Antigua and Barbuda is among a group of countries contributing to a record year for the 2026 Commonwealth Short Story Prize, which received 7,806 entries from writers in 54 countries aged between 18 and 95.

Organisers said participation reached record levels in 12 countries, including Antigua and Barbuda, reflecting growing confidence among local writers and increased visibility for Caribbean voices on the global literary stage.

The prize also recorded a 36% rise in non-English submissions, highlighting its expanding linguistic diversity. Organisers said the increase shows how storytelling continues to cross borders and cultures.

They also acknowledged the role of support networks, as well as judges and past winners, whose guidance helped thousands of writers worldwide, including new entrants from Antigua and Barbuda.