Antigua and Barbuda has reinforced its role as a leading voice for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in global climate diplomacy, with Ambassador Diann Black-Layne, Director of the Department of Environment, co-chairing a key UNFCCC Response Measures meeting following COP30.

Elected by the COP Plenary, Ambassador Black-Layne guided negotiations alongside Veronica Bagi, Climate Policy Officer with the UNFCCC, focusing on the impacts of climate mitigation policies on economies, labor markets, and communities, particularly in vulnerable developing nations.

Highlighting the strength of the national delegation, Ambassador Black-Layne praised the contributions of Gita Gardner, Arry Simon, and Ambassador Ruleta Camacho-Thomas, whose work across multiple negotiation tracks reflects Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to sustained, high-level engagement in international climate discussions.

As co-chairs, Black-Layne and Bagi helped parties navigate areas where consensus was difficult, facilitating discussions on sensitive issues while keeping negotiations on track.

A central priority for Antigua and Barbuda under the Response Measures agenda is ensuring a just transition for workers and industries. With the world moving toward renewable energy to meet the 1.5°C global temperature goal, the delegation emphasized that the transition must be fair and equitable for nations and sectors reliant on fossil fuels.

While a broader framework decision was adopted, some unresolved issues remain. These will now be referred to the COP President for further consultations and the presentation of alternative pathways to advance negotiations.

The Ministry of Environment commended Ambassador Black-Layne and the delegation for their continued leadership and diplomacy, noting that their efforts strengthen Antigua and Barbuda’s influence in shaping global climate policy while advocating for responsible and equitable climate action.

This active engagement underscores the country’s commitment to ensuring that climate transitions are not only environmentally sustainable but also socially and economically just.