Politics
2068 articles
PM Browne Calls for Bolder OECS Leadership Ahead of Chairmanship
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has called on OECS leaders to move beyond "routine leadership" and pursue transformative regional projects, including a joint airline and geothermal energy cooperation. Browne is set to assume the rotating OECS chairmanship later this month when leaders meet in Antigua and Barbuda.
Cabinet Tightens Work Permit Rules to Put Antiguans and Barbudans First
Cabinet has announced tighter work permit rules requiring employers to more broadly advertise job vacancies before hiring foreign nationals, following a review of employment trends and labour market conditions. The measures aim to ensure Antiguans and Barbudans are given full opportunity to fill available positions.
Over 800 Volunteers Sign Up as Antigua and Barbuda Ramps Up CHOGM 2026 Preparations
More than 800 individuals have volunteered to support the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, as Antigua and Barbuda steps up preparations for the landmark summit coinciding with an anticipated state visit by King Charles III.
Cabinet Tightens Work Permit Rules to Prioritise Local Hiring
Antigua and Barbuda's Cabinet has approved new work permit rules requiring employers to advertise vacancies across multiple platforms before hiring foreign workers. The measures aim to strengthen labour market protections and prioritise local job seekers.
Government Presses Ahead with Barbuda Land Registry as Council Digs In
The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has reaffirmed plans to establish a Barbuda Land Registry and proceed with Crown land sales, setting up a direct confrontation with the Barbuda Council, which insists the island's communal lands are not for sale. Court proceedings related to the dispute are ongoing, with the registry expected to become operational by end of August.
Cabinet Warns Illegal Barbuda Land Deals Will Be Void, Structures Face Demolition
The Antigua and Barbuda Cabinet has warned that unauthorised land sales and development activities in Barbuda will carry no legal weight and that illegally erected structures could face demolition. The warning was issued as the government advances efforts to establish a formal Barbuda Land Registry.
Spain to Help Antigua and Barbuda Make Spanish the Country's Second Language
Antigua and Barbuda is pursuing technical assistance from Spain, including lecturers, teaching materials and teacher-training programmes, as part of a government initiative to establish Spanish as the country's second language. The plan also includes proposals for a Spanish Language and Cultural Institute and specialised training for workers in key economic sectors.
Government Eyes Compulsory Acquisition of Derelict Properties to Boost Housing
Prime Minister Gaston Browne says the government is weighing compulsory acquisition of derelict properties in St. John's to advance the national housing programme. The move comes amid an ongoing campaign to demolish abandoned structures across the capital.
Civil Liberties Group: Barbudans Must Have Final Say on Land Ownership Changes
The Antigua and Barbuda Civil Liberties Movement is demanding that Barbudans provide free, informed and meaningful consent before any major changes are made to the island's communal land ownership system or development plans. The group is urging the government to respect the constitutional role of the Barbuda Council in all decisions affecting the island's lands and resources.
US Launches Second Day of Airstrikes on Iran as Trump Vows More Attacks
The US has launched a second day of airstrikes against multiple targets in Iran, with President Trump vowing further attacks after negotiations with Tehran failed to produce a deal. The offensive follows an Iranian drone strike that downed a US helicopter off the coast of Oman.
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.