Antigua and Barbuda’s Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment, and Civil Service Affairs has taken significant strides toward transforming mental healthcare through comprehensive legislative reform. On February 20, 2026, the Ministry organized a high-level consultation at the Parliament Building to refine the proposed Mental Health Bill ahead of its parliamentary presentation scheduled for March 2026.
This gathering exemplified the government’s dedication to participatory governance, bringing together diverse stakeholders including senior health officials, medical professionals from Claarevue Psychiatric Hospital, community nurses, representatives from the Medical Benefits Scheme, AIDS Secretariat, Directorate of Gender Affairs, Evangelical Services, National Office of Disaster Services (NODS), and multiple non-governmental organizations.
Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph outlined the government’s transformative vision during his opening address, emphasizing the strategic integration of mental health services into community clinics nationwide. This initiative aims to make mental healthcare more accessible, community-oriented, and intrinsically linked to primary health services.
The Minister further revealed plans for establishing a Behavioral Health Institute at the former Jehovah Witness Kingdom Hall, which will operate under the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre. This institution will enhance coordination, oversight, and delivery of specialized mental health services within the national healthcare framework.
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has provided crucial technical assistance throughout the legislative drafting process, incorporating international best practices and human rights protections. The proposed legislation represents a paradigm shift toward rights-based, person-centred mental healthcare, modernizing existing laws while strengthening accountability mechanisms and safeguarding individual dignity.
During the consultation, stakeholders conducted meticulous reviews of the draft legislation and proposed additional refinements based on PAHO’s technical guidance. This collaborative approach ensures the final bill aligns with both global standards and Antigua and Barbuda’s specific requirements.
The Ministry expressed profound gratitude to all participants for their substantive contributions, acknowledging that their collective expertise will substantially enhance the proposed legislation. The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to promoting holistic health and national wellness, recognizing mental health as fundamental to the nation’s social and economic development.