Prime Minister Gaston Browne is celebrating the positive assessment that Antigua
and Barbuda achieved in the latest United Nations Human Development Index
(HDI) report that was issued last week.
The report said Antigua and Barbuda has seen positive improvements in the lives
of nationals and residents of the twin-island state. Antigua and Barbuda currently
ranks 54 th of the 193 countries listed by the UN HDI report. Only St. Kitts-Nevis
ranks higher within the Caribbean. at #51.
Speaking on the Browne and Browne show over the weekend, PM Browne said
the latest ranking by the UN HDI is a reflection of the hard work that his
administration has performed on behalf of the people over the last almost ten years.
“I believe that the period we have served in office has been a very impactful period
as we have lifted the country’s economy; we have lifted the people; we have
enlarged their prospects and that has been demonstrated by the recent UN HDI. It
is the first time that we have seen an improvement in our rankings,” he stated.
According to the prime minister Antigua and Barbuda attained a ranking of 29 th in
the world when the system was first introduced more than two decades ago.
However, since then the country lost ground based on its rankings until it was
ranked at number 77. Now Antigua and Barbuda at number 54, trails St Kitts Nevis
by less than a percentage of a point.
PM Minister expressed confidence that Antigua and Barbuda’s rankings will
continue to improve. “|I have no doubt that based on the current trajectory with our
rate of economic growth at an average of 8 percent and with our build out in our
socio-economic infrastructure such as our sea and airports and the UWI FIC,
Antigua and Barbuda will continue its upward march on the UNHDI list,” he
emphasized.
This index considers factors such as life expectancy, education, and standard of
living, providing insights into the overall well-being and development of a nation.
While these numbers indicate progress, it’s essential to continue addressing
challenges and ensuring sustainable development for all.
In summary, the report observed, while Antigua and Barbuda has made progress,
ongoing efforts are necessary to enhance well-being, address vulnerabilities, and
promote sustainable development in the context of SIDS.
