Antigua and Barbuda has earned the second-highest ranking in the world for its support of the United Nations-based multilateral system, according to Antigua News Room, citing the newly released Sustainable Development Report 2026.

The report's Index of Countries' Support for UN-Based Multilateralism (UN-Mi) awarded Antigua and Barbuda a score of 88.3, placing the twin-island nation second globally — behind only regional neighbour Barbados, which claimed the top position.

The index evaluates countries based on their commitment to international cooperation across several key indicators, including participation in UN institutions, ratification of international treaties, voting patterns at the UN General Assembly, financial contributions to the UN system, and support for global peace and development initiatives.

Antigua and Barbuda's second-place finish places it ahead of larger and more globally influential nations, a notable achievement for a Small Island Developing State. The rankings arrive as the country continues to maintain an active presence in international diplomacy, climate advocacy, and the promotion of SIDS interests within global forums.

The Sustainable Development Report, produced annually by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), emphasised that multilateral cooperation remains essential to addressing pressing global challenges, including climate change, sustainable development, poverty reduction, and international security.

The report further found that a large majority of countries continue to back the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals framework, even as geopolitical tensions persist across several regions.

Antigua and Barbuda's strong performance in the index reflects the country's longstanding dedication to international engagement and its active role within the United Nations and other multilateral institutions.