Over 600 Regional and International Security Officers Deployed as Antigua and Barbuda Prepares for CHOGM 2026

Antigua and Barbuda is preparing for one of its largest international diplomatic gatherings, with more than 600 regional and international security officers assisting local authorities as the country moves closer to hosting the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

The scale of the operation was outlined during Wednesday's Cabinet meeting, where the CHOGM Task Force delivered a comprehensive assessment of the country's readiness, covering security, accommodation, transportation and ceremonial arrangements.

According to the Cabinet report, 53 Commonwealth countries have confirmed their participation in the four-day gathering, with some delegations increasing the size of their travelling parties.

The growing number of participants has prompted additional requests for accommodation, placing further demands on the hospitality sector as preparations continue.

Security remains among the Government's highest priorities.

Personnel from Jamaica, Barbados, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago and The Bahamas have already arrived in Antigua and Barbuda, alongside officers from member countries of the Regional Security System (RSS).

Security officials from Canada and the United Kingdom are also contributing to the arrangements.

The visiting officers are assisting the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda and the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force in maintaining security throughout the meeting.

Beyond security, significant preparations are underway to ensure visiting leaders, delegates and officials can travel efficiently between venues.

More than 450 locally sourced transportation vehicles, including buses, taxis and paratransit vehicles, have been secured to support the operation.

The involvement of local transportation operators is expected to create economic opportunities for businesses while helping the Government manage the logistical demands of the international gathering.

Cabinet also received updates on arrangements for the official opening ceremony, ceremonial parade and the movement of delegates between scheduled activities.

The Government acknowledged that hosting an event of this magnitude presents considerable logistical challenges for a small island developing state.

However, Cabinet expressed confidence in the work being undertaken by the Task Force, public servants, security agencies, private-sector partners and other stakeholders.

Officials stressed that readiness extends beyond the principal meeting venues and includes the systems, personnel and services required to receive and accommodate international visitors.

With security personnel arriving, transportation resources secured and accommodation arrangements being expanded, the Government maintains that preparations are progressing towards the successful hosting of CHOGM 2026.