Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has concluded a highly impactful week at the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80), where he fervently advocated for climate justice, human dignity, reparations, and a more equitable global order. Describing the week as one of the busiest and most significant of his leadership, Browne emphasized the importance of amplifying the voices of marginalized nations, particularly Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
At the heart of Browne’s agenda was the urgent call for climate justice. He highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on SIDS, which contribute less than 1% of global greenhouse gas emissions yet face severe consequences such as rising sea levels and extreme weather events. Browne criticized the rhetoric that dismisses climate change as a hoax, stating, ‘Our lived reality tells a starkly different story. It is one of coastal erosion, intensifying hurricanes, and livelihoods under threat.’ He reiterated the need for major polluters to honor their commitments to climate finance, loss and damage compensation, and technology transfer.
Browne also championed the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS) and the establishment of the Centre of Excellence for SIDS, which will serve as a global hub for knowledge-sharing, innovation, and policy development to enhance resilience and sustainable development across SIDS.
In addition to climate justice, Browne emerged as a global advocate for mental health, emphasizing it as a human rights issue. Reflecting on his personal experiences with a mother who faced mental health challenges, he announced plans to host a Global Mental Health Summit in 2026 in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).
Browne also focused on global health equity, hosting the United Nations Friends of Vision High-Level Meeting, which underscored the importance of eye health in development. He announced that Antigua and Barbuda will host a Global Eye Health Summit in 2026, further positioning the country as a leader in advancing global health equity.
Furthermore, Browne renewed calls for reparatory justice for the enduring impacts of slavery and colonialism, arguing that equitable global development cannot be achieved without addressing historical injustices. He also advocated for the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace, urging respect for the region’s sovereignty and stability.
During UNGA80, Antigua and Barbuda achieved significant diplomatic milestones, including six visa-waiver agreements and the establishment of diplomatic relations with the Republic of Palau and the Republic of the Marshall Islands. These agreements aim to facilitate easier travel, deepen people-to-people links, and expand opportunities in trade, education, and tourism.
Reflecting on his week at UNGA80, Browne stated, ‘This week has been about lifting up the causes that matter most — the survival of small states, the dignity of our people, and the creation of a fairer, more peaceful, and more compassionate world.’