— The Antigua and Barbuda Civil Liberties Movement says any major changes to Barbuda’s land ownership system, governance structure or future development plans should require the free, informed and meaningful consent of Barbudans.

The organization expressed concern over ongoing efforts to expand freehold land ownership and promote large-scale luxury real estate development on the island, arguing that the issue involves constitutional rights, local governance and democratic participation.

In a statement, the group cited Section 123(1) of the Constitution, which identifies the Barbuda Council as the principal organ of local government on the island. It said the council and the people it represents should be meaningfully consulted on decisions affecting Barbuda’s lands, resources and future.

The Antigua and Barbuda Civil Liberties Movement said Barbuda’s communal land system has historically protected residents from land speculation and the concentration of land ownership while preserving access to land for future generations.

The group called on the government to respect the constitutional role of the Barbuda Council and ensure that proposals involving land ownership, land administration or development are pursued transparently and with public participation.

According to the organization, development and investment can take place while respecting Barbuda’s land tenure system and local democratic institutions.