Prime Minister Gaston Browne is urging Antiguans and Barbudans living overseas to consider returning home, arguing that economic growth and changing global conditions now present an opportunity to retain and reclaim national talent.

Speaking on the Browne and Browne Show on Pointe FM on Saturday, Browne said recent international policy shifts and uncertainty should be seen not only as challenges, but as a moment for Antigua and Barbuda to strengthen itself through what he described as a “brain gain.”

He was referencing an article written by Premier of Nevis Hon. Mark Brantley.

“There’s an opportunity now for more of our talent to remain at home, and even for some who are abroad to come back home to build our country,” Browne said, describing the moment as one that could help accelerate national development.

He said Antigua and Barbuda is in a far stronger position than in previous decades, with improved economic performance, expanded educational opportunities and a broader range of services now available locally.

“In the past, our people had practically no avenue other than to travel to the United Kingdom, the United States or Canada to get a university education,” Browne said. “Today, you can get a university education right here in Antigua.”

The prime minister also pointed to advances in healthcare, noting that procedures which once required overseas travel are now being performed locally. “There are many medical procedures that we are now doing here that people don’t have to travel abroad for anymore,” he said.

Browne said global changes in commerce and technology have also reduced the need for physical migration, citing the growth of e-commerce and remote transactions. He said Antiguans and Barbudans no longer need to leave the country to access goods, services or economic opportunity in the way they once did.

He urged citizens to recognise the quality of life available at home, highlighting the country’s natural environment and improving living standards. “On the basis that you have a few dollars here, you can enjoy a standard of living that is second to none,” Browne said.

The prime minister said encouraging skilled nationals to stay or return is essential to sustaining growth and preventing the loss of human capital needed for continued development.

“In every disappointment there is a blessing,” Browne said. “I just hope we see this as an opportunity to make our country stronger, more united, and to accelerate growth and development.”