Antigua and Barbuda's national census is falling behind schedule, and officials are warning that continued low participation could jeopardize the country's access to critical regional and international funding.
According to Antigua Observer, census field supervisor Sharon Herbert says response rates have been slow since fieldwork resumed in September 2025. Enumerators have encountered resistance from some residents, with doors being turned away at — a trend that officials say must be reversed.
The census is a vital data-collection exercise that governments and development partners use to allocate resources, plan infrastructure, and determine funding eligibility. A poor response rate can skew population data, weakening Antigua and Barbuda's position when applying for grants and financial assistance from regional bodies and international organisations.
Herbert and other officials are urging residents to cooperate with enumerators when approached, emphasising that participation is not only a civic duty but a practical necessity for the country's development planning and financial standing.
As reported by Antigua Observer, fieldwork is ongoing, and authorities are pressing ahead with efforts to improve engagement before the data collection window closes.
