Browne Says Spanish Initiative Will Help Antigua and Barbuda Compete Globally

Prime Minister Gaston Browne said Antigua and Barbuda’s decision to make Spanish the country’s official second language is intended to strengthen regional integration, expand trade opportunities and prepare citizens for greater participation in the global economy.

Speaking on the “Browne and Browne” programme on Pointe FM, Browne linked the initiative to his administration’s broader development agenda and efforts to position Antigua and Barbuda as what he described as a “lifestyle superpower.”

“We are pursuing the development of this country in a very holistic way,” Browne said while discussing the government’s vision for the country’s future.  

During the programme, Browne said the government’s language policy is designed to improve integration and competitiveness, particularly within the Latin American and Caribbean region.

“Spanish designated as second language in schools and communities to support trade with Latin America, integrate Dominican Republic nationals (~10% of population), and enhance global competitiveness,” the programme summary stated.  

The remarks came days after Cabinet approved a major national policy initiative establishing Spanish as Antigua and Barbuda’s official second language.

Under the policy, the Ministry of Education and Science and Technology has been instructed to begin restructuring the curriculum at the preschool, primary and secondary school levels to ensure Spanish becomes a core subject within the education system.

Cabinet said the initiative reflects Antigua and Barbuda’s growing regional and international engagement and recognizes the importance of equipping future generations with language skills that can expand educational, professional, diplomatic and economic opportunities.

The government also cited the longstanding relationship between Antigua and Barbuda and the Dominican Republic as a key factor behind the decision. Cabinet acknowledged the contribution of the Dominican community to national development and the close cultural and people-to-people ties between the two countries.

Browne said the administration sees multilingualism as essential to improving communication, regional integration and workforce competitiveness.

“It’s about quality of life,” Browne said, adding that the country must provide “good educational opportunities” and create pathways for advancement and entrepreneurship.  

As part of the initiative, Cabinet also approved the DRIP programme — a Dominican Republic Integration Programme intended to strengthen economic, cultural and institutional ties between the two countries.

Officials said DRIP is expected to improve trade and investment flows, expand cooperation in tourism and education and provide structured support for Dominican nationals living in Antigua and Barbuda. The programme is also intended to promote social cohesion and improve access to government services.

In a related move, Cabinet approved the creation of a Spanish Desk within the Office of the Prime Minister to serve as a direct point of engagement for Spanish-speaking residents.

The office is expected to assist with communication, improve access to government services and support greater community integration.

The policy has generated public discussion since its announcement, with supporters describing the move as a practical step toward regional integration and economic development, while others have questioned how quickly schools and public institutions will be able to adapt to the changes.

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