Antigua and Barbuda Prepares for Major 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting

Antigua and Barbuda Prepares for Major 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting

The government of Antigua and Barbuda has begun preparations to host the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), with projected costs expected to exceed US$10 million.

Speaking at Thursday’s post-Cabinet media briefing, Ambassador Lionel Hurst said discussions are already underway with international partners to secure financial contributions to support the high-profile event.

“We anticipate that hosting CHOGM will require significant expenditure, possibly more than what was spent on last year’s Small Island Developing States (SIDS) conference,” Hurst said. “That event cost over US$10 million, and CHOGM is likely to exceed that.”

The summit is expected to bring together leaders from across the 56-member Commonwealth, providing a platform to address key global and regional issues, including climate change, trade, and development.

While final budgeting is still in progress, officials say early outreach to friendly governments and institutions is essential to ensure Antigua and Barbuda can meet the logistical and security demands of the event.

Hurst also suggested that the government would again lean on its successful experience hosting international conferences, pointing to the smooth execution of the SIDS4 event in May 2024.

The 2026 CHOGM will mark the first time Antigua and Barbuda has hosted the biennial gathering, reflecting its growing presence on the global diplomatic stage.

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