Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has emphasized the nation’s growing prominence on the global stage, asserting that small states can wield significant influence in advocating for justice, equality, and climate resilience. In his Independence Day address, Browne highlighted the country’s remarkable achievements, including hosting major international conferences and leading regional development rankings, as evidence of its outsized impact. He proudly noted that Antigua and Barbuda now tops the Caribbean region on the United Nations Human Development Index, a testament to the nation’s effective governance and global relevance. Browne described the twin-island nation as “small, but substantial; modest in geography, but consequential in influence,” underscoring its recognition as a global leader. The Prime Minister pointed to the country’s recent successes in hosting significant international events, such as the UN SIDS4 Conference in 2024, the Organization of American States (OAS) General Assembly in 2025, and the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in 2026, as affirmations of its capabilities. He attributed this global respect to the nation’s unwavering commitment to principles of love, truth, and justice. Browne also reiterated Antigua and Barbuda’s advocacy for reforming the international financial system, ensuring fair treatment for small island developing states, and intensifying global efforts to combat climate change. “Our global standing is not a gift,” he declared. “It is the earned respect of a country determined to stand up for principle and justice — not only for ourselves, but for all those who are threatened or disadvantaged.”
‘Small but Substantial’: PM Says Antigua and Barbuda Punches Above Its Weight on Global Stage
