Prime Minister Gaston Browne has declared that Antigua and Barbuda is navigating one of the most challenging periods in recent history, as shifting geopolitical forces and mounting external pressures continue to test small island developing states.
According to Antigua.news, Browne made the remarks during the Browne and Browne programme on Saturday, describing the current international climate in stark terms.
"When you look at the geopolitical environment under which we are operating, it is 'hostile', I want to repeat; it is hostile," Browne said. "This makes it extremely difficult for small countries such as Antigua and Barbuda to navigate the space."
The Prime Minister said his administration continues to engage respectfully with international partners while firmly defending the country's national interests. "However, as much as we remain respectful of our international partners, those who continue to squeeze us, we are still making the case to ensure that they do not destroy our country," he stated.
Despite the external pressures, Browne maintained that his government's overriding priority remains ensuring Antigua and Barbuda is a safe place to live and work. He pointed to the country's crime statistics as evidence that the nation continues to compare favourably with many of its regional neighbours, noting that homicides recorded so far this year remain relatively low and that the country is performing well within the OECS.
"Antigua and Barbuda must be safe for our residents and our visitors who come to this country; they must feel as though they are coming to a place where they can enjoy themselves without having to worry about crime and violence," Browne said.
The Prime Minister did acknowledge concerns over petty crimes, particularly incidents involving young men snatching gold chains from pedestrians. He revealed that police are intensifying their efforts to target those responsible, saying law enforcement is "ramping up" its strategies to "go after" the offenders, many of whom are still teenagers.
Browne also highlighted what he described as a successful intervention programme involving himself and other concerned citizens, aimed at steering young people away from gang activity. He said several former gang members have since graduated from the Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies (ABCAS).
"We should encourage them to pursue their education, even to consider entering UWI FIC," Browne said, urging the young graduates to continue building positive futures through higher education.
