As the country prepares for the second round of consultations on the 2026 Workplace Harassment Bill on March 4th, Jamie Saunders, Executive Director of the Directorate of Gender Affairs, is calling the legislation a “major moment” and a “milestone” for Antigua and Barbuda.
The Bill aligns national law with standards set by the International Labour Organization (ILO)—a global body that ensures work is fair and safe. According to Saunders, the legislation demonstrates a commitment to “not shy away from what could sometimes be deemed controversial” by institutionalizing protections for all workers.
A key focus of the Directorate is ensuring the law keeps pace with modern technology. Saunders noted that workplace boundaries are no longer limited to the physical office, as professional interactions now frequently occur on social media, WhatsApp, and various messaging platforms.
