WASHINGTON, CMC – On Friday, Antigua and Barbuda and the State of Palestine established diplomatic relations, advancing the step taken in 2011 when Antigua and Barbuda declared its recognition of Palestine as a State.
Antigua and Barbuda’s Foreign Minister E signed the agreement in New York. Paul Chet Greene and Palestine’s Ambassador with Ministerial rank, Dr. Riyad Mansour, also signed it. The agreement resulted from a decision by Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne, which the country’s Cabinet endorsed.
Prime Minister Browne tasked me with negotiating the agreement’s text between Antigua and Barbuda and the State of Palestine. This diplomatic move was strategically sensitive, given the complex dynamics of the Palestine-Israel conflict over Gaza.
Since achieving independence, Antigua and Barbuda, like many nations in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, has maintained diplomatic relations with Israel. The decision to extend similar relations to Palestine was made not to repudiate ties with Israel but to provide equitable diplomatic recognition to both states, thereby supporting our role in fostering global peace and security. Such a role could not be played with credibility and authority if diplomatic relations were established with only Israel.
Critics may argue that Antigua and Barbuda, a relatively small Caribbean state, should avoid entanglement in the complex politics of Middle Eastern affairs. However, the recent actions of other small states within the European Union—such as Ireland, Norway, and Spain—illustrate a broader trend. These nations have recognized the State of Palestine, challenging the perspectives of more prominent EU members and underscoring the importance of self-determination and respect for sovereignty. This principle is crucial for small countries, whose fate should not be dictated by the geopolitical interests of more powerful nations.
The intractable conflict between Israel and Palestine has persisted without resolution since 1947, when the United Nations, then dominated by European nations and the victors of World War II, partitioned Palestine into Jewish and Arab states. Notably, at that time, no Caribbean countries except Haiti were UN members, and most African nations, still under colonial rule, lacked representation. This European-dominated decision-making process left many regions without a voice, a historical oversight that small states today are working to correct, even in the face of enormous pressure.
The declaration of the State of Palestine by the Palestine Liberation Organization in 1988 marked a significant shift. By then, the global context had evolved, with many former colonies gaining independence and joining the international community. This period saw a swift recognition of Palestine by 78 countries, a movement primarily driven by nations previously marginalized in global decision-making.
Currently, 144 UN member states recognize the State of Palestine. This growing consensus challenges the earlier resistance by some Western nations and highlights the persistence of Israel’s policies perceived as aiming to subjugate the Palestinian people. The increasing global recognition of Palestine not only bolsters the Palestinian people’s claim to self-determination but also bolsters efforts to reinvigorate the stalled peace process, including by moderate groups in Israel who are fed up with living in a state of unending war.
While Antigua and Barbuda unequivocally condemns the violence by Hamas against Israel, as well as the disproportionate responses by Israeli forces, it advocates for a balanced approach that supports the creation of two secure and peaceful states. This vision aligns with international legal principles of peace and human rights and justice and fairness.
The role of small states in global diplomacy is not merely symbolic; it can be pivotal. Countries such as Antigua and Barbuda’s involvement bring a unique perspective shaped by colonization histories and self-determination struggles. By participating actively in international diplomacy, small states can help mediate conflicts and push for solutions that larger nations alone have yet to achieve.
The voice of small states is the voice of moral suasion and truth.
It is a role that is acknowledged in influential councils of the world, such as the Congress of the US, where on June 12, 2024, the Chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, Gregory W. Meeks, singled out Antigua and Barbuda for its leadership role with 24 member states of the Organization of American States “to condemn Russia’s continued aggression in Ukraine.” In this case, Antigua and Barbuda were on the side of the principles of the UN Charter and international law, including repudiation of aggression and invasion.
Establishing diplomatic relations with Palestine reflects Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to upholding international law and contributing to peace. It underscores small states’ influence in the global arena, championing justice and equality.
Overcoming history is not easy, but the legacy of ills still needs to be remedied. The world will continue to be plagued by injustice, unfairness, and conflict, and no nation, large or small, will escape. Leaders like Prime Minister Gaston Browne exemplify the courage needed to steer these critical decisions, demonstrating that small states can play a significant role in addressing global issues.
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