Antigua and Barbuda has a mixed media system with public, private and digital providers. Antigua and Barbuda Broadcasting Services operates ABS Television, ABS Radio and Government Information Services and provides national information, news, events and public-service coverage. The Daily OBSERVER is a private NewsCo medium; the Observer Media Group also includes Observer Radio, HITZ FM, antiguaobserver.com and Observer Publications. These outlets cover local, regional and international news. Flow, Digicel and APUA inet provide television, mobile or internet access, including 4G LTE and fixed broadband where available. Coverage and service plans depend on the address and island, so availability in Barbuda should be checked separately. ABS also offers a live stream and online video and news archives. Global streaming and social-media platforms are generally reached through an internet or mobile provider, with no verified local OTT regulator or uniform national streaming tariff. The Government web portal publishes notices, press releases, tenders, events, vacancies and Cabinet Notes. Government agencies also use social media and WhatsApp for distribution, while Facebook is widely used in everyday digital communication. Observer Radio provides participation through call-ins, text messages and email. ABS accepts requests concerning television or radio coverage, press conferences, recordings and archives. Section 12 of the Constitution protects freedom of expression, the receipt and dissemination of information, the press, broadcasts and printed publications. Restrictions can concern public safety, public order, morality, health, the rights and reputation of others, privacy, confidential information and broadcasting regulation. The Copyright Act 2003 covers newspaper articles, films, broadcasts, photographs and sound recordings. ABIPCO is relevant to copyright administration, and Crown copyright material should be reproduced accurately, attributed and not placed in a misleading or offensive context; third-party permission may still be needed. The Defamation Act 2015 abolished criminal libel, but civil defamation claims remain possible. The Electronic Transactions Act 2006 contains rules for electronic records and intermediaries. The Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Bill 2026 is not confirmed as applicable law, so it should not be treated as an existing online-safety regime. Antigua and Barbuda also has no verified general press-card system, comprehensive online-safety regulator or age-assurance system. Operating a broadcasting station requires a broadcasting-station licence and a spectrum licence. The reviewed Form A1 and T1 process asks for information such as the applicant's name and address, nationality, purpose, transmitter location, maintenance and operator qualifications, service type and knowledge of the Radio Regulations. Fees and processing times were not stated in the reviewed material and should be confirmed with the Telecommunications Division before applying. Media users should check facts across government and private sources, respect privacy and consent, avoid defamatory material, verify copyright and attribution, and follow platform terms. Youth-related media education in Antigua and Barbuda addresses misinformation, disinformation, online hate speech, digital mental-health management, legal rights and accessibility; the YCM Chatline is a free, anonymous, text-based service for children and young people.
Media in Antigua and Barbuda
Media in Antigua and Barbuda includes newspapers, radio, television, streaming services and social-media channels used for news, public information and participation. ABS and Government Information Services provide public-service and government communications, while The Daily OBSERVER, Observer Radio and other private and digital channels provide additional reporting. Access depends on the island, address, internet or mobile provider and the chosen platform.
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