The government of Antigua and Barbuda has initiated a crucial phase of public engagement for its proposed Workplace Violence and Harassment (Prevention) Bill 2026, scheduling consultation sessions to gather vital stakeholder input. These forums, designed to incorporate diverse perspectives before legislative advancement, will convene on two separate dates: February 25th at 5:00 PM at the Bolans Wesleyan Holiness Church, followed by a second session on March 4th at 2:30 PM within the Parliament Building in St. John’s.
Government organizers are issuing a broad invitation to ensure comprehensive representation from across the workforce ecosystem. Employers, employees, trade union delegates, and concerned citizens are all actively encouraged to contribute to these pivotal discussions. This initiative represents a significant component of the administration’s broader strategy to reinforce legal protections and foster safer professional environments.
The prospective legislation itself establishes a comprehensive framework to combat workplace misconduct. Its provisions are slated to introduce mandatory preventive protocols, establish clear and confidential reporting channels, and implement robust safeguards for victims. The law’s jurisdiction will extend to both public institutions and private sector enterprises, ensuring uniform standards of protection.
According to official statements, these consultations serve a fundamental democratic purpose: to collect informed feedback and substantive recommendations directly from the populace. This collaborative approach aims to strengthen the bill’s effectiveness and legitimacy before it enters the formal legislative pipeline for debate and enactment.