By Robert Andre Emmanuel
As the United States withdraws from the World Health Organization (WHO), Antigua and Barbuda is spearheading efforts to establish a regional vaccine procurement fund, marking a significant shift in the Caribbean’s approach to healthcare security.
Cabinet has approved plans to present a draft resolution to CARICOM that would enable member states to set aside funds specifically for vaccine procurement, Chief of Staff Ambassador Lionel Hurst revealed during yesterday’s post-Cabinet press briefing.
“We are preparing ourselves, utilizing a mechanism that could be very helpful whenever and if ever there is a pandemic in the future,” Hurst said, emphasizing the proactive nature of the government’s response.
The initiative comes as the Trump administration’s withdrawal from WHO threatens to disrupt global healthcare funding.
The US previously contributed approximately $988 million to WHO’s annual budget, representing 14 percent of the organization’s total funding.
According to Hurst, the Gaston Browne administration’s proposal aims to protect smaller Caribbean nations from potential disruptions in vaccine access and other essential healthcare services.
“Although bigger CARICOM countries might have more resilience, small countries such as ours with 100,000 people face unique challenges,” Hurst explained. “The Cabinet has shown willingness to delve into some really very difficult waters to ensure that Antigua and Barbuda is safe.”
The proposed fund would operate independently of existing international healthcare frameworks, potentially providing a model for other small island states seeking to strengthen their healthcare industry.
Cabinet’s decision reflects growing concerns about the impact of shifting US foreign policy on regional healthcare systems.
Beyond the WHO withdrawal, recent policy changes have affected various cooperative initiatives, including planned healthcare research projects with major US institutions, and a withdrawal of USAID institutions worldwide.
“We are watching and taking notes of those decisions that we think will impact us significantly,” Hurst added.
The resolution is expected to be presented at the next CARICOM meeting, where member states will discuss the implementation framework and funding mechanisms for the proposed healthcare initiative.
The 48th Regular Meeting of Caricom Heads of Government will be held later this month in Barbados from February 19 to 21.
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