REPORT FROM THE CABINET OF ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA
MEETING OF THURSDAY 8TH JANUARY 2026
The prayers before Cabinet were led by A Pastor from the Salvation Army, whose meditation centred on the Book of James 1: 2-4 in which James teaches that when believers face hardships, they should view them with a hopeful attitude because trials strengthen faith. The Pastor told the Cabinet that those challenges build perseverance, and perseverance helps a person grow spiritually—becoming mature, complete, and lacking nothing in character.
He prayed God’s guidance on the decisions of the Cabinet and prayed also for unity among members. He concluded that with unity, the Cabinet will have God given strength to address the challenges facing the nation.
1. Wednesday’s Cabinet meeting, the first Official Meeting for the New Year was chaired by Prime Minister the Hon. Gaston Browne, who welcomed members and advised that the current state of the world’s political climate, requires members to roll their sleeves up and to work hard to navigate the challenges faced by Antigua and Barbuda and nation’s around the world. Cabinet commenced its discussions on the matter of Cooperation with the United States Regarding Third-Country Nationals, USA Visa Bond matter and matters involving the USA and Venezuela.
The Prime Minister led Cabinet discussions on cooperation with the United States regarding Third-Country Nationals. He reminded Cabinet that the arrangement proposed by the United States is a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), advanced as part of its global efforts to share responsibility for refugees already present within U.S. territory.
Antigua and Barbuda was approached by the United States—alongside more than one hundred governments worldwide, including several within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM)—to consider this non-binding understanding.
Under the proposed understanding:
- Antigua and Barbuda retains the absolute right to reject any individual proposed by the United States;
- All cases would be assessed strictly on a case-by-case basis;
- No person with a criminal record would be accepted; and
- Any consideration would be strictly limited, including an upper ceiling of no more than ten (10) persons per year, entirely at the Government’s discretion.
The Prime Minister emphasized that Antigua and Barbuda is not agreeing to accept deportees, nor to serve as a repository for individuals rejected by other countries. The understanding relates only to lawfully screened third-country nationals, including refugees already present in the United States, and only where Antigua and Barbuda is fully satisfied—based on intelligence vetting and national security assessments—that acceptance would pose no risk to the country or its people.
He further made clear that this MOU is not a concession, nor an attempt to trade people or curry favour. Rather, it represents a measured diplomatic gesture, undertaken alongside other responsible states, while maintaining Antigua and Barbuda’s full discretion and control.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed that Antigua and Barbuda remains a sovereign state, fully in charge of its decisions and its borders, and assured Cabinet that the Government will continue to act prudently, transparently, and always in the best interests of the people of Antigua and Barbuda.
In light of deliberate misinformation and xenophobic comments from certain sections of the media and opposition party, Cabinet agreed to the release of the following Press Statement on the matter:
Statement on the Non-Binding Understanding with the United States Regarding Third-Country Nationals
ST. JOHN, Antigua and Barbuda – 8th January 2026………The Government of Antigua and Barbuda wishes to clarify the status and scope of the Non-Binding Understanding between the Governments of Antigua and Barbuda and the United States of America regarding third-country nationals, including refugees.
First, the public is advised that this Understanding has not yet been operationalized. Consequently, no arrangements of any kind have been put in place by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda or any of its agencies to receive third-country nationals from the United States or from any other country.
At this time, the only movement of non-nationals into Antigua and Barbuda continues to be: free movement within the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS); and eligible applicants under the reciprocal CARICOM Skills Qualification Certificate programme.
The Understanding will become operational when a critical mass of countries join the process. Some CARICOM countries have already joined, and Antigua and Barbuda’s participation will proceed strictly in accordance with its national laws, institutional capacity, and the explicit approval of the Government.
Under the terms of the Understanding, the United States may propose, on a case-by-case basis, the transfer of non-criminal third-country nationals, particularly persons seeking refuge from return to their own countries where they face grave conditions. However, in every single case, the Government of Antigua and Barbuda retains the absolute right of refusal, based on national interest and security considerations.
No third-country national can be transferred to Antigua and Barbuda without the prior assessment, approval, and express consent of the Government. There is no automatic acceptance, no obligation, and no delegation of authority.
In addition, the Government of Antigua and Barbuda has strictly capped any potential acceptances under this Understanding at no more than ten (10) persons per year.
The Understanding is non-binding, creates no legal obligations, and may be terminated at any time with ninety (90) days’ written notice.
The United States is home to the largest refugee resettlement programme in the world, and this Understanding reflects an effort by many countries to help share that burden in a cooperative and orderly manner, in accordance with their respective capacities.
The Government further assures the public that before any decision is taken to operationalize this Understanding, a full public announcement will be made, outlining safeguards and procedures that will be employed.
On the matter of U.S. Visa Bonds & Travel to the United States, Prime Minister Browne pointed out the following to members of the Cabinet:
1) Public Concern
- The Government of Antigua and Barbuda is aware of the public concern following reports that, in limited circumstances, some nationals may be required to post a visa bond when applying for a U.S. visitor visa.
- Government understands the anxiety this has caused and is addressing it directly through diplomatic engagement.
2) What the visa bond does—and does not do
- No bond applies to holders of existing U.S. visas.
- Those visas remain valid under their current terms.
- The visa bond applies only to a very narrow category of new visa applicants under a U.S. Visa Bond Pilot Programme.
- It does not apply to all travellers.
- The bond does not guarantee the issuance of a visa and it does not automatically deny a visa either.
3) What created the issue?
- Antigua and Barbuda, like other countries listed, was not advised in advance of the U.S. public announcement.
- The announcement was made without prior notice even to U.S. embassies accredited to affected countries.
- This lack of notice contributed to uncertainty, which the Government is now working to resolve through direct engagement.
4) U.S. rationale (as indicated by U.S. authorities)
- U.S. authorities have indicated that the purpose of the bond is to encourage compliance with U.S. immigration laws—particularly timely departure from the United States.
5) Behaviour of a few citizens
- Government must be candid: there have been instances of overstays and charges on the U.S. public purse, including unpaid hospital bills, by a small number of nationals.
- Those actions create difficulties not only for the individuals involved, but for all Antiguans and Barbudans who travel legitimately.
6) Government’s action and high-level engagement
- On the instructions of the Prime Minister, Antigua and Barbuda has re-engaged directly with the U.S. State Department at the highest levels.
- A formal diplomatic note has been submitted.
- The Government is working strenuously to achieve a correction of this measure.
7) Antigua and Barbuda’s strong record
- Antigua and Barbuda’s visitor overstay rate is consistently low, and significantly below that of many countries not subject to bond requirements.
- Antigua and Barbuda has also demonstrated long-standing cooperation with the United States on immigration compliance and security matters.
8) Government’s objective
- Government’s objective is clear and fair:
- Antiguan and Barbudan passport holders must be treated no less favourably than nationals of other CARICOM countries.
- Visa processing for citizens must remain fair and reasonable.
9) Ongoing Negotiations:
- Discussions are ongoing on removing restrictions affecting visas for legitimate Antiguan and Barbudan travellers.
- These negotiations are serious, measured, and persistent.
- While international outcomes are never guaranteed, the Government is confident there is room for reason to prevail.
10) Guidance to citizens
- Government urges all citizens travelling abroad to:
- Respect immigration laws fully, including timely departure, and
- Meet all personal obligations.
- The conduct of a few can affect the many.
11) Prime Minister’s Commitment
- The Government remains fully engaged in defending the interests of Antigua and Barbuda and its people.
- The public will continue to be kept informed as discussions progress.
2. Cabinet held discussions on recent counter-drug efforts by the government of the United States of America in Venezuela and Caribbean waters, aimed at disrupting narcotics flows from producing countries to the south. Cabinet voiced its concern of allegations reported in sections of the print and electronic media locally and regionally, that governments and leaders within the Caribbean were corrupted by narco-traffickers. They suggested that Antigua and Barbuda was a primary part of the alleged Caribbean route and that its leader is involved.
While vehemently denying the allegations, Cabinet believes its necessary to reiterate and Reaffirm its Policy Decision of Zero Tolerance on Narco-Trafficking and Criminal Activity.
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda, chaired by Prime Minister the Honourable Gaston Browne, therefore reiterates the Government’s firm policy position on narco-trafficking and related criminal activity, and reaffirm its commitment to maintaining Antigua and Barbuda as a safe, low-crime jurisdiction.
The Cabinet reaffirmed that the Government operates a zero tolerance policy toward individuals engaged in the trafficking, sale, or distribution of illegal drugs, firearms, and other illicit substances. Cabinet emphasized that these activities threaten public safety, undermine national security, and erode social stability.
Cabinet reaffirmed the established policy measures that guide law-enforcement in Antigua and Barbuda:
- Zero Tolerance Enforcement
The Government will not tolerate drug dealers, traffickers, gun runners, or individuals involved in the movement and sale of illegal substances within Antigua and Barbuda.
- Persona Non Grata and Immediate Consequences
Individuals identified as being involved in narco-trafficking, illegal firearms, or other illicit criminal activity will be branded as persona non grata, and will be subject to the fullest extent of the law, including:- Deportation where applicable,
- Incarceration where applicable, and
- Fines and penalties upon arrest, prosecution, and conviction.
- Strengthened Law Enforcement Action
Cabinet has directed that law enforcement agencies must continue to do all within their lawful power to ensure Antigua and Barbuda remains a low-crime jurisdiction, and to disrupt and dismantle criminal networks operating domestically or transnationally.
- Protection of Borders and National Security
Cabinet reaffirmed that safeguarding Antigua and Barbuda’s borders is essential to stemming illegal activity and protecting national security. All relevant agencies are required to continue to strengthen border control operations to prevent the importation and movement of illegal drugs, firearms, and other prohibited items.
The Cabinet expressed full confidence in the work of the country’s security and border agencies and reiterated its expectation that enforcement will be pursued vigorously and consistently, in keeping with national laws and the public interest.
The Government of Antigua and Barbuda remains committed to ensuring safe communities, protecting law-abiding citizens, and preserving the nation’s reputation as a secure and stable destination for residents, visitors, and investors alike.
3. The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved the hosting of the Caribbean–European Union (EU) Parliamentary Assembly, scheduled to take place in Antigua and Barbuda from 14 to 20 February 2026.
The Assembly will bring together parliamentary representatives from Caribbean states and the European Union and represents an important opportunity to strengthen political dialogue, parliamentary cooperation, and international partnerships. The hosting of this high-level meeting also aligns strategically with Antigua and Barbuda’s ongoing preparations and institutional readiness for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026.
Cabinet has designated the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as the lead coordinating Ministry for the planning and execution of the Assembly. The Ministry will work closely with the Parliament of Antigua and Barbuda, the Office of the Prime Minister, and all relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, including National Security, Tourism, Immigration, Transport, and Works, to ensure the successful delivery of the event.
In addition, Cabinet approved that the CHOGM 2026 Coordinator, Mrs. Roberts-Morgan, collaborate closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in coordinating and executing the hosting of the Assembly. Existing coordination mechanisms, logistical frameworks, and inter-agency arrangements established for CHOGM 2026 will be utilized to support planning and implementation.
Cabinet has further directed the establishment of an inter-ministerial coordinating mechanism or task force to oversee preparations and ensure the timely fulfillment of all host country obligations.
The Government of Antigua and Barbuda looks forward to welcoming regional and international parliamentary delegates and reaffirming the country’s commitment to diplomacy, multilateral cooperation, and international engagement.
4. The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved a request from the National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) for permission to place District Disaster Command Centres (DDCCs) on designated Crown Lands across Antigua and Barbuda.
The decision forms part of Government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen national disaster preparedness, response, and resilience at the community level. NODS, as the national lead agency for Disaster Risk Management and the coordinating body for the National District Disaster Volunteer Committee system, is implementing this initiative in collaboration with the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA).
The District Disaster Command Centres will be constructed using durable 20-foot and 40-foot cargo-worthy containers and will serve as secure, fully equipped hubs for coordinating disaster response, mobilising volunteer personnel, and supporting disaster mitigation activities within communities. The establishment of one command centre in each district is expected to significantly enhance decentralized coordination and communication during emergencies.
Cabinet granted approval for the placement of these centres at the following locations:
• St. Mary’s South – Bolans Police Station
• St. Philip North – Glanvilles Polyclinic Grounds
• St. Philip South – Newfield Primary School
• Rural South – Golden Grove Police Outpost
• St. George – Pigotts Primary School
• St. Peters – Parham Primary School
• City West – Villa Polyclinic Grounds
• St. Paul – Liberta Primary School
• All Saints West – Sea View Farm Playing Field
• All Saints East and St. Luke – JT Ambrose Primary School
• Rural North – Cedar Grove Clinic Grounds
• City South – Police Headquarters
• St. Mary’s North – Antigua State College
• Rural West – Greenbay Police Station / Clinic Grounds
• Barbuda – Disaster Office Premises
The Cabinet’s approval underscores the Government’s commitment to safeguarding lives, strengthening community-level disaster response capabilities, and improving national resilience to natural hazards.
Implementation of the project will proceed in accordance with established planning, safety, and coordination protocols, with NODS continuing to work closely with relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.
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