View source for Antigua and Barbuda

{{Short description|Country in the Lesser Antilles of the West Indies}}
{{About|the country|its main islands|Antigua|and|Barbuda|other uses|Antigua (disambiguation)|and|Barbuda (disambiguation)}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2020}}
{{Use British English|date=February 2026}}
<!-- *** Do not edit this article to change the capital city, native name, official language, or national anthem without reading the consensus on the talk page first. *** -->
{{Infobox country
| conventional_long_name = Antigua and Barbuda
| languages_type         = [[Vernacular language]]
| languages              = [[Antiguan and Barbudan Creole]]
| languages2_type        = Working language
| common_name            = Antigua and Barbuda
| native_name            = {{native name|aig|Aanteega an' Baabyuuda|paren=omit}} ([[Antiguan and Barbudan Creole]])<!-- *** Do not edit this article to change native name without reading the talk page first. *** -->
| image_flag             = Flag of Antigua and Barbuda.svg
| image_coat             = Coat of arms of Antigua and Barbuda.svg
| symbol_type            = Coat of arms
| national_motto         = "[[Each endeavouring, all achieving]]"
| national_anthem        = "[[Fair Antigua, We Salute Thee]]"{{efn|name=anthem|"Fair Antigua, We Salute Thee" is the ''[[de facto]]'' national anthem of Antigua and Barbuda and is not codified in any legislation as of July 2025. Additionally, Antigua and Barbuda does not have a royal anthem.}}<div style="display:inline-block;margin-top:0.4em;">{{center|[[File:Antigua and Barbuda National Anthem.ogg]]}}</div><!-- *** Do not edit this article to change the anthem without reading the talk page first. *** -->
| image_map              = {{switcher|[[File:ATG orthographic.svg|upright=1.15|frameless]]|Show globe|[[File:Antigua and Barbuda-CIA WFB Map.png|upright=1.15|frameless]]|Show map of Antigua and Barbuda}}
| image_map2             = 
| capital                = [[St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda|St. John's]]{{efn|St. John's is the administrative centre by convention and the city's status is not defined in the law. Most diplomatic missions are located in [[Marble Hill, Antigua and Barbuda|Marble Hill]].<ref name='cia'>[https://web.archive.org/web/20260115003123/https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/antigua-and-barbuda/ Antigua and Barbuda] - CIA World Factbook</ref><ref>[https://www.britannica.com/place/Antigua-and-Barbuda Antigua and Barbuda] - Encyclopaedia Britannica</ref>}}<br />{{Coord|17|7|N|61|51|W|type:city}}
| largest_city           = capital
| admin_center           = 
| admin_center_type      = [[Administrative centre]]
| official_languages     = [[English language|English]]{{efn|English is the official language by convention, and ''de jure'' has no official status. See [[Languages of Antigua and Barbuda]] for more information.<ref name='cia'/>}}
| national_languages     = 
| languages2             = 
| ethnic_groups          = {{vunblist
  |87.3% [[Afro–Antiguans and Barbudans|African]]
|4.7% [[Multiracial Antiguans and Barbudans|Multiracial]]
|2.8% [[Hispanic Antiguans and Barbudans|Hispanic]]
|1.7% [[White Antiguans and Barbudans|European]]
|1.1% [[Indian Antiguans and Barbudans|East Indian]]
|0.7% [[Syrian and Lebanese Antiguans and Barbudans|Syrian or Lebanese]]
|1.8% [[Ethnicity in Antigua and Barbuda|other]]}}
| ethnic_groups_year     = 2011<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://redatam.org/binatg/RpWebUtilities.exe/reporte.pdf?LFN=RpBases%5CTempo%5C85783%5C~tmp_8578301.pdf |title=ECLAC/CELADE Redatam+SP 03/21/2022 |website=redatam.org |access-date=23 March 2022 |archive-date=21 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220321233341/https://redatam.org/binatg/RpWebUtilities.exe/reporte.pdf?LFN=RpBases%5CTempo%5C85783%5C~tmp_8578301.pdf }}</ref>
| religion               = {{ublist |item_style=white-space:nowrap;
|{{Tree list}}
*92.7% [[Christianity]]
**66.6% [[Protestantism]]
**26.1% other [[List of Christian denominations|Christian]]
{{Tree list/end}}
 |3.6% [[Rastafari]]
 |1.9% [[Irreligion|no religion]]
 |1.1% [[Baháʼí Faith]]
 |0.7% other}}
| religion_year          = 2020<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.thearda.com/world-religion/national-profiles?u=10c | title=National Profiles }}</ref>
| demonym                = [[Antiguans and Barbudans|Antiguan and Barbudan]]
| government_type        = Unitary parliamentary [[constitutional monarchy]]
| leader_title1          = [[Monarchy of Antigua and Barbuda|Monarch]]
| leader_title2          = {{nowrap|[[Governor-General of Antigua and Barbuda|Governor-General]]}}
| leader_name1           = [[Charles III]]
| leader_name2           = [[Rodney Williams (governor-general)|Sir Rodney Williams]]
| leader_title3          = [[Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda|Prime Minister]]
| leader_name3           = {{Current prime minister of Antigua and Barbuda}}
| legislature            = [[Parliament of Antigua and Barbuda|Parliament]]
| upper_house            = [[Senate (Antigua and Barbuda)|Senate]]
| lower_house            = {{nowrap|[[House of Representatives (Antigua and Barbuda)|House of Representatives]]}}
| sovereignty_type       = [[History of Antigua and Barbuda|Formation]]
| sovereignty_note       = 
| established_event1     = [[Barbuda (Extension of Laws of Antigua) Act|Union]]
| established_date1      = 1 August 1860
| established_event2     = [[Redonda Annexation Act|Redonda]]
| established_date2      = 26 March 1872
| established_event3     = [[Associated State of Antigua|Associated state]]
| established_date3      = 27 February 1967
| established_event4     = [[Independence of Antigua and Barbuda|Independence]]
| established_date4      = 1 November 1981
| area_km2               = 440
| area_rank              = 182nd <!-- Should match [[List of countries and dependencies by area]] -->
| area_sq_mi             = 170
| percent_water          = negligible
| population_estimate    = {{IncreaseNeutral}} 106,365<ref>{{cite web |url=https://statistics.gov.ag/subjects/population-and-demography/population-projections-by-age-group-annual-1991-2026/ |title=Population projections by age group, annual 1991 to 2026 |publisher=Statistics Division, [[Ministry of Finance and Corporate Governance of Antigua and Barbuda]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220627133401/https://statistics.gov.ag/subjects/population-and-demography/population-projections-by-age-group-annual-1991-2026/ |archive-date=27 June 2022 }}</ref>
| population_census      = {{IncreaseNeutral}} 84,816
| population_estimate_year = 2026
| population_estimate_rank = 182nd
| population_census_year = 2011
| population_density_km2 = 186
| population_density_sq_mi = 481
| GDP_PPP                = {{increase}} $3.3&nbsp;billion
| GDP_PPP_year           = 2025
| GDP_PPP_rank           = 180th
| GDP_PPP_per_capita     = {{increase}} $31,781<ref name=IMF>{{Cite web |title=Antigua and Barbuda |url=https://www.imf.org/external/datamapper/profile/ATG |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=www.imf.org}}</ref>
| GDP_PPP_per_capita_rank = 66th
| GDP_nominal            = {{increase}} $2.37&nbsp;billion
| GDP_nominal_year       = 2025
| GDP_nominal_rank       = 171st
| GDP_nominal_per_capita = {{increase}} $22,630<ref name=IMF />
| GDP_nominal_per_capita_rank = 51st
| Gini                   = 
| Gini_change            = increase
| Gini_ref               = <ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.academia.edu/12127652 |title=An Assessment of Income Inequality and Poverty in Antigua and Barbuda in 2007 |last1=Horsford |first1=Ian |date=27 April 2015 |access-date=23 March 2022 |archive-date=18 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220418001231/https://www.academia.edu/12127652 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cepal.org/sites/default/files/events/files/egm_ppt.pdf |title=Comparison of Poverty measurement indicators |year=2006 |publisher=[[Economic Commission for Latin America]] (ECLA) |access-date=23 March 2022 |archive-date=2 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210502080925/https://www.cepal.org/sites/default/files/events/files/egm_ppt.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>
| HDI                    = 0.851<!-- number only -->
| HDI_year               = 2023<!-- Please use the year to which the data refers, not the publication year -->
| HDI_change             = increase<!-- increase/decrease/steady -->
| HDI_ref                = <ref name="UNHDR">{{cite web|url=https://hdr.undp.org/system/files/documents/global-report-document/hdr2025reporten.pdf|title=Human Development Report 2025|language=en|publisher=[[United Nations Development Programme]]|date=6 May 2025|pages=278–281|access-date=6 May 2025}}</ref>
| HDI_rank               = 53rd
| currency               = [[Eastern Caribbean dollar]]
| currency_code          = XCD
| time_zone              = [[Atlantic Time Zone|AST]]
| utc_offset             = -04:00
| date_format            = {{nowrap|dd/mm/yyyy}}
| drives_on              = [[Left- and right-hand traffic|left]]
| calling_code           = +1
| cctld                  = [[.ag]]
}}

'''Antigua and Barbuda'''{{efn|name=pronounce|{{IPAc-en|æ|n|ˈ|t|iː|ɡ|ə|...|b|ɑːr|ˈ|b|(|j|)|uː|d|ə|audio=LL-Q1860 (eng)-Naomi Persephone Amethyst (NaomiAmethyst)-Antigua and Barbuda.wav}};<ref>{{Cite news |title=How to pronounce Antigua and Barbuda in English |url=https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/pronunciation/english/antigua-and-barbuda |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230222202007/https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/pronunciation/english/antigua-and-barbuda |archive-date=22 February 2023 |access-date=2025-01-04 |language=en-US |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Wells |first=J. C. (John Christopher) |url=https://archive.org/details/longmanpronuncia00jcwe/page/32/mode/2up |title=Longman pronunciation dictionary |date=2000 |publisher=Harlow [England] : Pearson Education Ltd. |others=Internet Archive |isbn=978-0-582-36467-7}}</ref> {{langx|aig|Aanteega an' Baabyuuda|label=[[Antiguan and Barbudan Creole]]}} {{IPA|aig|äːnˈtiːɡə (h)ä̃ bäːˈbjuːdə|}}}} is an [[archipelagic country]] in the [[Caribbean]] composed of [[Antigua]], [[Barbuda]], and [[List of islands of Antigua and Barbuda|numerous other small islands]]. Antigua and Barbuda has a total area of 440&nbsp;km<sup>2</sup> (170 sq mi), making it one of the smallest countries in the Caribbean. The country is mostly flat, with the highest points on Antigua being in the [[Shekerley Mountains]] and on Barbuda the [[Barbuda Highlands|Highlands]]. The country has a tropical savanna climate, with pockets of tropical monsoon in Antigua's southwest. Its most populated city is [[St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda|St. John's]], followed by [[All Saints, Antigua and Barbuda|All Saints]] and [[Bolans]]. Most of the country resides in the [[Central Plain (Antigua)|Central Plain]] that stretches from St. John's to [[English Harbour]].

Bounded by the [[Atlantic Ocean]] on the east and the [[Caribbean Sea]] on the west, Antigua and Barbuda is located within the [[Leeward Islands moist forests|Leeward Islands moist forest]] and [[Leeward Islands xeric scrub]] [[ecoregion]]s. The country shares [[Maritime boundary|maritime borders]] with [[Anguilla]], [[Saint Barthélemy]], and [[Saint Kitts and Nevis]] to the west, [[Montserrat]] to the southwest, and [[Guadeloupe]] to the south. Antigua and Barbuda has numerous natural parks, including [[Codrington Lagoon]], one of the largest internal bodies of water in the [[Lesser Antilles]]. Despite its dense population, the country has large swaths of undeveloped land, however, Antigua and Barbuda has experienced many [[Environmental issues in Antigua and Barbuda|environmental issues]] due to [[climate change]].
 
[[Hunter-gatherers]] settled the islands starting around 3000 BC, likely arriving on canoes from Central and South America. They were followed by the [[Arawaks]] of [[Venezuela]] during the [[Pre-Columbian Antigua and Barbuda|Ceramic Period]]. In 1493, [[Christopher Columbus]] surveyed the island of Antigua, which resulted in an attempt at Spanish settlement in 1520. Antigua remained uncolonised until 1632 when Edward Warner and his small party created the first successful British colony. Barbuda was under the control of the [[Codrington baronets|Codrington family]] until the 1860s. Antiguan independence was first proposed by [[Prince Klaas]] in 1728, who attempted to make the island an independent kingdom. After emancipation in 1834, Antigua's autonomy slowly increased, while Barbuda was slowly integrated into Antigua. The first democratic elections were held in 1951, and by 1981, Antigua and Barbuda was independent. From 1960 until 2004, the Bird family dominated the [[Politics of Antigua and Barbuda|archipelago's politics]] with only one interruption, which ended with the election of [[Baldwin Spencer (politician)|Baldwin Spencer]] to the premiership.
 
[[History of Antigua and Barbuda (2014–present)|Since 2014]], the [[Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party|Labour Party]] has dominated national politics. Antigua and Barbuda is a member of the [[Commonwealth of Nations|Commonwealth]] and a [[Commonwealth realm]], being a [[constitutional monarchy]] with [[Charles III]] as its head of state. The country is a [[unitary state]], with Barbuda being administered by the [[Barbuda Council]] since 1976. Antigua is divided into six [[Parishes of Antigua|parishes]]. The [[Government of Antigua and Barbuda|central government]] is composed of three main branches: [[Parliament of Antigua and Barbuda|legislative]], [[Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda|executive]], and [[Judiciary of Antigua and Barbuda|judicial]]. It has a [[bicameralism|bicameral]] national legislature comprising the directly elected [[House of Representatives (Antigua and Barbuda)|House of Representatives]] and the [[Senate (Antigua and Barbuda)|Senate]] appointed by the [[Governor-General of Antigua and Barbuda|Governor-General]], the representative of the monarch. The Labour Party and the [[United Progressive Party]] have dominated the country's politics since [[1994 Antiguan general election|1994]]. The country has a [[List of sovereign states by immigrant and emigrant population|proportionally high foreign-born population]]; most people are [[Afro–Antiguans and Barbudans|of African descent]], with significant populations of [[White Antiguans and Barbudans|Europeans]], [[Hispanic Antiguans and Barbudans|Hispanics]], and [[Indian Antiguans and Barbudans|Indians]]. The country is majority Christian, with most being [[Protestant]]. The most spoken home language in the country is [[Antiguan and Barbudan Creole]]. Compared to neighboring countries, Antigua and Barbuda [[International rankings of Antigua and Barbuda|ranks highly]] in most economic indicators, and ranks about average in political freedoms.

Antigua and Barbuda is a high-income country and is the most developed country in the Caribbean by [[Human Development Index]]. It is a member of the [[United Nations]], the [[OECS]], the [[Regional Security System]], [[CARICOM]], and the [[World Trade Organization|World Trade Organisation]]. Antigua and Barbuda is one of the only countries in the Caribbean to maintain an [[Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force Air Wing|air force]], and has a mostly service-based [[economy of Antigua and Barbuda|economy]]. Antigua and Barbuda maintains significant influence in the former [[British Leeward Islands]] and the eastern Caribbean, having the largest economy and population in the former colony. However, the country continues to struggle with human rights and political polarisation, with a significant [[Barbudan independence movement]] re-emerging and [[Human rights in Antigua and Barbuda#Freedom of the press|declining freedom of the press]].

== Etymology ==
{{lang|es|Antigua}} is Spanish for 'ancient' and {{lang|es|barbuda}} is Spanish for 'bearded'.<ref name=Factbook /> The island of Antigua was originally called {{lang|tnq|Waladli}} by the [[Arawak]]s, and the [[Island Caribs|Caribs]] possibly called Barbuda {{lang|crb|Wa'omoni}}. [[Christopher Columbus]], while sailing by in 1493, may have named it {{lang|es|Santa Maria la Antigua}}, after an icon in the Spanish [[Seville Cathedral]]. The "bearded" of Barbuda is thought to refer either to the male inhabitants of the island, or the bearded fig trees present there.<ref>{{Cite web |last=IT |date=2020-03-03 |title=History Of Antigua – Antigua And Barbuda |url=https://embassy.ag/dario-item-antigua-barbuda-antigua-barbuda-history/ |access-date=2022-07-19 |website=Antigua and Barbuda Embassy in Madrid – Ambassador Dario Item |language=en-US}}</ref> The term {{lang|aig|Wadadli}} is a corrupted form of the original Arawak name, emerging from a misspelling in a popular 1970s song. The term is sometimes used in Antiguan and Barbudan Creole to refer to the island's original name.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Barzey |first=Ursula Petula |date=2019-03-05 |title=Exploring The Historic City Of St John's Antigua |url=https://www.caribbeanandco.com/city-of-st-johns-antigua/ |access-date=2025-04-20 |website=Caribbean & Co. |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name="Reg">{{cite web |author=Murphy, Reg |title=Common Myths |url=http://www.archaeologyantigua.org/index.php/archaeological-background/common-myths |access-date=4 September 2014 |work=Archaeology Antigua |at=Waladli versus Wadadli}}</ref> {{lang|aig|Aanteega an' Baabyuuda}} is the Creole endonym for the country, deriving from the English name.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2025-02-03 |title=Antiguan and Barbudan Creole orthography |url=https://www.axarplex.com/items/antiguan-and-barbudan-creole-orthography |access-date=2025-12-27 |website=Axarplex |language=en}}</ref>

==History==
{{Main|History of Antigua and Barbuda}}

===Pre-colonial period===
{{Main|Pre-Columbian Antigua and Barbuda}}

[[Archaic period (North America)|Archaic-period]] hunter-gatherers called the [[Ciboney]] were the first culture present in Antigua and Barbuda.<ref name=Factbook /><ref name=Britannica>{{cite encyclopedia |url=https://www.britannica.com/place/Antigua-and-Barbuda |encyclopedia=Encyclopædia Britannica |title=Antigua and Barbuda |last1=Niddrie |first1=David Lawrence |last2=Momsen |first2=Janet D. |last3=Tolson |first3=Richard |access-date=8 July 2019 |archive-date=3 April 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190403214208/https://www.britannica.com/place/Antigua-and-Barbuda |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Commonwealth>{{cite web |url=http://thecommonwealth.org/our-member-countries/antigua-and-barbuda/history |publisher=The Commonwealth |title=Antigua and Barbuda: History |access-date=8 July 2019 |archive-date=24 June 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190624235053/http://thecommonwealth.org/our-member-countries/antigua-and-barbuda/history |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Radiocarbon dating|Carbon dating]] has established the earliest settlements started around 3100 BC.<ref>{{Cite journal|last1=Napolitano|first1=Matthew F.|last2=DiNapoli|first2=Robert J.|last3=Stone|first3=Jessica H.|last4=Levin|first4=Maureece J.|last5=Jew|first5=Nicholas P.|last6=Lane|first6=Brian G.|last7=O'Connor|first7=John T.|last8=Fitzpatrick|first8=Scott M.|date=2019-12-18|title=Reevaluating human colonization of the Caribbean using chronometric hygiene and Bayesian modeling|journal=Science Advances|volume=5|issue=12|article-number=eaar7806|doi=10.1126/sciadv.aar7806|issn=2375-2548|pmc=6957329|pmid=31976370|bibcode=2019SciA....5R7806N}}</ref> They were succeeded by the ceramic age pre-Columbian [[Arawakan languages|Arawak]]-speaking [[Saladoid]] people who migrated from the lower [[Orinoco River]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Caribbean Trade and Networks (U.S. National Park Service) |url=https://www.nps.gov/articles/caribbean-trade-and-networks.htm |access-date=2022-07-19 |website=nps.gov |language=en}}</ref> They introduced agriculture, raising, among other crops, the [[Antigua black pineapple]] (''[[Ananas comosus]]''), [[maize|corn]], [[sweet potato]]es, [[chili pepper|chillies]], [[guava]], tobacco, and cotton.<ref>Duval, D. T. (1996). Saladoid archaeology on St. Vincent, West Indies: results of the 1993/1994 University of Manitoba survey</ref> Later on the [[Island Caribs|Caribs]] settled the island.<ref>{{cite web |title=Archaeologists say early Caribbeans were not 'savage cannibals', as colonists wrote|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/apr/24/archeology-caribbean-carib-people-cannibalism-colonial-history-wrong|last=Handy|first=Gemma|location=English Harbor, Antigua|date=24 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240822165049/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/apr/24/archeology-caribbean-carib-people-cannibalism-colonial-history-wrong|url-status=live|archive-date=22 August 2024|work=The Guardian}}</ref>

[[File:The Mill Yard - Ten Views in the Island of Antigua (1823), plate V - BL.jpg|thumb|left|Antigua in 1823]]

===European arrival and slavery===
[[Christopher Columbus]] was the first European to sight the islands in 1493.<ref name=Britannica /><ref name=Commonwealth /> The Spanish did not colonise Antigua until after a combination of European and African diseases, malnutrition, and slavery eventually extirpated most of the native population; [[smallpox]] was probably the greatest killer.<ref>{{cite book| last = Austin Alchon| first = Suzanne| title = A pest in the land: new world epidemics in a global perspective| url = https://books.google.com/books?id=YiHHnV08ebkC&pg=PA62| year = 2003| publisher = University of New Mexico Press| isbn = 0-8263-2871-7| pages = 62–63| access-date = 11 September 2020| archive-date = 29 November 2021| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211129165420/https://books.google.com/books?id=YiHHnV08ebkC&pg=PA62| url-status = live}}</ref>

The English settled on Antigua in 1632;<ref name=Commonwealth /><ref name=Britannica /> Christopher Codrington settled on Barbuda in 1685.<ref name=Commonwealth /><ref name=Britannica /> Tobacco and then sugar was grown, worked by a large population of slaves transported from West Africa, who soon came to vastly outnumber the European settlers.<ref name=Britannica />

===Colonial era===
The English maintained control of the islands, repulsing an attempted French attack in 1666.<ref name=Britannica /> The brutal conditions endured by the slaves led to revolts in 1701 and 1729 and a planned revolt in 1736, the last led by [[Prince Klaas]], though it was discovered before it began and the ringleaders were executed.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/antiguas-disputed-slave-conspiracy-of-1736-117569/ |title=Antigua's Disputed Slave Conspiracy of 1736 |access-date=8 July 2019 |archive-date=8 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190708151331/https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/antiguas-disputed-slave-conspiracy-of-1736-117569/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-08-31 |title=ANTIGUAN SLAVE REVOLT 1735-1736 |url=https://legacyofrevolution.wordpress.com/antiguan-slave-revolt-1735-1736/ |access-date=2025-05-08 |website=Water, Fire & Ash |language=en}}</ref> [[Slavery]] was abolished in the British Empire in 1833, affecting the economy.<ref name=Commonwealth /><ref name=Britannica /> This was exacerbated by natural disasters such as the 1843 earthquake and the 1847 hurricane.<ref name=Britannica /> Mining occurred on the isle of [[Redonda]], however, this ceased in 1929 and the island has since remained uninhabited.<ref name="kras-2008">{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=TnItHSAgevMC&pg=PA18|page=18|title=Antigua and Barbuda|first=Sara Louise|last=Kras|publisher=Marshall Cavendish|year=2008|isbn=978-0-7614-2570-0|series=Cultures of the World|volume=26|quote=a cableway using baskets was built to transfer the mined phosphate to a pier for shipping|access-date=11 September 2020|archive-date=18 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210418004906/https://books.google.com/books?id=TnItHSAgevMC&pg=PA18|url-status=live}}</ref>

Part of the Leeward Islands colony, Antigua and Barbuda became part of the short-lived [[West Indies Federation]] from 1958 to 1962.<ref name=Commonwealth /><ref name=Britannica /><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-10-23 |title=History of Antigua - Dadli Directory |url=https://dadlidirectory.com/history-of-antigua/ |access-date=2025-05-08 |website=dadlidirectory.com |language=en-US}}</ref> Antigua and Barbuda subsequently became an associated state of the United Kingdom with full internal autonomy on 27 February 1967.<ref name=Britannica /> The 1970s were dominated by discussions as to the islands' future and the rivalry between [[Vere Bird]] of the [[Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party]] (ABLP) (Premier from 1967 to 1971 and 1976 to 1981) and the [[Progressive Labour Movement]] (PLM) of [[George Walter]] (Premier 1971–1976). Eventually, Antigua and Barbuda gained full independence on 1 November 1981; Vere Bird became prime minister of the new country.<ref name=Britannica /> The country opted to remain within the [[Commonwealth of Nations|Commonwealth]], retaining [[Elizabeth II]] ({{reign|1952|2022}}) as [[Monarchy of Antigua and Barbuda|head of state]], with the first [[List of colonial governors and administrators of Antigua#Governors of Antigua and Barbuda (1967–1981)|governor]], [[Wilfred Jacobs|Sir Wilfred Jacobs]], as [[Governor-general of Antigua and Barbuda|governor-general]]. Succeeding [[Wilfred Jacobs]] were [[James Carlisle]] (1993–2007), [[Louise Lake-Tack]] (2007–2014), and the present since 2014 being [[Rodney Williams (governor-general)|Rodney Williams]].

[[File:1953 Antigua stamps.jpg|thumb|upright=1.25|Queen Elizabeth II on 1953 Antiguan stamps]]

===Independence era===
The first two decades of Antigua's independence were dominated politically by the Bird family and the ABLP, with [[Vere Bird]] ruling from 1981 to 1994, followed by his son [[Lester Bird]] from 1994 to 2004.<ref name=Britannica /> Though providing a degree of political stability, and boosting tourism to the country, the Bird governments were frequently accused of corruption, cronyism and financial malfeasance.<ref name=Commonwealth /><ref name=Britannica /> [[Vere Bird Jr.]], the elder son, was forced to leave the cabinet in 1990 following a [[Guns for Antigua|scandal]] in which he was accused of smuggling Israeli weapons to Colombian drug-traffickers.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=bAsgAAAAIBAJ&pg=1313,5601929|title=Antiguan Quits in Weapons Scandal|date=26 April 1990|work=Sun-Journal|access-date=4 July 2011|archive-date=31 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220531122652/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=bAsgAAAAIBAJ&pg=1313,5601929|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Antigua-Barbuda: Government Finally Orders Probe of Arms Shipment|date=25 April 1990|work=IPS-Inter Press Service}}</ref><ref name=Commonwealth /> Another son, [[Ivor Bird]], was convicted of possessing [[cocaine]] in 1995.<ref>{{cite news|title=Younger Brother of Prime Minister Lester Bird Is Arrested on Cocaine Charges|last=Massiah|first=David|date=7 May 1995|work=Associated Press Worldstream|agency=Associated Press}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Prime Minister Lester Bird Promises No Intervention in Brother's Arrest|last=Massiah|first=David|date=8 May 1995|work=Associated Press Worldstream|agency=Associated Press}}</ref> Also in 1995, [[Hurricane Luis]] caused severe damage on Barbuda.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://anumetservice.wordpress.com/2015/09/05/20th-anniversary-of-hurricane-luis/|title=20th Anniversary of Hurricane Luis|date=5 September 2015|website=Anumetservice.wordpress.com|access-date=30 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170912011401/https://anumetservice.wordpress.com/2015/09/05/20th-anniversary-of-hurricane-luis/|archive-date=12 September 2017}}</ref>

The ABLP's dominance of Antiguan politics ended with the [[2004 Antiguan general election]], which was won by [[Winston Baldwin Spencer|Baldwin Spencer]]'s [[United Progressive Party]] (UPP).<ref name=Britannica /> Winston Baldwin Spencer was [[Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda]] from 2004 to 2014.<ref>{{cite web |title=Caribbean Elections Biography {{!}} Winston Baldwin Spencer |url=http://www.caribbeanelections.com/knowledge/biography/bios/spencer_baldwin.asp |website=www.caribbeanelections.com |access-date=29 December 2021 |archive-date=25 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211225020401/http://www.caribbeanelections.com/knowledge/biography/bios/spencer_baldwin.asp |url-status=live }}</ref> However, the UPP lost the [[2014 Antiguan general election]], with the ABLP returning to power under [[Gaston Browne]].<ref name="bald">{{cite web |last=Charles |first=Jacqueline |url=http://www.miamiherald.com/2014/06/13/4175779/antigua-prime-minister-baldwin.html |title=Browne becomes new prime minister of Antigua, youngest ever |work=The Miami Herald |access-date=14 June 2014 |archive-date=14 July 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714173815/http://www.miamiherald.com/2014/06/13/4175779/antigua-prime-minister-baldwin.html |url-status=live }}</ref> ABLP won 15 of the 17 seats in the [[2018 Antiguan general election|2018 snap election]] under the leadership of incumbent Prime Minister Gaston Browne.<ref>{{cite news |title=Speculation about early election in Antigua |url=https://barbadostoday.bb/2021/06/12/speculation-about-early-election-in-antigua/ |work=Barbados Today |date=12 June 2021 |access-date=29 December 2021 |archive-date=18 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211218232206/https://barbadostoday.bb/2021/06/12/speculation-about-early-election-in-antigua/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

In 2015, Antigua and Barbuda established the Marine Ecosystem Protected Areas (MEPA) Trust, a mechanism for funding marine conservation and supporting local environmental efforts,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Marine Ecosystem Protected Areas (MEPA) Trust Inc - CPDC NGO Directory |url=https://ngo.cpdcngo.org/listing/marine-ecosystem-protected-areas-mepa-trust-inc/ |access-date=2025-12-23 |language=en-US}}</ref> alongside the national Environmental Protection and Management Act (EPMA) to create a framework for sustaining marine protected areas and their biodiversity.<ref>{{Cite web |date=6 June 2019 |title=Environmental Protection and Management Act, 2019 |url=https://laws.gov.ag/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/No.-10-of-2019-Environmental-Protection-and-Management-2019.pdf |access-date=23 December 2025 |website=Antigua and Barbuda Law |pages=15-17}}</ref> In 2016, [[Nelson's Dockyard]] was designated as a [[UNESCO World Heritage Site]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Nelson's Dockyard in Antigua now a Unesco heritage site: Travel Weekly |url=https://www.travelweekly.com/Caribbean-Travel/Nelsons-Dockyard-in-Antigua-now-a-Unesco-heritage-site |work=travelweekly.com |language=en}}</ref>

Most of Barbuda was devastated in early September 2017 by [[Hurricane Irma]], which brought winds with speeds reaching 295&nbsp;km/h (185&nbsp;mph). The storm damaged or destroyed 95% of the island's buildings and infrastructure, leaving Barbuda "barely habitable" according to Prime Minister Gaston Browne. Nearly everyone on the island was evacuated to Antigua.<ref name="auto">{{Cite news |last1=Panzar |first1=Javier |last2=Willsher |first2=Kim |date=9 September 2017 |title=Hurricane Irma leaves Caribbean Islands Devastated |url=http://www.latimes.com/nation/la-na-irma-islands-20170909-story.html |work=[[Los Angeles Times]] |access-date=11 September 2017 |archive-date=11 September 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170911024806/http://www.latimes.com/nation/la-na-irma-islands-20170909-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Amidst the following rebuilding efforts on Barbuda that were estimated to cost at least $100&nbsp;million,<ref name="time.com">{{cite magazine|url=https://time.com/4935433/hurricane-irma-barbuda-antigua-survivors-caribbean/|title=Hurricane Irma Flattens Barbuda, Leaving Population Stranded|first=Tara|last=John|date=11 September 2017|magazine=Time|access-date=1 September 2020|archive-date=7 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807130608/https://time.com/4935433/hurricane-irma-barbuda-antigua-survivors-caribbean/|url-status=live}}</ref> the government announced plans to revoke a century-old law of [[communal land|communal land ownership]] by allowing residents to buy land; a move that has been criticised as promoting "[[disaster capitalism]]".<ref name="NACLA-disaster-capitalism">{{cite news |last1=Boger |first1=Rebecca |last2=Perdikaris |first2=Sophia |title=After Irma, Disaster Capitalism Threatens Cultural Heritage in Barbuda |url=https://nacla.org/news/2019/02/12/after-irma-disaster-capitalism-threatens-cultural-heritage-barbuda |access-date=1 September 2020 |work=[[NACLA]] |date=11 February 2019 |language=en |archive-date=25 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211225153657/https://nacla.org/news/2019/02/12/after-irma-disaster-capitalism-threatens-cultural-heritage-barbuda |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Geography==
{{Main|Geography of Antigua and Barbuda}}

{{Location map many |Antigua and Barbuda
|width    = 300
|caption  = Antigua and Barbuda
|lat1_deg = 17.083333
|lon1_deg = -61.8
|label1   = [[Antigua]]
|lat2_deg = 17.616667
|lon2_deg = -61.8
|label2   = [[Barbuda]]
|lat3_deg = 16.938889
|lon3_deg = -62.341667
|label3   = [[Redonda]]
}}
[[File:Barbuda in 2025-E 08.jpg|thumb|Antiguan city lights seen from the [[South Coast, Barbuda|South Coast]] of Barbuda. Light pollution is a major problem in the country.<ref>https://www.antiguanice.com/client.php?id=920&news=10952</ref>|300x300px]]
Limestone formations, rather than volcanic activity, have had the most impact on the topography of both Antigua and Barbuda, which are both relatively low-lying islands. Boggy Peak, also known as Mt. Obama from 2008 to 2016, is the highest point on both Antigua and Barbuda. It is the remnant of a volcanic crater and rises a total of 402 meters. Boggy Peak is located in the southwest of Antigua (1,319 feet).<ref name=Factbook /><ref name=Britannica />

Both of these islands have very irregularly shaped coastlines that are dotted with beaches, lagoons, and natural harbours. There are reefs and shoals that surround the islands on all sides. Because of the low amount of rainfall, there are not many streams. On neither of these islands can sufficient quantities of fresh groundwater be found.<ref name=Factbook />

Redonda is a small, uninhabited island located about 40 kilometres (25 miles) to the south-west of Antigua. Redonda is a rocky island.<ref name=Britannica />

In Antigua and Barbuda, [[forest cover]] is about 18% of the total land area, equivalent to 8,120 ha of forests in 2020, down from 10,110 ha in 1990.<ref>{{Cite book |url=https://openknowledge.fao.org/server/api/core/bitstreams/a6e225da-4a31-4e06-818d-ca3aeadfd635/content |title=Terms and Definitions FRA 2025 Forest Resources Assessment, Working Paper 194 |publisher=Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations |year=2023}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Global Forest Resources Assessment 2020, Antigua and Barbuda |url=https://fra-data.fao.org/assessments/fra/2020/ATG/home/overview |website=Food Agriculture Organization of the United Nations}}</ref>

===Islands===
{{Further|List of islands of Antigua and Barbuda}}
Antigua and Barbuda consists mostly of its two namesake islands, [[Antigua]], and [[Barbuda]]. Other than that, Antigua and Barbuda's biggest islands are Guiana Island and Long Island off the coast of Antigua, and [[Redonda]] island, which is far from both of the main islands.

=== Climate ===
Rainfall averages {{convert|990|mm|in|0|abbr=on}} per year, with the amount varying widely from season to season. In general, the wettest period is between September and November. The islands generally experience low humidity and recurrent droughts. Temperatures average {{convert|27|°C|1}}, with a range from {{convert|23|°C|1}} to {{convert|29|°C|1}} in the winter to from {{convert|25|°C|1}} to {{convert|30|°C|1}} in the summer and autumn. The coolest period is between December and February.

[[Hurricane]]s are common, including the powerful [[Category 5 hurricane|Category 5]] [[Hurricane Irma]], on 6 September 2017, which damaged 95% of the structures on Barbuda.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.cnn.com/2017/09/06/us/hurricane-irma-puerto-rico-florida/index.html |title=Hurricane Irma: Powerful storm blamed for three deaths |first1=Jason |last1=Hanna |first2=Joe |last2=Sterling |first3=Steve |last3=Almasy |work=ABS TV Radio Antigua & Barbuda |publisher=CNN |date=6 September 2017 |access-date=6 September 2017 |archive-date=24 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180624010702/https://www.cnn.com/2017/09/06/us/hurricane-irma-puerto-rico-florida/index.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Some 1,800 people were evacuated to Antigua.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.latimes.com/nation/la-na-irma-islands-20170909-story.html|title=Hurricane Irma leaves Caribbean islands devastated|first=Javier|last=Panzar|date=9 September 2017|work=Los Angeles Times|access-date=11 September 2017|archive-date=11 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170911110633/http://www.latimes.com/nation/la-na-irma-islands-20170909-story.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

Officials quoted by ''[[Time (magazine)|Time]]'' indicated that over $100&nbsp;million would be required to rebuild homes and infrastructure. Philmore Mullin, Director of Barbuda's National Office of Disaster Services, said that "all critical infrastructure and utilities are non-existent – food supply, medicine, shelter, electricity, water, communications, waste management". He summarised the situation as follows: "Public utilities need to be rebuilt in their entirety... It is optimistic to think anything can be rebuilt in six months ... In my 25 years in disaster management, I have never seen something like this."<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://time.com/4935433/hurricane-irma-barbuda-antigua-survivors-caribbean/|title='There Is No Home to Go Back to.' Hurricane Irma Flattens Barbuda, Leaving Population Stranded|first=Tara /|last=John|magazine=Time|access-date=11 September 2017|archive-date=11 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170911201738/http://time.com/4935433/hurricane-irma-barbuda-antigua-survivors-caribbean/|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Environmental issues ===
{{Excerpt|Environmental issues in Antigua and Barbuda}}

==Demographics==
{{Main|Demographics of Antigua and Barbuda|Antiguans and Barbudans}}

[[File:Population density map of Antigua, 2011.svg|thumb|Population density map of Antigua in 2011]]
The [[National Bureau of Statistics (Antigua and Barbuda)|National Bureau of Statistics]] estimated a population of 106,365 in 2026, making Antigua and Barbuda one of the least populated countries in the Caribbean. This is an increase of 24% from the 2011 census.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Population projection at mid-year estimates 2011 to 2025 |url=https://statistics.gov.ag/subjects/population-and-demography/population-projection-at-mid-year-estimates-2011-2025/ |website=National Bureau of Statistics}}</ref> Between 2008 and 2020, Antigua and Barbuda had an average of 1,188 live births per year, or one birth every seven hours.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Birth and infant mortality rates 2001 to 2020 |url=https://statistics.gov.ag/subjects/population-and-demography/birth-and-infant-mortality-rates-2001-2020/ |website=National Bureau of Statistics}}</ref> In 2011, 62% of Antiguans and Barbudans aged fifteen or over were never married, 27% were married, 5% were divorced or separated, and 3% were widowed.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Q101 Marital Status |url=https://redatam.org/redatg/tempo/3449/~tmp_344901.pdf |website=REDATAM Webserver|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250412014311/https://redatam.org/redatg/tempo/3449/~tmp_344901.pdf |archive-date=12 April 2025 }}</ref> In 2022, the [[total fertility rate]] stood at 1.6 children per woman, significantly lower than the average of Caribbean small states.<ref>{{Cite web |title=World Bank Open Data |url=https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SP.DYN.TFRT.IN?locations=AG |access-date=2025-04-12 |website=World Bank Open Data}}</ref> The main driver of population growth in Antigua and Barbuda is immigration.<ref name=":4">{{Cite book |url=https://statistics.gov.ag/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/2011-Antigua-and-Barbuda-Population-and-Housing-Census-A-Demographic-Profile.pdf |title=2011 Population and Housing Census}}</ref>

Antigua and Barbuda's population density of 211 people per square kilometre is considerably low for the region, with Barbuda being among the least densely populated islands in the Caribbean.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Antigua and Barbuda Population Density 1961-2025 {{!}} MacroTrends |url=https://www.macrotrends.net/global-metrics/countries/ATG/antigua-and-barbuda/population-density |access-date=2025-04-12 |website=www.macrotrends.net}}</ref> Antigua and Barbuda is one of the least urbanized countries in the world, with only 24% of the country inhabiting an urban area in 2023. The rural population is considered to be growing.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Antigua and Barbuda - urbanization 2012-2022 {{!}} Statista |url=https://www.statista.com/statistics/731105/urbanization-in-antigua-and-barbuda/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240725070432/https://www.statista.com/statistics/731105/urbanization-in-antigua-and-barbuda/ |archive-date=25 July 2024 |access-date=2025-04-12 |website=Statista |language=en |url-status=live }}</ref> Most of the country resides in the Central Plain that streches between St. John's and English Harbour.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-09-03 |title=Antigua and Barbuda: Baseline population (30 Aug 2024) - Antigua and Barbuda {{!}} ReliefWeb |url=https://reliefweb.int/map/antigua-and-barbuda/antigua-and-barbuda-baseline-population-30-aug-2024 |access-date=2025-04-12 |website=reliefweb.int |language=en}}</ref> The centre of population for 2011 was in [[St. Claire, Antigua and Barbuda|St. Claire]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Joseph |first=Geraldine |date=2025-04-17 |title=Centre of population of Antigua, 2011 |url=https://www.axarplex.com/items/centre-of-population-of-antigua-2011 |access-date=2025-12-27 |website=Axarplex |language=en}}</ref>

In 2011, the majority of Antiguan and Barbudan homes were detached (84%), with eight percent being apartments or condos, and the remainder primarily being duplexes or townhouses.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Type of dwelling |url=https://redatam.org/redatg/tempo/3449/~tmp_344931.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250412020508/https://redatam.org/redatg/tempo/3449/~tmp_344931.pdf |archive-date=12 April 2025 }}</ref> Forty-five percent of homes were owned outright, thirty percent were rented private, and thirteen percent were owned with a mortgage.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Type of ownership |url=https://redatam.org/redatg/tempo/3449/~tmp_344961.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250412020803/https://redatam.org/redatg/tempo/3449/~tmp_344961.pdf |archive-date=12 April 2025 }}</ref>

{{Largest cities
| country       = Antigua and Barbuda
| stat_ref      = 2011 Antiguan and Barbudan census
| list_by_pop   = List of settlements in Antigua and Barbuda by population
| div_name      = 
| kind          = settlements

| city_1  = St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}St. John's|| div_1  = Saint John, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Saint John|| pop_1  = 24,451
| city_2  = All Saints, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}All Saints|| div_2  = Parishes of Antigua{{!}}Multiple  | pop_2  = 3,438
| city_3  = Bolans|| div_3  = Saint Mary, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Saint Mary|| pop_3  = 2,053
| city_4  = Liberta, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Liberta|| div_4  = Saint Paul, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Saint Paul|| pop_4  = 2,003
| city_5  = Piggotts|| div_5  = Saint George, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Saint George|| pop_5  = 1,931
| city_6  = Swetes|| div_6  = Saint Paul, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Saint Paul|| pop_6  = 1,720
| city_7  = Jennings, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Jennings|| div_7  = Saint Mary, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Saint Mary|| pop_7  = 1,481
| city_8  = Clare Hall, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Clare Hall|| div_8  = Saint John, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Saint John|| pop_8  = 1,459
| city_9  = Willikies|| div_9  = Saint Philip, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Saint Philip|| pop_9  = 1,270
| city_10 = Old Road, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Old Road|| div_10 = Saint Mary, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Saint Mary|| pop_10 = 1,251
| city_11 = Montclear|| div_11 = Saint John, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Saint John|| pop_11 = 1,246
| city_12 = Skyline, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Skyline|| div_12 = Saint John, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Saint John|| pop_12 = 1,212
| city_13 = Jacks Hill, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Jacks Hill|| div_13 = Saint John, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Saint John|| pop_13 = 1,151
| city_14 = Potters Village|| div_14 = Saint John, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Saint John|| pop_14 = 1,116
| city_15 = Parham, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Parham|| div_15 = Saint Peter, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Saint Peter|| pop_15 = 1,084
| city_16 = Sugar Factory, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Sugar Factory|| div_16 = Saint George, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Saint George|| pop_16 = 1,051
| city_17 = Bendals|| div_17 = Saint John, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Saint John|| pop_17 = 973
| city_18 = Cedar Grove, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Cedar Grove|| div_18 = Saint John, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Saint John|| pop_18 = 934
| city_19 = St. Claire, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}St. Claire|| div_19 = Saint John, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Saint John|| pop_19 = 898
| city_20 = Freemans, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Freemans|| div_20 = Saint Peter, Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Saint Peter|| pop_20 = 860
|div_link=Parishes and dependencies of Antigua and Barbuda{{!}}Parish}}

===Ethnicity===
{{Main|Ethnicity in Antigua and Barbuda}}

[[File:Largest ethnic group by enumeration district (2011).svg|thumb|Largest ethnic group by enumeration district in Antigua, 2011{{Legend-col|{{legend|#999999ff|African}}|{{legend|#FF0000|White}}|{{legend|#000080|Other mixed}}|{{legend|#000000|Uninhabited}}
}}]]
Respondents in the 2011 census self-reported over fifteen ethnic identities.<ref name=":4" /> In order of population, the major pan-ethnic groups chosen were [[Afro–Antiguans and Barbudans|African]] (87.27%), [[Multiracial Antiguans and Barbudans|other mixed]] (3.80%), [[Hispanic Antiguans and Barbudans|Hispanic]] (2.75%), [[White Antiguans and Barbudans|white]] (1.65%), [[Indian Antiguans and Barbudans|Indian (India)]] (1.11%), other (0.94%), [[Mixed Antiguans and Barbudans|mixed black/white]] (0.93%), not stated (0.88%), and [[Syrian and Lebanese Antiguans and Barbudans|Syrian or Lebanese]] (0.67%).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Q48 Ethnic |url=https://redatam.org/redatg/tempo/121816/~tmp_12181602.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241214203202/https://redatam.org/redatg/tempo/121816/~tmp_12181602.pdf |archive-date=14 December 2024}}</ref> The following groups were put in the category of "other": Amerindian (0.37% of the total population), Chinese (0.17%), Asian (0.14%), and Portuguese (0.11%). The remaining were some other ethnicity (0.13%).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Census 2011 Book of Statistical Tables |url=https://statistics.gov.ag/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Census-2011-Book-of-Statistical-Tables-I.pdf}}</ref>

By proportion, Antigua and Barbuda has the highest foreign-born population in the Americas, with [[Immigration to Antigua and Barbuda|immigrants making up 30% of the population]] in 2011. Due to this high immigrant population, people among the African descendant population tend to identify with place of origin rather than with their ethnicity. The largest immigrant groups in Antigua and Barbuda are [[Guyanese Antiguans and Barbudans|Guyanese]] (7.12%), [[Jamaicans]] (5.22%), [[Dominica]] (4.31%), [[Americans]] (3.07%), and [[Dominican Republic]] (2.46%).<ref name=":06">{{Cite web |title=Country of birth |url=https://redatam.org/redatg/tempo/46442/~tmp_4644201.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241215150503/https://redatam.org/redatg/tempo/46442/~tmp_4644201.pdf |archive-date=15 December 2024}}</ref> Most immigrants to the country are of African ethnicity, with a notable exception being Dominican Republic immigrants who are mostly of Hispanic origin.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Country of birth by ethnicity |url=https://redatam.org/redatg/tempo/121816/~tmp_1218161431.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241214214256/https://redatam.org/redatg/tempo/121816/~tmp_1218161431.pdf |archive-date=14 December 2024}}</ref> Immigrants to Antigua and Barbuda, particularly those from lower-income countries, face significant discrimination in all aspects of society, although foreign-born persons have risen to the ranks of prime minister (Lester Bird)<ref>{{Cite book |last=East |first=Roger |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Mz-fXRsedPMC |title=Profiles of People in Power: The World's Government Leaders |last2=Thomas |first2=Richard |date=2003 |publisher=Psychology Press |isbn=978-1-85743-126-1 |language=en}}</ref> and governor-general (Wilfred Jacobs).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Caribbean Elections Biography {{!}} Wilfred Ebenezer Jacobs |url=http://www.caribbeanelections.com/knowledge/biography/bios/jacobs_wilfred.asp |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230119103348/http://www.caribbeanelections.com/knowledge/biography/bios/jacobs_wilfred.asp |archive-date=2023-01-19 |access-date=2025-11-20 |website=www.caribbeanelections.com}}</ref>

===Languages===
{{Main|Languages of Antigua and Barbuda}}

[[File:Map_of_Antiguan_and_Barbudan_Creole_dialects.svg|thumb|297x297px|Creole dialects in Antigua and Barbuda]]
Antigua and Barbuda has no official language.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The Laws of Antigua and Barbuda |url=https://laws.gov.ag/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250130090542/https://laws.gov.ag/ |archive-date=30 January 2025 |access-date=2025-02-01 |website=laws.gov.ag |language=en-US |url-status=live }}</ref> The most spoken language in the country is Antiguan and Barbudan Creole, with three of its seven varieties native to the country: [[North Antiguan Creole|North Antiguan]], the standard variety spoken in most of the country; [[South Antiguan Creole|South Antiguan]], a partially-intelligible variety spoken in an area known as "Round South", and [[Barbudan Creole|Barbudan]], spoken only in Barbuda.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-10-07 |title=Antigua and Barbuda Creole English {{!}} Ethnologue |url=http://www.ethnologue.com/18/language/aig/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161007145534/http://www.ethnologue.com/18/language/aig/ |archive-date=7 October 2016 |access-date=2025-02-01}}</ref> The unofficial working language of the country is [[Antiguan and Barbudan English]], which is used by all agencies of government and is the main language of business and academic communication. Virtually all persons who speak Antiguan and Barbudan Creole can also speak English, making nearly all people in the country bilingual.<ref>{{Cite book |last=McDonald |first=Natalie |url=https://www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/obj/thesescanada/vol2/002/MR90056.PDF?is_thesis=1&oclc_number=910984137 |title=Language Hegemony in Education: An Antiguan Perspective |date=May 2012 |access-date=2024-12-14}}</ref> As of 2011, the population used the following as their main language: North Antiguan (57.06%), South Antiguan (8.05%), Guyanese Creole (7.11%), standard English (6.12%), Jamaican Patois (5.21%), Spanish (2.45%), and Barbudan Creole (1.71%). 0.67% spoke an unidentified variety of Antiguan and Barbudan Creole, and the remainder primarily spoke other Caribbean dialects.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Thomas |first=Arthur |date=2025-02-11 |title=Estimated main languages of the Antiguan and Barbudan population |url=https://www.axarplex.com/items/estimated-main-languages-of-the-antiguan-and-barbudan-population |access-date=2025-12-27 |website=Axarplex |language=en}}</ref>

===Religion===
{{Main|Religion in Antigua and Barbuda}}

{{Pie chart
| thumb = right
| caption = Religion in Antigua and Barbuda (ARDA 2020 est.)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thearda.com/world-religion/national-profiles?u=10c|title=Religions in Antigua and Barbuda &#124; Arda|website=www.thearda.com|access-date=5 November 2025}}</ref>
| label1 = [[Protestant]]
| value1 = 71.26
| color1 = Blue
| label2 = [[Catholic]]
| value2 = 7.91
| color2 = Light Blue
| label3 = [[Christianity|Other Christian]]
| value3 = 13.34
| color3 = Dark Blue
| label4 = [[Baháʼí]]
| value4 = 1.10
| color4 = Pink
| label5 = [[Islam]]
| value5 = 0.77
| color5 = Green
| label6 = [[Hinduism]]
| value6 = 0.44
| color6 = Orange
| label7 = [[Irreligion|None]]
| value7 = 1.46
| color7 = Black
| label8 = Other
| value8 = 3.72
| color8 = White
}}

A majority (77%)<ref name=Factbook /> of Antiguans are Christians, with the [[Anglicans]] (17.6%) being the largest single denomination. Other Christian denominations present are [[Seventh-day Adventist Church]] (12.4%), [[Pentecostalism]] (12.2%), [[Moravian Church]] (8.3%), [[Catholic Church]]
(8.2%), [[Methodist Church]] (5.6%), [[Wesleyan Holiness Church]] (4.5%), [[Church of God (Cleveland, Tennessee)|Church of God]] (4.1%), [[Baptists]] (3.6%),<ref name=FactbookAttribution/> [[Mormonism]] (<1.0%), as well as [[Jehovah's Witnesses]].

=== Education ===
{{Main|Education in Antigua and Barbuda}}

[[File:Antigua- Animal Yoga at T.N. Kirnon (7216055656).jpg|left|thumb|A primary school classroom in St. John's|280x280px]]
Antigua and Barbuda has a centralised primary and secondary education system supervised by the Director of Education, currently Clare Browne.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-11-17 |title=Director of education express optimism about new curriculum's impact on teachers, students and parents |url=https://antiguaobserver.com/director-of-education-express-optimism-about-new-curriculums-impact-on-teachers-students-and-parents/ |access-date=2025-11-19 |website=Antigua Observer Newspaper |language=en-GB}}</ref> Education is free and compulsory for all children between ages five and sixteen.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bureau of International Labor Affairs (ILAB) - U.S. Department of Labor |url=http://www.dol.gov/ilab/media/reports/iclp/tda2001/antigua-barbuda.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080926040115/http://www.dol.gov/ilab/media/reports/iclp/tda2001/antigua-barbuda.htm |archive-date=2008-09-26 |access-date=2025-11-20 |website=www.dol.gov}}</ref> Primary education starts in [[kindergarten]] and continues through grades one to six.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Government primary school enrollment 2009 to 2018 |url=https://statistics.gov.ag/subjects/education-training-learning/govt-primary-school-enrollment-2009-2018/ |access-date=15 January 2026 |website=www.statistics.gov.ag}}</ref> In the sixth grade, most students sit the Grade Six National Assessment that determines their secondary school placement– with the top one-hundred performers nationwide having the option to attend Antigua Grammar School or Antigua Girls' High School and the lowest performers attending [[Clare Hall Secondary School]] geography-permitting.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2023 Grade Six National Assessment Top Students |url=https://ab.gov.ag/pdf/2023%20G6NA%20Top%20Students.pdf |access-date=15 January 2026 |website=www.ab.gov.ag}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=Editorial |date=2024-07-06 |title=Lowest-performing primary school students to be placed in one school |url=https://antigua.news/2024/07/06/lowest-performing-primary-school-students-to-be-placed-in-one-school/ |access-date=2025-11-20 |website=Antigua News - Breaking stories that captivate |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Editorial |date=2025-10-22 |title=Top 100 Students Honoured at 2025 Grade Six National Assessment Awards |url=https://antiguantrumpet.com/2025/10/top-100-students-honoured-at-2025-grade-six-national-assessment-awards/ |access-date=2025-11-20 |website=Antiguan Trumpet |language=en-US}}</ref> Following primary school, students attend secondary school, which is divided into five forms.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Government secondary school enrollment 2009 to 2018 |url=https://statistics.gov.ag/subjects/education-training-learning/govt-secondary-school-enrollment-2009-2018/ |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250621040137/https://statistics.gov.ag/subjects/education-training-learning/govt-secondary-school-enrollment-2009-2018/ |archive-date=2025-06-21 |access-date=2025-11-20 |website=statistics.gov.ag |language=en-US}}</ref> Most students terminate their education at fifth form, and among Antiguans and Barbudans aged twenty-five and over in 2011, 16.55% had solely a primary school education, 48.34% had only a secondary education, and 27.24% finished their education in a tertiary institution such as a college or university.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Educational Level |url=https://redatam.org/redatg/tempo/128454/~tmp_128454151.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251120001728/https://redatam.org/redatg/tempo/128454/~tmp_128454151.pdf |archive-date=2025-11-20 |access-date=2025-11-20 |website=redatam.org}}</ref> In 2023, 3.1% of Antigua and Barbuda's GDP went to education.<ref>https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SE.XPD.TOTL.GD.ZS</ref> 

Antigua and Barbuda has several tertiary institutions, including a full campus of the [[University of the West Indies at Five Islands]] and the [[Antigua State College|Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies]] based primarily in [[Golden Grove, St. John's|Golden Grove]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Michael |date=2025-09-17 |title=A&B launches ABCAS in bold push to be among top 40 global nations |url=https://antiguaobserver.com/ab-launches-abcas-in-bold-push-to-be-among-top-40-global-nations/ |access-date=2025-11-20 |website=Antigua Observer Newspaper |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=UWI Five Islands Campus: Ready for take-off |url=https://www.col.org/news/uwi-five-islands-campus-ready-for-take-off-by-dr-professor-densil-a-williams/ |access-date=2025-11-20 |website=Commonwealth of Learning |language=en-US}}</ref> Significant investments into the country's tertiary institutions since the mid-2010s along with near-universal literacy<ref>{{Cite web |last=The World Bank - www.worldbank.org |title=Education Statistics |url=https://datatopics.worldbank.org/education/country/antigua-and-barbuda |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230702003529/https://datatopics.worldbank.org/education/country/antigua-and-barbuda |archive-date=2023-07-02 |access-date=2025-11-20 |website=datatopics.worldbank.org |language=en}}</ref> have resulted in the country attracting a large number of foreign students.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Higher Education in Antigua and Barbuda: A Look at Current Universities |url=https://www.qahe.org/article/higher-education-in-antigua-and-barbuda-a-look-at-current-universities/ |access-date=2025-11-20 |website=International Association for Quality Assurance in Pre-tertiary and Higher Education |language=en-US}}</ref>

== Government and politics ==
{{Main|Politics of Antigua and Barbuda}}

=== Government ===
[[File:Parliament of Antigua and Barbuda.JPG|thumb|The [[Antigua and Barbuda Parliament Building|meeting place]] of the Parliament of Antigua and Barbuda]]
[[File:Office of the Prime Minister, St. John's.jpg|thumb|The Office of the Prime Minister, the headquarters of the executive branch–funds to build an official residence for the Prime Minister were instead used to build the [[Sir Vivian Richards Stadium]]]]
[[File:Casa de Gobierno de Antigua y Barbuda (Saint John's).jpg|thumb|[[Government House, St. John's|Government House]], the official residence and working place of the Governor-General]]

Antigua and Barbuda is a [[Unitary state|unitary]]<ref>{{Cite web |title=Antigua and Barbuda - CLGF |url=https://www.clgf.org.uk/regions/clgf-americas/antigua-and-barbuda/ |access-date=2024-06-22 |website=www.clgf.org.uk |quote=STATE STRUCTURE: unitary }}</ref> [[parliamentary democracy]] under a [[constitutional monarchy]].<ref>{{Cite book |title=Antigua & Barbuda: Foreign Policy & Government Guide |date=May 2004 |publisher=International Business Publications, USA |isbn=0-7397-9643-7}}</ref> The current [[Constitution of Antigua and Barbuda]] was adopted upon independence on 1 November 1981.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=The Antigua and Barbuda Constitution Order 1981 |url=https://laws.gov.ag/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/cap-23.pdf}}</ref> This replaced the pre-independence constitution of the [[Associated State of Antigua]], which did not thoroughly define the relationship between the two islands.<ref name="Constitution Order 1967">{{Cite web |title=Antigua Constitution Order 1967 |url=https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1967/225/pdfs/uksi_19670225_en.pdf}}</ref> The island of Barbuda maintains much autonomy, while the island of Antigua is directly governed by the national government.<ref name=":0" />

The executive branch has two primary leaders. The [[Governor-General of Antigua and Barbuda|Governor-General]], currently [[Rodney Williams (governor-general)|Rodney Williams]], exercises the functions of the [[Monarchy of Antigua and Barbuda|Monarch of Antigua and Barbuda]], in whom executive power is vested in. The Governor-General serves at the pleasure of the Monarch,<ref name=":0" /> and usually serves a similar term to that of the [[Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda|Prime Minister]]. The Prime Minister, currently {{Current prime minister of Antigua and Barbuda}}, is the [[head of government]], and is appointed by the Governor-General. The Prime Minister must be a member of the [[House of Representatives (Antigua and Barbuda)|House of Representatives]], and must be the member of the House of Representatives who is most likely to command the support of the majority of members. The Governor-General has the ability to dissolve Parliament on the advice of the Prime Minister, or when the majority of the members of the House of Representatives pass a motion of no confidence, and the Prime Minister does not within seven days resign or advise the Governor-General to dissolve Parliament.<ref name=":0" />

The legislative power of Antigua and Barbuda is vested in Parliament, which is composed of the Monarch, the [[Senate (Antigua and Barbuda)|Senate]], and the [[House of Representatives (Antigua and Barbuda)|House of Representatives]]. The Senate is composed of seventeen members, who are appointed by the Governor-General. Ten of the members are appointed on the advice of the Prime Minister, these members being known as government senators. An eleventh government senator is also appointed on the advice of the Prime Minister, who must be an inhabitant of Barbuda. Four of the members are appointed on the advice of the [[Leader of the Opposition (Antigua and Barbuda)|Leader of the Opposition]], these senators being known as opposition senators. One of the members is appointed on the advice of the [[Barbuda Council]], and an independent senator is appointed under the discretion of the Governor-General himself. The House of Representatives is currently composed of seventeen elected members, as well as the [[Speaker of the House of Representatives of Antigua and Barbuda|Speaker of the House]], who is elected by the members of the House itself. The [[Attorney General of Antigua and Barbuda|Attorney General]], while currently an elected member of Parliament, [[Steadroy Benjamin]], may also be appointed to the House of Representatives as an [[Ex officio member|''ex officio'']] member. The Attorney-General also attends sittings of the Senate. Any bill except money bills may be introduced in either chamber: money bills may only be introduced in the House. Parliament may not amend the [[Barbuda Local Government Act]] without the consent of the Barbuda Council.<ref name=":0" />

The [[judiciary of Antigua and Barbuda]] is composed of the magistrates' courts, the [[Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court|Supreme Court]] including the [[High Court of Antigua and Barbuda|High Court]] and the [[Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court|Court of Appeal]], and the [[Judicial Committee of the Privy Council]], the country's final court.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Countries |url=https://www.commonwealthgovernance.org/countries/ |access-date=2023-09-10 |website=Commonwealth Governance |language=en-US}}</ref> Antiguan and Barbudan voters rejected [[2018 Antiguan constitutional referendum|a proposal]] to make the [[Caribbean Court of Justice]] the final court in 2018.<ref>[http://www.abec.gov.ag/referendum_2018/results.php 2018 Referendum Results] ABEC</ref> Antigua and Barbuda is composed of three magistrates' courts districts,<ref name="Code of Procedure Act">{{Cite web |title=Magistrate's Code of Procedure Act |url=http://laws.gov.ag/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/cap-255.pdf}}</ref> and is part of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court system.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court |url=https://www.eccourts.org/welcome-to-eastern-caribbean-supreme-courts-website |access-date=2024-06-22 |website=www.eccourts.org |language=en}}</ref> The acting chief justice of the Supreme Court is [[Mario Michel]], serving since 5 May 2024.

Since the 1990s, the two major parties in Antigua have been the centre-right (formerly left-wing) [[Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party]], and the left-wing social democratic United Progressive Party. The Labour Party and its predecessors have traditionally been the dominant party on the national level since the [[1946 Antiguan general election|1946 general elections]], with brief pauses during the [[Progressive Labour Movement]] government (predecessor of the UPP) from 1971 to 1976, and the United Progressive Party government from 2004 until 2014.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |title=АНТИГУА И БАРБУДА {{!}} Энциклопедия Кругосвет |url=https://www.krugosvet.ru/enc/strany_mira/ANTIGUA_I_BARBUDA.html |access-date=2024-06-22 |website=www.krugosvet.ru |language=ru}}</ref> On Barbuda, dominant party is traditionally the [[Barbuda People's Movement]], being the only political grouping in the Barbuda Council since [[2021 Barbuda Council election|2021]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Local Government |url=https://barbudaful.net/the-barbudaful-community/barbudaful-politics/local-government// |website=Barbudaful}}</ref><ref name=":3" />

=== Administrative divisions ===
[[File:Barbuda Council Millenium Administration Building.jpg|thumb|The headquarters of the [[Secretary of the Barbuda Council]] in [[Codrington, Barbuda|Codrington]]]]
[[File:Antiguan and Barbudan parish capitals map.svg|thumb|Parish and dependency capitals]]
Antigua and Barbuda is composed of [[Parishes and dependencies of Antigua and Barbuda|six parishes and two dependencies]]. [[Saint John, Antigua and Barbuda|Saint John]] is the most populous parish, home to well over half of Antigua and Barbuda's population.<ref>{{cite web |author= |date=October 2020 |title=Antigua and Barbuda 2018 Labour Force Survey Report |url=https://statistics.gov.ag/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/2018-Antigua-and-Barbuda-LFS-Report.pdf |access-date=2022-09-03 |website=Antigua & Barbuda Statistics Division (statistics.gov.ag) |quote=Table 6.2.1}}</ref> During colonial times, the parishes were governed by parish vestries, however, the parishes now lack any sort of government.<ref name=":02">{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ib5FAAAAcAAJ&q=parish&pg=PA245 |title=The Laws of the Island of Antigua: Consisting of the Acts of the Leeward Islands, Commencing 8. Novem. 1690 Ending 21. April 1798, and the Acts of Antigua Commencing 10. April 1668, Ending 7. May 1804: with Prefixed to Each Volume, Analytical Tables of the Titles of the Acts, and at the End of the Whole, a Copious Digested Index |date=1805 |publisher=Bagster |language=en}}</ref> Since the 2023 general elections, various proposals have been made to establish parish councils, however, as of January 2025, none have been established.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Manifesto |url=https://asotmichael.com/manifesto/ |access-date=2023-01-19 |website=Asot A Michael |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Policy Highlight: Parish Councils |url=https://dnaab.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/RACK-CARDS-PARISH-WEB.pdf}}</ref> The dependency of Redonda is part of the parish of Saint John under the [[Redonda Annexation Act]], in Magistrates' District "A".<ref>{{Cite web |title=Redonda Annexation Act |url=https://laws.gov.ag/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/cap-373.pdf}}</ref> Barbuda is composed of eight [[Districts of Barbuda|districts]] that are eventually intended to have local government powers.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2020 |title=Barbuda Master Plan |url=http://erc.gov.ag/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Appendices.pdf}}</ref>
{|
|
* Parishes
*# [[Saint George, Antigua and Barbuda|Saint George]]
*# [[Saint John, Antigua and Barbuda|Saint John]]
*# [[Saint Mary, Antigua and Barbuda|Saint Mary]]
*# [[Saint Paul, Antigua and Barbuda|Saint Paul]]
*# [[Saint Peter, Antigua and Barbuda|Saint Peter]]
*# [[Saint Philip, Antigua and Barbuda|Saint Philip]]
* Dependencies
*# [[Barbuda]]
*# [[Redonda]]
| style="width:400px;" |{{Map of Antigua and Barbuda}}
|}
[[Local government in Antigua and Barbuda]] is completely inactive, except for the [[Barbuda Council]] which is enshrined in the Constitution.<ref name=":03">{{Cite web |title=Voice, Participation and Governance: The Case of the Eastern Caribbean |url=http://web.worldbank.org/archive/website00951/WEB/OTHER/CC47E0-5.HTM?OpenDocument&ExpandSection=4 |access-date=2023-01-06 |website=web.worldbank.org}}</ref> Antigua historically had a system of [[Village councils (Antigua and Barbuda)|village councils]] in the 1940s (although the legislation was never repealed), however, the [[Gaston Browne]] administration has expressed opposition to all forms of local governance.<ref>{{Cite web |last=jennelsa.johnson |date=2020-03-12 |title=The political Neanderthal |url=https://antiguaobserver.com/the-political-neanderthal/ |access-date=2023-02-05 |website=Antigua Observer Newspaper |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-09-04 |title=Hurst Says Request For Barbuda To Separate Is "Nonsense Talk" |url=https://antiguanewsroom.com/hurst-says-request-for-barbuda-to-separate-is-nonsense-talk/ |access-date=2024-06-22 |website=Antigua News Room |language=en-US}}</ref> St. John's also historically had a city council during the late 1800s and early 1900s,<ref>{{Cite web |title=The Public Health Act |url=http://laws.gov.ag/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/cap-353.pdf}}</ref><ref name=":12">{{Cite news |last=Abbott |first=W.J. |date=13 August 1914 |title=At a meeting of the Saint John's City Commissioners held at their office in Church Lane on Thursday the 16th day of July, 1914. |url=https://ufdcimages.uflib.ufl.edu/UF/00/07/68/63/01698/1914081301.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240624225144/https://ufdcimages.uflib.ufl.edu/UF/00/07/68/63/01698/1914081301.pdf |archive-date=24 June 2024 |access-date=24 June 2024 |work=[[The Leeward Islands Gazette]] |pages=272–273}}</ref> however the St. John's Development Corporation has since consumed most of its functions.<ref>{{Cite web |title=St. John's Development Corporation Act |url=https://laws.gov.ag/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/cap-392.pdf}}</ref>

=== Foreign relations ===
{{Main|Foreign relations of Antigua and Barbuda}}

[[File:Diplomatic_relations_of_Antigua_and_Barbuda.svg|thumb|Diplomatic relations of Antigua and Barbuda]]
[[File:Madrid_-_Embajada_de_Antigua_y_Barbuda_2.jpg|thumb|Embassy of Antigua and Barbuda in Madrid]]
The [[Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade & Barbuda Affairs|Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Barbuda Affairs]] is responsible for overseeing the foreign relations of Antigua and Barbuda.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Agriculture, Trade & Barbuda Affairs {{!}} Montevideo Consensus on Population and Development |url=https://consensomontevideo.cepal.org/en/institution/ministry-foreign-affairs-agriculture-trade-barbuda-affairs |access-date=2024-06-23 |website=consensomontevideo.cepal.org}}</ref> The current minister is [[Paul Chet Greene]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Government of Antigua and Barbuda |url=https://ab.gov.ag/detail_page.php?page=17 |access-date=2024-06-23 |website=ab.gov.ag}}</ref> Antigua and Barbuda is a founding member of the [[Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States]],<ref>{{Cite web |last=Administrator |first=OECS |date=2024-04-18 |title=About Us |url=https://oecs.int/en/who-we-are/about-us |access-date=2024-06-23 |website=Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States |language=en-gb}}</ref> as well as a member of the [[United Nations]],<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nations |first=United |title=Member States |url=https://www.un.org/en/about-us/member-states |access-date=2024-06-23 |website=United Nations |language=en}}</ref> the [[Caribbean Community]],<ref>{{Cite web |title=Member States and Associate Members |url=https://caricom.org/member-states-and-associate-members/ |website=Caribbean Community}}</ref> the [[Alliance of Small Island States]],<ref>{{Cite web |title=Member States – AOSIS |url=https://www.aosis.org/about/member-states/ |access-date=2024-06-23 |language=en-US}}</ref> and the World Trade Organisation.<ref>{{Cite web |title=WTO Members and Observers |url=https://www.wto.org/english/thewto_e/whatis_e/tif_e/org6_e.htm |access-date=2024-06-23 |website=www.wto.org |language=en}}</ref>

Antigua and Barbuda's foreign policy has been described by Gaston Browne as "we are friends of all; enemies of none". Antigua and Barbuda has rejected the notion that it is in any country's "backyard".<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Reporter |first1=Didi Kirsten Tatlow Senior |last2=Investigations |first2=International Affairs / |date=2024-04-20 |title=Antigua says it is a friend of both U.S. and China, after Newsweek article |url=https://www.newsweek.com/antigua-says-it-friend-both-us-china-after-newsweek-article-1892475 |access-date=2024-06-23 |website=Newsweek |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Facebook |url=https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=990517419313652&set=pb.100050662081603.-2207520000 |access-date=2024-06-23 |website=www.facebook.com}}</ref> Antigua and Barbuda usually maintains close relations with other [[Small Island Developing States]], and has hosted various summits on that subject.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-05-27 |title=Small island development 'a test case' for climate and financial justice, says Guterres {{!}} UN News |url=https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/05/1150266 |access-date=2024-06-23 |website=news.un.org |language=en}}</ref> The United Nations has also praised Antigua and Barbuda for its "United Nations-based multilateralism" efforts.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Radio |first=ABS TV / |date=2024-06-18 |title=UNITED NATIONS PRAISES ANTIGUA & BARBUDA'S MULTILATERALISM EFFORTS - ABS TV Radio Antigua & Barbuda |url=https://abstvradio.com/united-nations-praises-antigua-barbudas-multilateralism-efforts/ |access-date=2024-06-23 |language=en-US}}</ref> Antigua and Barbuda also has close relations with many Caribbean countries and territories, especially [[Montserrat]],<ref>{{Cite news |title=Antigua and Barbuda and Montserrat Forge Closer Ties |url=https://caricom.org/antigua-and-barbuda-and-montserrat-forge-closer-ties/#:~:text=In%20announcing%20the%20establishment%20of,adopted%20by%20the%20OECS%20or |work=[[Caribbean Community]]}}</ref> which Antigua and Barbuda accepted 3,000 refugees from in 1997 after the [[Soufrière Hills]] eruption.<ref>{{cite news |date=23 August 1997 |title=Antigua wants Montserrat refugee help |work=United Press International}}</ref> Many policies adopted by the Antiguan and Barbudan government have also often had an impact on Montserrat, due to Antigua and Barbuda hosting the main transportation links into the territory.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-03-08 |title=Unvaccinated Travelers To and From Montserrat Given the Green Light to Transit through Antigua |url=https://www.zjbradio.com/news/2022/3/8/unvaccinated-travelers-to-and-from-montserrat-given-the-green-light-to-transit-through-antigua |access-date=2024-06-23 |website=ZJB Radio: Community Radio At Its Best |language=en-US}}</ref>

=== Defence and national security ===
{{Main|National security of Antigua and Barbuda}}

[[File:State Partnership Program exchanges leadership ideas in Antigua 130820-A-UC781-793.jpg|thumb|Various members of the national security infrastructure of Antigua and Barbuda posing with the [[Florida National Guard]] at a sugar estate]]
The [[Ministry of Finance, Corporate Governance & Public Private Partnerships|Minister of Finance, Corporate Governance and Public Private Partnerships]] is responsible for the [[Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force]], the country's military.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Government of Antigua and Barbuda |url=https://ab.gov.ag/detail_page.php?page=13 |access-date=2024-06-23 |website=ab.gov.ag}}</ref> The [[Ministry of Legal Affairs, Public Safety, Immigration and Labour|Minister of Legal Affairs, Public Safety, Immigration and Labour]] is responsible for the [[national security of Antigua and Barbuda]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Government of Antigua and Barbuda |url=https://ab.gov.ag/detail_page.php?page=14 |access-date=2024-06-23 |website=ab.gov.ag}}</ref> The Defence Force consists of the [[Antigua and Barbuda Regiment|Regiment]] (army), the [[Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force Air Wing|Air Wing]], the [[Antigua and Barbuda Coast Guard|Coast Guard]], the [[Antigua and Barbuda Cadet Corps|Cadet Corps]], and the [[Service and Support Unit]]. The Defence Force is led by the [[Chief of Defence Staff (Antigua and Barbuda)|Chief of Defence Staff]], who is subject to the orders of the Governor-General.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Defence Act |url=https://laws.gov.ag/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/a2006-10.pdf}}</ref> The Defence Force is headquartered at [[Camp Blizzard]].

The [[National Security Council (Antigua and Barbuda)|National Security Council]] is responsible for the coordination of Antigua and Barbuda's national security. The National Security Adviser is a member of the council and is responsible for the gathering of intelligence and information on national security matters.<ref>{{Cite web |title=National Security Council Act |url=https://laws.gov.ag/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/No.-14-of-2006-The-National-Security-Council-Act-2006.pdf}}</ref>

The [[Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda]] is the national police department.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Police Act |url=https://laws.gov.ag/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/cap-330.pdf}}</ref> The Special Service Unit is Antigua and Barbuda's [[police tactical unit]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Special Service Unit |url=https://mpsl.gov.ag/departments/police/department/special-service-unit/ |website=Ministry of Public Safety and Labour}}</ref> The Police Force is composed of four lettered regional divisions, and subordinated service districts.<ref>{{Cite web |title="B" Division |url=https://mpsl.gov.ag/departments/police/division/b-division/ |website=Ministry of Public Safety and Labour}}</ref>

===Human rights===
{{Main|Human rights in Antigua and Barbuda}}

Violations of human rights in Antigua and Barbuda have been increasingly reported since 2017. In particular, [[Barbuda Land Acts|a land crisis]] caused by Hurricane Irma has resulted in a deterioration of the relationship between the two main islands, with the central government repeatedly threatening to abolish the communal land system and allow non-Barbudans to purchase land on the island.<ref>{{Cite web |last=irishcentreforhumanrights |date=2025-04-02 |title=Barbuda: A case study in disaster capitalism and resistance |url=https://ichrgalway.org/2025/04/02/barbuda-a-case-study-in-disaster-capitalism-and-resistance/ |access-date=2025-04-12 |website=Irish Centre for Human Rights |language=en}}</ref> Freedom of the press, while guaranteed by the constitution, is not fully protected in Antigua and Barbuda, and members of the government are known to frequently sue political opponents and independent media houses for defamation.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2024-01-09 |title=PM Browne adds MP Kelvin Shugy Simon to defamation lawsuit |url=https://antiguanewsroom.com/pm-browne-adds-mp-kelvin-shugy-simon-to-defamation-lawsuit/ |access-date=2025-04-12 |website=Antigua News Room |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |author=Editorial Staff |date=2024-01-10 |title=PM Browne adds MP Kelvin Shugy Simon and Observer Media Group to Defamation Lawsuit - Antigua News ! |url=https://antigua.news/2024/01/10/pm-browne-adds-mp-kelvin-shugy-simon-and-observer-to-defamation-lawsuit/ |access-date=2025-04-12 |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=PM Browne to sue political opponents for defamation |url=https://www.loopnews.com/content/pm-browne-to-sue-political-opponents-for-defamation/ |access-date=2025-04-12 |website=Loop News |language=en-US}}</ref> Due to attacks on freedom of the press, self-censorship is common in the media, especially in the state-controlled<ref>{{Cite web |title=Broadcast media - The World Factbook |url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/about/archives/2023/field/broadcast-media/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240205002254/https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/about/archives/2023/field/broadcast-media |url-status=dead |archive-date=5 February 2024 |access-date=2025-04-12 |website=www.cia.gov}}</ref> [[Antigua Broadcasting Service]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=lynroy.samuel |date=2017-02-23 |title=Opposition leader charges no access to state media |url=https://antiguaobserver.com/opposition-leader-charges-no-access-to-state-media/ |access-date=2025-04-12 |website=Antigua Observer Newspaper |language=en-GB}}</ref> Antigua and Barbuda has been considered a democracy since [[2004 Antiguan general election|2004]].<ref>Nohlen, p63</ref><ref>[http://www.caribbeanelections.com/ag/elections/ag_results_2004.asp Antigua and Barbuda: 2004 election results] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210629193544/http://www.caribbeanelections.com/ag/elections/ag_results_2004.asp|date=29 June 2021}} Caribbean Elections</ref><ref name=":14">{{Cite web |title=Freedom in the World 1998-1999 |url=https://freedomhouse.org/sites/default/files/2020-02/Freedom_in_the_World_1993-1994_complete_book.pdf}}</ref>

Constitutionally, the death penalty is legal, however, the constitution explicitly protects against inhumane punishment. Freedom of movement, assembly, and property are all protected under the constitution.<ref name=":0" /> The High Court legalized [[LGBT rights in Antigua and Barbuda|same-sex sexual activity]] in July 2022.<ref>{{cite news |first=Daniel |last=Avery |title=71 Countries Where Homosexuality is illegal |url=https://www.newsweek.com/73-countries-where-its-illegal-be-gay-1385974 |work=Newsweek |date=4 April 2019 |access-date=16 August 2019 |archive-date=11 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191211204842/https://www.newsweek.com/73-countries-where-its-illegal-be-gay-1385974 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=State-Sponsored Homophobia|url=https://ilga.org/state-sponsored-homophobia-report|website=International Lesbian Gay Bisexual Trans and Intersex Association|date=20 March 2019|access-date=16 August 2019|archive-date=8 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200208040345/https://ilga.org/state-sponsored-homophobia-report|url-status=live}}</ref> Abortion is illegal in Antigua and Barbuda except to save the mother's life, although 72% of women have an abortion by age 44 and a High Court ruling is pending as of 2025 to legalise it.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Michael |date=2024-09-18 |title=Legal tug-of-war begins over Antigua's abortion laws |url=https://antiguaobserver.com/legal-tug-of-war-begins-over-antiguas-abortion-laws/ |access-date=2025-04-12 |website=Antigua Observer Newspaper |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-06-28 |title=ANTIGUA & BARBUDA - Study shows high abortion rates, sexual violence, in Antigua & Barbuda amid legal reform debate |url=https://www.safeabortionwomensright.org/news/antigua-barbuda-study-shows-high-abortion-rates-sexual-violence-in-antigua-barbuda-amid-legal-reform-debate/ |access-date=2025-04-12 |website=International Campaign for Women's Right to Safe Abortion |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Campos |first=Gizane |date=2022-07-08 |title=Antigua and Barbuda Abortion Law |url=https://www.globalcitizensolutions.com/antigua-and-barbuda-abortion-law/ |access-date=2025-04-12 |website=Global Citizen Solutions |language=en}}</ref> The court system is considered independent in Antigua and Barbuda, with the courts especially distancing themselves from the government since 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Antigua and Barbuda: Freedom in the World 2022 Country Report |url=https://freedomhouse.org/country/antigua-and-barbuda/freedom-world/2022 |access-date=2025-04-12 |website=Freedom House |language=en}}</ref> Trial by jury was largely abolished in 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Emmanuel |first=Robert |date=2024-05-22 |title=Trials by Judge Alone made permanent as Senate passes Bill unanimously |url=https://antiguaobserver.com/trials-by-judge-alone-made-permanent-as-senate-passes-bill-unanimously/ |access-date=2025-04-12 |website=Antigua Observer Newspaper |language=en-GB}}</ref>

==Economy==
{{Main|Economy of Antigua and Barbuda}}

[[File:The Dockyard Museum C IMG 1037.jpg|thumb|[[English Harbour]], a major tourist destination]]
[[File:Cruise Port.jpg|thumb|[[Heritage Quay (Antigua)|Heritage Quay]] in [[Downtown St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda|Downtown St. John's]], the centre of cruise tourism in the country]]
[[Tourism in Antigua and Barbuda|Tourism]] dominates the economy, accounting for more than half of the gross domestic product (GDP).<ref name="Factbook">{{Cite CIA World Factbook|country=Antigua and Barbuda|access-date=24 January 2021|year=2021}}</ref><ref name=Britannica /> As a destination for the most affluent travelers, Antigua is well known for its extensive collection of five-star resorts. However, weaker tourist activity in lower and middle market segments since the beginning of the year 2000 has slowed the economy and put the government into a tight fiscal corner.<ref name=Factbook /> Antigua and Barbuda has enacted policies to attract high-net-worth citizens and residents, such as abolishing personal income tax in 2016.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Antigua and Barbuda Taxes for US Expats: A Complete Guide |date=24 April 2024 |url=https://www.greenbacktaxservices.com/country-guide/expat-taxes-for-antigua-and-barbuda/ |publisher=Greenback Expat Tax Services |website=greenbacktaxservices.com |quote="In 2016, the government of Antigua and Barbuda eliminated personal income tax entirely" [...] "[the policy offers] individuals and businesses a more favorable tax environment."}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Antigua and Barbuda Government Abolishes Personal Income Tax |date=21 January 2016 |publisher=Online Guide to Antigua and Barbuda's Government Information and Services |website=ab.gov.ag |url=https://ab.gov.ag/media_page.php?page=16 }}</ref>

The provision of investment banking and financial services also constitutes a significant portion of the economy. Major international financial institutions such as the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) and Scotiabank both maintain offices in Antigua. PriceWaterhouseCoopers, Pannell Kerr Forster, and KPMG are some of the other companies in the financial services industry that have offices in Antigua.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Antigua: a Mature Financial Centre |url=https://www.ifcreview.com/articles/2009/may/antigua-a-mature-financial-centre/ |access-date=2022-10-11 |website=IFC Review |language=en}}</ref> In February 2009 the United States Securities and Exchange Commission leveled allegations against the Antigua-based Stanford International Bank, part of the [[Stanford Financial Group]], which was owned by Texan [[Allen Stanford]], of orchestrating a massive fraud that resulted in the theft of approximately $8&nbsp; billion from investors.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/21/business/21stanford.html |work=The New York Times |title=Fraud Case Shakes a Billionaire's Caribbean Realm |first1=Clifford |last1=Krauss |first2=Julie |last2= Creswell |first3=Charlie |last3=Savage |date=21 February 2009 |access-date=14 April 2010 |archive-date=16 April 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090416023254/http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/21/business/21stanford.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

The nation, which consists of two islands, directs the majority of its agricultural production toward the markets that are found within the nation. This is done despite the fact that the nation has a limited water supply and a shortage of laborers as a result of the higher wages offered in the tourism and construction industries.<ref name=FactbookAttribution/>

Manufacturing comprises 2% of GDP and is made up of enclave-type assembly for export, the major products being bedding, handicrafts, and electronic components.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Manufacturing, value added (% of GDP) – Antigua and Barbuda, Germany {{!}} Data |url=https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/NV.IND.MANF.ZS?locations=AG-DE |access-date=2022-10-11 |publisher=World Bank}}</ref> Prospects for economic growth in the medium term will continue to depend on income growth in the industrialised world, especially in the United States,<ref name=FactbookAttribution>{{citation-attribution|1={{Cite CIA World Factbook|country=Antigua and Barbuda|access-date=24 January 2021|year=2021}} }}</ref> from which about one-third to one-half of all tourists come.<ref>{{cite web |last=Newsdesk |date=2021-09-15 |title=Antigua and Barbuda's Tourism Growth Continues |url=https://www.travelagentcentral.com/destinations/antigua-and-barbudas-tourism-growth-continues |access-date=2022-04-24 |website=Travel Agent Central |language=en |archive-date=16 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210916104715/https://www.travelagentcentral.com/destinations/antigua-and-barbudas-tourism-growth-continues |url-status=live }}</ref>

Access to [[biocapacity]] is lower than world average. In 2016, Antigua and Barbuda had 0.8 global hectares<ref name=footprintdata>{{cite web|url=http://data.footprintnetwork.org/#/countryTrends?cn=8&type=BCpc,EFCpc|title=Country Trends|publisher=Global Footprint Network|access-date=4 June 2020|archive-date=8 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170808050235/http://data.footprintnetwork.org/#/countryTrends?cn=8&type=BCpc,EFCpc|url-status=live}}</ref> of biocapacity per person within its territory, much less than the world average of 1.6 global hectares per person.<ref>{{Cite journal|last1=Lin|first1=David|last2=Hanscom|first2=Laurel|last3=Murthy|first3=Adeline|last4=Galli|first4=Alessandro|last5=Evans|first5=Mikel|last6=Neill|first6=Evan|last7=Mancini|first7=MariaSerena|last8=Martindill|first8=Jon|last9=Medouar|first9=FatimeZahra|last10=Huang|first10=Shiyu|last11=Wackernagel
|first11=Mathis|year=2018|title=Ecological Footprint Accounting for Countries: Updates and Results of the National Footprint Accounts, 2012–2018|journal=Resources|language=en|volume=7|issue=3|page=58|doi=10.3390/resources7030058|doi-access=free|bibcode=2018Resou...7...58L }}</ref> In 2016, Antigua and Barbuda used 4.3 global hectares of biocapacity per person – their [[ecological footprint]] of consumption. This means they use more biocapacity than Antigua and Barbuda contains. As a result, Antigua and Barbuda are running a biocapacity deficit.<ref name=footprintdata/>

The Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) is the government authority responsible for processing all applications for Agent's Licenses as well as all applications for Citizenship by Investment made by applicants and their family members. This unit was established by the Prime Minister and is known as the Citizenship by Investment Unit.<ref name="CIU">{{cite web |url=https://www.cip.gov.ag |title=Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program |author=Citizenship by Investment Unit |publisher=Antigua and Barbuda |access-date=2 November 2019 |archive-date=2 November 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191102060056/https://www.cip.gov.ag/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

== Culture ==
{{Main|Culture of Antigua and Barbuda}}

[[File:Anucarnival1.JPG|thumb|Antigua Carnival]]
[[File:Saint Mary 1, Antigua.jpg|thumb|Typical Antiguan homes in [[Saint Mary, Antigua and Barbuda|Saint Mary]]]]
[[File:Top Mission Street, Codrington, Barbuda.jpg|thumb|Typical Barbudan homes in Codrington]]
The [[music of Antigua and Barbuda]] has some African characteristics, with minimal influence from European music, but the music is distinct.<ref name="Garland">McDaniel, pp. 798–800</ref> Records of music in Antigua and Barbuda dates back to Christopher Columbus' writings in 1493, when it was still home to Arawak and Carib people, still, very little research has been done on early music from the islands. African labourers are documented in history to have danced outside in the 1780s to the toombah (later tum tum), a drum adorned with tin and shell jingles, and the banjar (later bangoe, maybe related to the European banjo).<ref name="Luffman 1788">{{cite book |author=Luffman, John |title=A Brief Account of the Island of Antigua |year=1788 |location=London |pages=798–800}}</ref> Antigua's indigenous music, known as [[Benna (genre)|Benna]], came into being after slavery was abolished. Benna uses a call-and-response format, and its audience is typically interested in obscene gossip and rumours. Benna was widely utilised as a popular communication tool by the beginning of the 20th century, disseminating information around the island.<ref name="Luffman 1788" /><ref>[http://www.antiguamuseums.org/cultural.htm#Calypso Antigua and Barbuda's Cultural Heritage] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051026090344/http://www.antiguamuseums.org/cultural.htm|date=2005-10-26}} and McDaniel, pp 798-800</ref> Benna has long been eclipsed by calypso and increasingly soca, which includes South Asian rhythms.

The [[Art in Antigua and Barbuda|art of Antigua and Barbuda]] began with the [[Arawak people]]. Their artwork included pictographs and petroglyphs. These geometric shapes, animals, and plant artworks are said to have been used for ceremonial or religious purposes. Painting, sculpture, and ceramics were among the artistic traditions that European settlers brought to Antigua and Barbuda. Local painters used European art forms to produce Antiguan and Barbudan art in their own unique styles. Social issues, nature, and Caribbean identity were the subjects of this artwork.<ref name="Design Encyclopedia">{{Cite web |title=A' Design Award and Competition – Design Encyclopedia – History Of Art In Antigua And Barbuda |url=https://competition.adesignaward.com/design-encyclopedia.php?e=240199 |access-date=2023-08-16 |website=competition.adesignaward.com}}</ref> Traditional crafts from Antigua and Barbuda include scrimshaw, pottery, sculptures, ethnic dolls, and photography.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |title=Antigua and Barbuda / Pressroom |url=http://www.antigua-barbuda.org/press132.htm |access-date=2023-08-16 |website=antigua-barbuda.org}}</ref>

Every year, on the island of Antigua, people celebrate their freedom from slavery with the [[Antigua Carnival]] modelled after European pre-Lent Carnival. Over thirteen days, there are brightly coloured costumes, talent events, beauty pageants and music. The celebration runs from late July to Carnival Tuesday, the first Tuesday in August. On the island, Carnival Tuesday and Monday are both observed as public holidays. In an effort to boost travel to Antigua and Barbuda, the Old Time Christmas Festival was replaced in 1957 by the Antiguan Carnival.<ref name=":22">{{Cite web |title=History of Antigua's Carnival |url=https://antiguacarnival.com/about/history |access-date=2024-04-28 |website=Antigua's Carnival {{!}} Antigua Barbuda Festivals Commission |language=en-gb}}</ref><ref name=":022">{{Cite web |date=2018-09-17 |title=Antigua's Carnival |url=https://www.visitantiguabarbuda.com/antiguas-carnival/ |access-date=2024-04-28 |website=Visit Antigua & Barbuda |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name="best Caribbean carnivals">{{Cite web |date=2023-07-14 |title=8 of the best Caribbean carnivals |url=https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/best-caribbean-carnivals |access-date=2024-04-28 |website=Travel |language=en}}</ref> Another annual festival held in Antigua is [[Antigua Sailing Week]]. Sailing Week is a week-long yacht [[regatta]] held in the waters of [[English Harbour]]. Sailing Week was founded in 1967 and is known for being one of the top regattas in the world.<ref name="Beckett">{{cite book |last=Beckett |first=Luisa |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=qINzbC0D8eUC&pg=PA50 |title=Yachting Escapes: The Caribbean |publisher=The Escapes Group ltd |isbn=978-1-60643-795-7 |page=50 |access-date=24 March 2012}}</ref><ref name="Vaitilingam2002">{{cite book |last=Vaitilingam |first=Adam |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=mIP0T3hGT1UC&pg=PA129 |title=The Rough Guide to Antigua and Barbuda |date=31 January 2002 |publisher=Rough Guides |isbn=978-1-85828-715-7 |page=129 |access-date=24 March 2012}}</ref> The main festival held in Barbuda is Caribana. Caribana takes place every year during Whit Monday weekend<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |title=Antigua and Barbuda Public Holidays |url=https://ab.gov.ag/detail_page.php?page=4 |access-date=2024-06-24 |website=ab.gov.ag}}</ref> and features various pageants, calypso competitions, and weekend beach parties.<ref name=":11">{{Cite web |title=the barbudaful community |url=https://barbudaful.net/the-barbudaful-community/ |access-date=2023-07-22 |website=Barbudaful |language=en-GB}}</ref>

Antigua and Barbuda has eleven public holidays.<ref name=":2" /> On the advice of the Cabinet, the Governor-General may also proclaim other holidays.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Public Holidays Act |url=https://laws.gov.ag/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/cap-354.pdf}}</ref> Historically, about three weeks before Christmas Day, carol singers would roam the various villages, carrying carol trees and lanterns. "John Bulls" are replicas of "masked African witch doctors", that often dominated the country's Christmas festivities. Jazz bands were also common sights, dressed in red and green clown costumes.<ref>{{Cite web |title=ANTIGUA & BARBUDA'S CULTURAL HERITAGE |url=http://antiguahistory.net/Museum/cultural.htm |access-date=2024-06-24 |website=antiguahistory.net |archive-date=4 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304003022/http://antiguahistory.net/Museum/cultural.htm }}</ref>

=== Cuisine ===
{{Main|Cuisine of Antigua and Barbuda}}

The islands' cuisine is mostly of European origin (UK and Portugal) with regional ingredients. Fungee (pronounced "foon-jee") and pepperpot are the national dishes. Fungee is a cornmeal-based dish that resembles polenta.<ref name="recipeisland">[http://recipeisland.com/blog1/recipe-island/antigua-barbuda-recipes/antigua-barbuda-national-dish-recipe "Antigua & Barbuda National Dish & Recipe."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101013171821/http://recipeisland.com/blog1/recipe-island/antigua-barbuda-recipes/antigua-barbuda-national-dish-recipe|date=October 13, 2010}} [http://recipeisland.com Recipeisland.com]. Pepperpot is a spinach and okra stew, with and without beef parts or chicken. Accessed July 2011.</ref> Other national foods include saltfish (cod), lobster (from Barbuda), ducana (a sweet dumpling made from sweet potatoes and coconut), and seasoned rice, similar to Palau or arroz con pollo. Additionally, there are confections such as peanut brittle, sugar cake (made from coconut and sugar), fudge, and raspberry (local) and tamarind stew (sauce). The [[Antigua black pineapple]] is prized for its juicy, sweet flesh. It is a well-liked fruit in the area and is included in many regional specialties and sweets. It is said to be the sweetest variety of pineapple.<ref name="Antigua Black Pineapple">{{Cite web |title=Antigua Black Pineapple {{!}} Local Pineapple From Antigua and Barbuda |url=https://www.tasteatlas.com/antigua-black-pineapple |access-date=2023-02-05 |website=tasteatlas.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-01-02 |title=The Antigua Black Pineapple: An Island Treasure {{!}} Sandals Blog |url=https://www.sandals.com/blog/antigua-black-pineapple/ |access-date=2023-02-05 |website=Hello Paradise – The Official Sandals Resorts Travel & Lifestyle Blog}}</ref>

An important part of the Antiguan and Barbudan breakfast is [[Antigua Sunday bread]]. It is sold in many bakeries on both islands, and instead of being made with butter, it is made with lard. There are often decorative twists on the crust of the bread.<ref name=":04">{{Cite web |last=admin |date=2016-06-01 |title=Antigua Sunday Bread |url=http://www.cookingsensemag.com/antigua-sunday-bread/ |access-date=2023-02-05 |website=Cooking Sense Magazine |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":13">{{Cite news |date=2022-09-03 |title=Antigua's traditional bread shops struggle amid food price hikes |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-62595443 |access-date=2023-02-05 |work=BBC News |language=en-GB}}</ref> [[Antiguan raisin buns]], often called "bun and cheese", is another traditional bread, which is sweet and most popular during Easter. It is sometimes made with spices such as nutmeg.<ref name=":05">{{Cite web |last=ChainBaker |date=2021-05-02 |title=Antiguan Raisin Buns, Unique Bun & Cheese Recipe |url=https://www.chainbaker.com/antiguan-bun-and-cheese/ |access-date=2023-02-05 |website=ChainBaker |language=en-GB}}</ref>

=== Sport ===
[[File:Cricket ground.jpg|thumb|The [[Antigua Recreation Ground]], the national stadium]]
[[Cricket]] is the most popular sport within the islands. [[Viv Richards|Sir Isaac Vivian Alexander Richards]] {{post-nominals|list=[[Order of the National Hero (Antigua and Barbuda)|KNH]] [[Order of the British Empire|OBE]] [[Order of the Caribbean Community|OOC]]}} represented the [[West Indies cricket team]] between 1974 and 1991.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 April 2011 |title=Viv Richards was a complete genius: Imran Khan |url=https://www.dawn.com/2011/04/02/viv-richards-was-a-complete-genius-imran-khan/ |access-date=25 January 2021 |website=Dawn |language=en |location=Pakistan}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |author=Featured Columnist |date=13 November 2013 |title=The ICC Ranking System's Top 10 Batsmen in ODI Cricket History |url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1848478-the-icc-ranking-systems-top-10-batsmen-in-odi-cricket-history/page/11 |access-date=7 August 2014 |publisher=Bleacher Report}}</ref> The [[Antigua and Barbuda national cricket team]] represented the country at the [[1998 Commonwealth Games]], but Antiguan cricketers otherwise play for the [[Leeward Islands cricket team]] in domestic matches and the [[West Indies cricket team]] internationally. Teams from the various villages and parishes compete in the Parish League.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-01-20 |title=ACB Antigua Parish League |url=https://cricket268.com/acb-antigua-parish-league/ |access-date=2024-06-24 |website=Cricket268 |language=en-US}}</ref>

[[Football in Antigua and Barbuda|Association football]] is the second most popular sport in the country,<ref name="worldsoccer2">{{cite web |title=Antigua & Barbuda taking small steps towards respectability &#124; World Soccer |url=http://www.worldsoccer.com/blogs/antigua-barbuda-taking-small-steps-towards-respectability |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140324045016/http://www.worldsoccer.com/blogs/antigua-barbuda-taking-small-steps-towards-respectability |archive-date=2014-03-24 |access-date=2014-03-25 |publisher=worldsoccer.com}}</ref> with the [[Antigua and Barbuda national football team]] being founded in 1928.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-03-07 |title=ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA |url=https://www.concacaf.com/inside-concacaf/member-associations/antigua-and-barbuda/ |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=Concacaf |language=en}}</ref>

==See also==
{{Portal|Caribbean}}
* [[Outline of Antigua and Barbuda]]
* [[Index of Antigua and Barbuda–related articles]]
{{Clear}}

==Notes==
{{notelist}}

==References==
{{reflist|colwidth=30em}}

==Further reading==
* Nicholson, Desmond V., ''Antigua, Barbuda, and Redonda: A Historical Sketch,'' St. Johns, Antigua: Antigua and Barbuda Museum, 1991.
* Dyde, Brian, ''A History of Antigua: The Unsuspected Isle,'' London: Macmillan Caribbean, 2000.
* Gaspar, David Barry – ''Bondmen & Rebels: A Study of Master-Slave Relations in Antigua, with Implications for Colonial America.''
* Harris, David R. – ''Plants, Animals, and Man in the Outer Leeward Islands, West Indies. An Ecological Study of Antigua, Barbuda, and Anguilla.''
* Henry, Paget – ''Peripheral Capitalism and Underdevelopment in Antigua.''
* Lazarus-Black, Mindie – ''Legitimate Acts and Illegal Encounters: Law and Society in Antigua and Barbuda.''
* Riley, J. H. – ''Catalogue of a Collection of Birds from Barbuda and Antigua, British West Indies.''
* Rouse, Irving and Birgit Faber Morse – ''Excavations at the Indian Creek Site, Antigua, West Indies.''
* Thomas Hearne. ''Southampton.''

==External links==
{{Wikibooks|Wikijunior:Countries A-Z|Antigua and Barbuda}}
{{Sister project links|voy=Antigua and Barbuda|Antigua and Barbuda}}
{{Scholia|country}}
* {{Official website|www.ab.gov.ag|The Official Website of the Government of Antigua and Barbuda}}
* {{Wikiatlas|Antigua and Barbuda}}
* [https://www.loc.gov/rr/international/hispanic/antigua/antigua.html Antigua and Barbuda], United States Library of Congress
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20260115003123/https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/antigua-and-barbuda/ Antigua and Barbuda]. ''[[The World Factbook]]''. [[Central Intelligence Agency]].
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20080704133113/http://ucblibraries.colorado.edu/govpubs/for/antiguabarbuda.htm Antigua and Barbuda] from ''UCB Libraries GovPubs''
* [https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-18706079 Antigua and Barbuda] from the [[BBC News]]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20080428172529/http://devdata.worldbank.org/external/CPProfile.asp?PTYPE=CP&CCODE=ATG World Bank's country data profile] for Antigua and Barbuda
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20100602034331/http://www.archaeologyantigua.org/background_archaic.htm ArchaeologyAntigua.org] – 2010March13 source of archaeological information for Antigua and Barbuda
* [https://antiguabarbuda.com Antigua & Barbuda Official Business Hub]

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