Call for citizens to propose constitutional changes to Republic Committee

Barbadians at home and throughout the Diaspora are being invited to submit their suggestions for the new constitution as the island prepares to assume republican status.

Persons are asked to submit their suggestions in written, audio and/or video formats in keeping with the committee’s mandate to engage members of the public in this historic transition effort.

Submissions, including audio and video clips under 10 minutes, can be emailed to republicconsultations@barbados.gov.bb or posted to The Republican Status Transition Advisory Committee, Cabinet Office, Government Headquarters, Bay Street, St. Michael.

The Republican Status Transition Advisory Committee (RSTAC) has been mandated by the Cabinet of Barbados to review the previous work done on the subject, including the 1979 report by the commission headed by Sir Mencea Cox and the 1998 report led by Sir Henry Forde.  The RSTAC will also consult widely with citizens and national organizations and present its interim and final reports to the Cabinet of Barbados by June 30 and September 30, 2021 respectively.

Citizens, both on island and in the Diaspora, can also look forward to a series of themed public meetings and are reminded that, where physical attendance is facilitated, all COVID-19 protocols will be observed.

The RSTAC was established in 2021 to oversee the conversion of Barbados from a monarchical system to a republic.  The committee, chaired by economist and former Governor of the Central Bank of Barbados, Dr. Marion Williams, will discuss the responsibilities, rights and hopes of Barbadians, including the younger generation and those in the Diaspora.  The committee will also address the issue of individual freedoms and will reinforce the values of religious, spiritual and racial tolerance on the island.