Politics
1942 articles
Antigua and Barbuda Cuts 2026 GDP Growth Forecast to 4% Amid Global Pressures
Antigua and Barbuda has lowered its 2026 GDP growth forecast to four percent, down from six percent, as global fuel and food price pressures stemming from Middle East tensions dampen economic expectations. Prime Minister Gaston Browne described the revised rate as still healthy and among the stronger performances projected in the Caribbean.
Antigua Cuts 2026 Growth Forecast to 4% Amid Rising Fuel Costs and Global Tensions
Antigua and Barbuda has lowered its 2026 GDP growth forecast from six percent to approximately four percent, with Prime Minister Gaston Browne citing Middle East tensions and rising global fuel and food prices as the primary drivers of the revision.
U.S. Revokes Hundreds of Visas in Global Birth Tourism Crackdown
The U.S. State Department has revoked hundreds of visas and moved to dismantle organised birth tourism networks operating across West Africa, Europe and North Africa. According to Antigua News Room, investigators uncovered schemes using fraudulent documents and coaching services to help foreign nationals obtain U.S. visitor visas under false pretences.
Potters Playing Field Multi-Sport Complex on Track for CHOGM 2026 Deadline
Senior government officials have toured the Potters Playing Field redevelopment project, with the multi-sport complex on track for substantial completion by September 30, 2026 — ahead of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in St. John's this November.
Bottle Cap Mural of Sir Rodney Williams and Sir Vivian Richards Unveiled for CHOGM 2026
A mural made from recycled bottle caps featuring Sir Rodney Williams and Sir Vivian Richards has been unveiled as part of Antigua and Barbuda's CHOGM 2026 preparations, promoting sustainability and community involvement ahead of the historic summit.
Opinion: Empowering Youth and Women in Antigua and Barbuda's Leadership
An opinion piece published by Antigua News Room argues that the growing inclusion of women and young people in Antigua and Barbuda's governance reflects a strengthening of national leadership traditions. Writer Jamie Saunders points to recent political appointments and elections as evidence of meaningful and encouraging progress.
Elon Musk Showing Interest in Attending CHOGM Business Forum in Antigua
Prime Minister Gaston Browne says Elon Musk is showing interest in attending the Commonwealth Business Forum, set to take place alongside CHOGM in Antigua and Barbuda in November 2026. No confirmation has been made, but discussions are said to be ongoing.
Antiguan Surgeon Named Finalist for Caribbean Global Awards' Top Medical Honour
Dr. Vonetta George, Chief of Surgery at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, has been named a finalist for the 2026 Global Doctor, Innovation and Leadership Award, presented by the Caribbean Global Awards. The winner will be announced at a gala ceremony in London on September 26.
Opinion: Antigua Must Codify Who Deserves an Official Funeral
Columnist and Ambassador Daven Joseph calls on the government to establish a formal, written policy for official funerals after two celebrated public servants — meteorologist Philbert Mason and former Medical Director Dr. Cuthrin Lake — were buried within days of each other but honoured differently by the State. Joseph argues that the absence of codified criteria produces decisions that appear arbitrary and fail those who dedicate their lives to national service outside of politics.
Turner Meets Sustainable Markets Initiative to Tackle Infrastructure and Coastal Challenges
Minister Rawdon Turner met with the Sustainable Markets Initiative to discuss collaboration on sewage infrastructure, disability-friendly urban development, and coastal erosion ahead of CHOGM 2026. The Initiative's CEO indicated SMI would explore funding and technical support options for Antigua and Barbuda.
U.S. to Offer Expedited Visa Interviews for $750 Under New Pilot Program
The U.S. State Department will launch a pilot program from July 1 allowing visa applicants to pay $750 on top of standard fees for an expedited interview within 10 days at select embassies. The move comes amid widespread delays linked to the Trump administration's tightened immigration measures.
Minister Johnson Calls for Respect and Inclusion of Antigua's Centenarians
Minister of Social and Urban Transformation Kiz Johnson is urging Antiguans and Barbudans to honour and include the nation's oldest citizens during Centenarians Week 2026. The minister described centenarians as a vital national resource and reaffirmed her ministry's commitment to building inclusive, supportive communities for seniors.
Minister Johnson Urges Caribbean Unity on Women's Economic Empowerment
Minister Kiz Johnson called for unified Caribbean action on women's economic empowerment during a ministerial dialogue, urging regional governments to address financial barriers and tackle the underrepresentation of women in well-paying roles within the tourism sector.
PM Delivers Special Message to Mark Centenarian Week
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has released a video message marking Centenarian Week, honouring Antigua and Barbuda's oldest citizens and their lasting contributions to the nation.
PM Browne Honours Centenarians as Architects of Modern Antigua and Barbuda
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has honoured Antigua and Barbuda's centenarians during Centenarians Week 2026, crediting their hard work, sacrifice, and service as foundational to the nation's development.
SLBMC Chief of Surgery Named Finalist for Caribbean Global Award
Dr. Vonetta George, Chief of Surgery at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, has been named a finalist for the Global Doctor, Innovation and Leadership Award 2026 by the Caribbean Global Awards. The winner will be announced at a gala ceremony in London on September 26, 2026.
Opinion: Making Spanish an Official Language Remains a Dangerous Idea
A critical opinion piece argues that the Antigua and Barbuda government has failed to justify its decision to declare Spanish a second official language, contending that the cited benefits are achievable without such a declaration and that the true motivation behind the move remains unexplained.
Minister Turner Honours Centenarians as 'Living History' During National Centenarian Week
Minister of Social and Urban Transformation Rawdon Turner has honoured Antigua and Barbuda's centenarians as "living history" in a message marking Centenarian Week, praising their resilience and reaffirming the government's commitment to supporting elderly citizens with dignity.
NODS Eyes $19M Hurricane-Proof Shelter as CDEMA Signs Five-Year Disaster Plan
The National Office of Disaster Services is seeking funding for a US$19 million purpose-built hurricane shelter capable of housing 500 people, as CDEMA officials visit Antigua and Barbuda to sign a five-year national disaster management programme.
Barbuda Council Returns to Court to Challenge Government Land Adjudication Process
The Barbuda Council returns to court Tuesday to challenge the central government's land adjudication programme, arguing the process threatens the island's communal land system and was launched without proper consultation. The case is widely regarded as one of the most significant legal battles over land rights and governance in Barbuda's history.