Antigua and Barbuda
Freedom at a Glance
Global Freedom
83 / 100
Free
Antigua and Barbuda is a democracy that holds regular elections. Corruption in government is a concern, and women and LGBT+ people are underrepresented in politics and experience some discrimination. Since Hurricane Irma devastated Barbuda in 2017, the government has sought to weaken the island’s longstanding system of communal land rights.
Research & Recommendations
Antigua and Barbuda
Free
83
100
| PR Political Rights | 32 40 |
| CL Civil Liberties | 51 60 |
Last Year's Score & Status
85
100
Free
A country or territory’s Freedom in the World status depends on its aggregate Political Rights score, on a scale of 0–40, and its aggregate Civil Liberties score, on a scale of 0–60.
See the methodology.
Overview
Antigua and Barbuda is a democracy that holds regular elections. Corruption in government is a concern, and women and LGBT+ people are underrepresented in politics and experience some discrimination. Relations between Antigua and Barbuda are difficult, with the national government seeking to weaken Barbuda’s autonomy and its long-standing system of communal land rights. The country’s citizenship-by-investment program is a key element of its economy, but its operation has come under international scrutiny.
Freedom in the World 2025 Policy Recommendations
Prioritize strengthening the rule of law and delivering economic dividends in the aftermath of political transitions
In countries where democratic forces have come to power after periods of antidemocratic rule, the new governments should pursue an agenda that protects and expands freedoms even as it delivers tangible economic and social benefits to citizens.
In countries emerging from war or the collapse of authoritarian regimes, focus on safety, reconciliation, reform
These countries must act swiftly to release all political prisoners, build or revitalize democratic institutions, reform police and other security forces, organize and hold competitive multiparty elections, and ensure accountability for past human rights violations.
Bolster checks and balances to mitigate the threat of democratic backsliding
In countries where there has been significant erosion of political rights and civil liberties, policymakers, legislators, jurists, civic activists, and donor communities should work to strengthen institutional guardrails and norms that serve to constrain elected leaders with antidemocratic or illiberal aims.
News and Updates
Featured
Country Facts
Basic Facts
Freedom in the World Score
83
/ 100
Free
Population: 93,763
Internet Facts
Status
Not Tracked
Election Facts
Status
Not Tracked
Transnational Repression
Status
Not Tracked
