‘Stand Firm Against Bullying’: Browne Urges Antiguans Not to Fear Powerful Nations

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has urged Antiguans and Barbudans to resist what he described as discriminatory and bullying practices by powerful nations, saying the country must remain fearless in defending its sovereignty.

In his Emancipation Day address, Browne argued that global political and economic power is increasingly being used to restrict the policy choices and development opportunities of small states.

“Stand firm against the evil, discriminatory and bullying practices of the powerful,” Browne said. “Let’s fight on as a fearless nation with fearless soldiers.”

The prime minister said Black-led nations, particularly small developing states, continue to encounter systemic barriers within the international economic system.

He accused powerful countries of using their influence to constrain sovereign decisions, restrict innovation and limit development options. Browne warned that such actions could become modern instruments of “economic recolonization,” preserving dependency instead of promoting genuine partnership.

He did not identify any country or institution in the address.

Browne told citizens not to fear or despair despite the challenges facing Antigua and Barbuda, arguing that adversity should strengthen the country’s resolve.

“We’ll continue to defend our sovereignty, expand economic opportunity, strengthen our democracy and advocate for a world in which every nation, regardless of size, enjoys equal dignity, equal opportunity and shared prosperity,” he said.

Browne connected those modern struggles to the continuing effects of slavery and colonialism, saying political independence did not eliminate the structural inequalities imposed on former colonies.

He said Antigua and Barbuda would continue pursuing its development agenda despite what he called the “punitive and exploitative actions of the powerful.”

The prime minister also renewed his call for a fairer international system based on cooperation, justice and mutual respect instead of domination and exclusion.

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