Antigua and Barbuda Holds Broad Stakeholder Consultation on New Mental Health Bill

The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment, and Civil Service Affairs continues to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to advancing mental health care and protecting the rights and dignity of all citizens.

In keeping with this commitment, the Ministry convened a high-level stakeholder consultation at the Parliament Building on February 20, 2026 to review the proposed Mental Health Bill, which is scheduled to be tabled in Parliament in March 2026.

The consultation formed part of the Government’s inclusive and participatory approach to legislative reform. It brought together senior technical officers within the Ministry of Health; representatives from the Medical Benefits Scheme; the AIDS Secretariat; the Directorate of Gender Affairs; Evangelical Services; the National Office of Disaster Services (NODS); nurses from community clinics; representatives from the Claarevue Psychiatric Hospital; Doctors; mental health professionals; as well as several non-governmental and non-profit organizations.

In his opening remarks, the Minister of Health, Sir Molwyn Joseph underscored the Government’s vision to integrate mental health services into community clinics across Antigua and Barbuda. This strategic move aims to ensure that mental health care is more accessible, community-based, and seamlessly incorporated into primary health services.

The Minister also highlighted plans for the establishment of the Behavioral Health Institute at the former Jehovah Witness Kingdom Hall which will operate under the umbrella of the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, further strengthening coordination, oversight, and the delivery of specialized services within the national healthcare system.

A significant feature of the reform process has been the critical support provided by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), which has played an instrumental role in assisting the Government of Antigua and Barbuda with the drafting of the Mental Health Bill. Through technical guidance and international best practice standards, PAHO has helped to shape legislation that places strong emphasis on human rights protections.

The proposed legislation is firmly grounded in the principle that individuals living with mental health conditions are entitled to the full protection of their human rights. It seeks to modernize existing laws, safeguard dignity, strengthen accountability mechanisms, and promote a rights-based, person-centred approach to mental health care.

The consultation provided stakeholders with the opportunity to review the draft Bill in detail and to offer additional recommendations, including refinements based on the guidance and technical input provided by PAHO. This collaborative process ensures that the final legislation reflects both international standards and the unique needs of Antigua and Barbuda.

The Ministry expressed sincere appreciation to all participants for their meaningful engagement and valuable contributions. The collective insights shared during the consultation will further strengthen the proposed Mental Health Bill as the Government prepares for its presentation to Parliament in March 2026.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment, and Civil Service Affairs remains steadfast in its mission to promote holistic health and national wellness, recognizing that mental health is fundamental to the social and economic development of Antigua and Barbuda.

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