PRESS RELEASE

NEW YORK, 16th April, 2026…Antigua and Barbuda’s National Youth Ambassador, Christal Percival delivered a compelling intervention during the plenary session of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Youth Forum at the United Nations today, April 16.

Her contribution highlighted Antigua and Barbuda’s leadership among Small Island Developing States (SIDS) around the globe and reinforced the urgency of advancing the priorities of sustainable development.

Percival, in addressing a packed forum of delegates at the United Nations headquarters, focused on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. Her message underscored the realities faced by countries confronting rising sea levels, intensifying weather events, and economic vulnerability.

Christal Percival address UN ECOSOC Youth Forum

The youth ambassador pointed out several national initiatives that demonstrate Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to inclusive and climate-resilient development. Among them is the Government’s push to remove barriers for young entrepreneurs in agriculture by expanding access to land, financing, and tax incentives. These measures, she noted, are strengthening food security while empowering youth to contribute more to resilient local economies.

Percival also underscored the country’s alignment with the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS), pointing to efforts to enhance health, literacy and in addressing the risk factors associated with non-communicable diseases such as obesity and poor diets.

Energy transition and climate-resilient housing featured prominently in her intervention. She outlined national efforts to expand renewable energy, fortify vulnerable communities, and implement a housing revolution aimed at delivering climate-resilient homes.

The youth ambassador also emphasized the importance of inclusive governance, noting that Antigua and Barbuda is expanding public participation, strengthening civic education, and creating more accessible platforms for community dialogue.

Throughout her intervention, Percival stressed that sustainable progress for SIDS cannot be achieved in isolation. “It requires steadfast global alliances and sustained investment,” she said, calling on the international community to support small island nations as they work to build safer, more resilient cities and communities.

The SDG 11 address during the plenary session follows interventions by two National Youth Ambassadors, Amelia Williams and Kristine Louisa, who too underscored the need for measures that will advance the goals and outcomes of sustainable development.

Youth Delegation at UN ECOSOC Youth Forum

The seven-member delegation is led by Director of Youth Affairs, Dr. Jrucilla Samuel. Besides Percival the other three National Youth Ambassadors in the delegation are Amelia Williams, Kristine Louisa, and Shacia Albertine. Also in the team are two members of the National Youth Volunteer Corps – Sara Bacchus and Esquire Henry.