Antigua and Barbuda is calling for meaningful representation for climate-vulnerable nations in global decision-making, as the country participates in the Berlin Climate Mobility Forum 2026. According to Antigua News Room, the forum brings together global leaders, policymakers, communities, and partners to advance solutions to one of the most pressing consequences of the climate crisis: climate mobility.
Minister of Health, Wellness, the Environment and Civil Service Affairs, the Honourable Michael Joseph, participated in an interview at the forum, highlighting the unique vulnerabilities of Caribbean Small Island Developing States and the urgent need for climate justice, equitable access to finance, and greater representation at the global level.
Minister Joseph emphasized that climate mobility is ultimately about people. Successful relocation and adaptation efforts must be community-led, protect cultural identity and heritage, and ensure that those most affected have a meaningful voice in decisions about their future. He drew on Antigua and Barbuda's experience following the devastation wrought by Hurricane Irma on Barbuda, stressing the importance of careful planning, community engagement, and protecting the rights and dignity of affected populations.
The Minister also made clear that for Small Island Developing States, the preferred outcome is not relocation but resilience. The newly endorsed Global Principles for Addressing Climate Mobility reflect this priority, recognizing the importance of protecting the "right to stay" while also supporting safe and dignified mobility pathways where necessary.
A central message from Antigua and Barbuda at the forum was unambiguous: climate-vulnerable countries must have a meaningful seat at the table. While the nation's contribution to global emissions remains negligible, it is among those most severely affected by rising sea levels, stronger storms, and intensifying climate impacts.
As Minister Joseph put it directly: "We're not asking because we'd like to have a seat. We're asking because we need a seat."
