St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda – 12th June 2026 – Prime Minister the Rt. Hon. Gaston Browne has appointed internationally renowned marine scientist and resilience expert Dr. Deborah Brosnan, Ph.D. as Special Envoy for Coastal Resilience and Ocean Economy for the Government of Antigua and Barbuda.
According to the Instrument of Appointment issued by the Office of the Prime Minister on May 12, 2026, Dr. Brosnan has been entrusted with representing Antigua and Barbuda on matters related to coastal resilience, marine conservation, climate adaptation and the sustainable development of the ocean economy. The appointment is valid for one year, ending on May 11, 2027.
The appointment comes at a critical time as Antigua and Barbuda continues to strengthen its international leadership on climate resilience, ocean governance and sustainable development. As a Small Island Developing State (SIDS), the country faces increasing threats from sea-level rise, coastal erosion, stronger hurricanes and the degradation of marine ecosystems that support tourism, fisheries and livelihoods.
Under the terms of her appointment, Dr. Brosnan is authorized to speak and represent Antigua and Barbuda at appropriate international forums, initiate discussions with non-governmental organizations and development partners to secure resources for coastal enhancement and ocean-related projects, advise the Prime Minister on opportunities for international assistance, and provide technical guidance to government ministries and agencies on matters relating to resilience and the blue economy.
Prime Minister Browne said the appointment reflects Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to leveraging world-class expertise in advancing solutions to the climate and environmental challenges facing island nations. The Government has consistently advocated for stronger global action on climate change, enhanced access to climate financing, and greater international support for vulnerable coastal states.
Dr. Brosnan brings more than two decades of experience in marine science, environmental policy, climate resilience and ecosystem restoration. She is internationally recognized for her work advising governments, international organizations and private sector entities on climate adaptation and sustainable coastal development. Through her OceanShot initiative, she has championed innovative approaches to coral reef restoration and the use of natural infrastructure to protect coastlines and strengthen local economies. The initiative is already being developed in partnership with Antigua and Barbuda and focuses on restoring reefs that enhance biodiversity, support fisheries and protect vulnerable coastlines.
Her appointment also aligns with Antigua and Barbuda’s broader efforts to expand its Blue Economy agenda. The Government has been actively engaged in international ocean governance discussions, sustainable ocean planning, marine conservation initiatives and climate resilience programmes aimed at safeguarding the country’s extensive marine resources. Recent engagements have included participation in global ocean summits, United Nations ocean treaty negotiations and the advancement of national policies to support sustainable ocean management.
The Government views the ocean not only as an environmental asset but as a vital pillar of economic growth, food security, tourism development and climate resilience. Through the appointment of Dr. Brosnan, Antigua and Barbuda seeks to strengthen international partnerships, attract investment for marine and coastal projects, and position itself as a leader among Small Island Developing States in the sustainable management of ocean resources.
As Special Envoy, Dr. Brosnan is expected to play a key role in advancing Antigua and Barbuda’s vision of building resilient coastal communities, protecting marine ecosystems and unlocking the full potential of the nation’s blue economy for future generations.
