the programmes and partnerships that ensure every Jamaican has a pathway to prosperity at home and overseas.
The Honourable Pearnel Charles Jr., MP, JP
Minister of Labour and Social Security
Liaison Officers are the cornerstone of the Jamaica Central Labour Organisation (JCLO), serving as mediators, advocates, and cultural ambassadors for Jamaican seasonal workers and employers. Embedded in North American industries, they bridge cultural gaps, ensure compliance with labour laws, and safeguard worker welfare— from resolving worker conflicts to coordinating urgent healthcare and dignified repatriation. Their proactive presence fosters trust, whether during routine check-ins, natural disasters, or crises like legal disputes or illnesses.
For over 80 years, JCLO Liaison Officers have upheld a legacy of “service above self,” partnering with the U.S. Department of Labor, employers, and Jamaica’s Ministry of Labour to ensure fairness and opportunity at every stage of the Seasonal Work Programmes. Through pre-departure orientations, rights advocacy, and crisis support, they empower workers to thrive while helping employers build skilled, loyal teams.
A Jamaican farm worker tends to tobacco plants on a farm in Canada. A special fact-finding team visited the farm to probe the workers’ status.
Jamaican farm worker Fredson Brissett puts the apples he picked onto the back of a tractor at Scott Farm Orchard in Dummerston, Vermont, United States, on Friday, September 16, 2022
Caribbean Employers Confederation President, Wayne Chen (left), interacts with a Jamaican farm worker in the production area of a tobacco farm.
Our history
Our history
Early Developments (1940s-1950s)
1950s: With rising unemployment in Jamaica, labor migration becomes a government priority. Various bilateral agreements are established to formalize the recruitment of Jamaican workers, primarily in agriculture
Creation of BWICLO (1956-1960s)
Late 1950s-1960s: BWICLO expands its operations, managing recruitment and employment processes while facing early criticisms over limited worker protections.
Transformation into the JCLO (1970s-Present)
Early to Mid-1970s: Due to mounting advocacy, BWICLO evolves into a Regional Labour Board overseeing programs in the U.S. and Canada.
Late 1970s: The Jamaica Central Labour Organisation (JCLO) emerges within this framework, assuming direct responsibility for protecting Jamaican workers. It establishes an office in Washington, D.C., and begins farm inspections to monitor compliance with labor laws and working conditions.
1980s: The JCLO becomes a key advocate for temporary workers, ensuring stronger oversight in programs such as the H-2A and H-2B visas. JCLO officers regularly visit worksites to inspect housing, safety, and hygiene conditions. Violations are reported to Jamaica’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
2001-Present: The JCLO shifts focus exclusively to Jamaican workers, facilitating the employment of over 5,000 workers annually across 30 U.S. states in agriculture and hospitality sectors. The organization supports a network of over 500 employers, ensuring fair labor conditions while providing financial security initiatives such as savings plans and social security programs for migrant workers.
