In a significant development for international electoral cooperation, the Electoral Commission of Antigua and Barbuda (ABEC) has received an official invitation to participate in Costa Rica’s forthcoming electoral observation mission. The mission, operating under the established Tikai Protocol framework, is scheduled to take place from January 29th to February 2nd, 2026.
The ABEC delegation will be represented by Commissioner Mr. Clovis St. Romaine and Ms. Kisher Esprit, Assistant to the Human Resource and Training Officer. Their selection underscores ABEC’s growing reputation in the field of electoral management.
The Tikai Protocol serves as a comprehensive cooperative framework that standardizes electoral observation practices among participating nations. This agreement emphasizes core democratic principles including transparency, impartiality, professional conduct, and respect for national sovereignty throughout electoral processes. Through this mechanism, electoral management bodies engage in mutual knowledge exchange, technical collaboration, and professional development initiatives that strengthen democratic governance across jurisdictions.
His Excellency Ambassador Arthur G.B Thomas, Chairman of ABEC, emphasized the critical importance of such missions, stating: ‘International observation missions represent vital instruments for strengthening electoral integrity worldwide. This engagement allows ABEC to simultaneously enhance our professional capabilities while contributing to regional and international efforts that uphold free, fair, and credible elections.’
The Commission regards participation in such international missions as invaluable opportunities for institutional learning and improvement. This initiative reaffirms ABEC’s commitment to advancing democratic principles both within its domestic operations and through its contributions to the global democratic community.