Dozens of women within The Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) will amplify their voices on a range of issues during the Union’s Annual Women’s Conference, which takes place on Wednesday, 9 July 2025.

This year’s conference is centered on the theme: “Accelerate Action for Women and Girls’ Rights, Empowerment and Equality.”

The full-day event will serve as a dynamic platform for female union members to speak openly about the challenges impacting their personal and professional lives.

Key areas of focus include equitable participation in the socio-economic landscape, improved access to affordable healthcare, and greater opportunities for women in leadership.

ABWU 1st Vice President and Women’s Coordinator, Hazel Luke is anticipating an enlightening and empowering experience for women.

“Last year’s inaugural conference was successful in stirring important discussions and setting in motion initial steps towards improving women’s experiences and contributions in the world of work,” Luke shared.

“This year we are building out further by ventilating other critical issues and developing resolutions that propel action.”

A highlight of the day will be a round table panel discussion exploring the following topics:

• The erosion of access to affordable healthcare
• The role of women in shaping the socio-economic framework
• The importance and impact of growing female membership in the Trade Union movement

Coming out of the Conference, the union anticipates the formal reestablishment of the Women’s Council, rebranded as the ABWU Women’s Improvement Network or ABWUWIN.

The Council will seek to provide a space for diverse representation and inclusive participation of skills, while creating opportunities for sharing experiences, training and mentoring.

The ABWU continues to recognize and prioritize the unique struggles that women face in the world of work and remains committed to advancing programs and policies that promote women’s rights, empowerment and equality.