Antigua and Barbuda
The islands of Antigua and Barbuda became an independent state within the British Commonwealth of Nations in 1981. Antigua is the main population center, and the hub for business and tourist activity. Barbuda, less developed, is home to smaller, exclusive resorts and a sanctuary for frigate birds.
The country's strength lies in its tropical climate and good beaches, which have made it popular as a stop-off point for US cruise ships and have attracted large investments in infrastructure. This reliance on tourism makes the nation vulnerable to downturns in the world market. Internet gambling sites based in the country are an alternative source of revenue. However, Antigua and the US have been locked in a trade dispute over US restrictions on online gaming.
Some 3,000 refugees fleeing a volcanic eruption on nearby Montserrat have settled in Antigua and Barbuda since 1995.
The islands have remained a reasonably stable democratic nation with constitutional safeguards including freedom of speech, press, worship, movement, and association. The head of state is Queen Elizabeth II, represented by Governor-General Sir James Carlisle. Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer and the opposition United Progressive Party won a landslide victory in general elections in March 2004. The win ended the political dynasty of the Bird family, which had dominated Antiguan politics for more than half a century. Spencer promised to fight corruption, a high-profile issue as former premier Lester Bird had faced allegations of bribery and of missing funds from Antigua's health care system.
Antigua & Barbuda are generally safe destinations for expatriates and there are no known threats against foreigners on the islands.
Once described as a center for drug money laundering, an international task force recognized Antigua and Barbuda in 2001 as being "fully cooperative" in the fight against the activity.
The hurricane season in Antigua and Barbuda normally runs from June to November.
