​Prime Minister Gaston Browne says Antigua and Barbuda is navigating one of the most challenging periods in recent history as shifting global politics and increasing external pressures continue to test the resilience of small island developing states.

Speaking on the Browne and Browne programme on Saturday, Browne described the current geopolitical climate as increasingly difficult for countries like Antigua and Barbuda.

“When you look at the geopolitical environment under which we are operating, it is ‘hostile’, I want to repeat; it is hostile,” Browne said. “This makes it extremely difficult for small countries such as Antigua and Barbuda to navigate the space.”

He said his administration continues to engage respectfully with international partners while defending the country’s interests.

“However, as much as we remain respectful of our international partners, those who continue to squeeze us, we are still making the case to ensure that they do not destroy our country,” he stated.

Browne said despite the global pressures, his government’s priority remains ensuring Antigua and Barbuda is a safe place to live and work.

He also pointed to the country’s crime statistics, arguing that Antigua and Barbuda continues to compare favourably with many of its regional neighbours. According to the Prime Minister, the number of homicides recorded so far this year remains relatively low, and the country is performing well under the circumstances.

He maintained that the nation’s crime rate remains remarkably low, particularly when compared with several other countries in the OECS.

“Antigua and Barbuda must be safe for our residents and our visitors who come to this country; they must feel as though they are coming to a place where they can enjoy themselves without having to worry about crime and violence,” Browne said.

The Prime Minister acknowledged concerns over petty crimes, particularly incidents involving young men snatching gold chains from unsuspecting pedestrians. He revealed that police have been intensifying their efforts to target those responsible.

He said law enforcement is “ramping up” its strategies to “go after” the offenders, many of whom are still teenagers.

Browne also highlighted what he described as a successful intervention programme involving himself and other concerned citizens aimed at steering young people away from gang activity. He said several former gang members have since graduated from the Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies (ABCAS).

“We should encourage them to pursue their education, even to consider entering UWI FIC,” Browne said, urging the young graduates to continue building positive futures through higher education.