Introduction

This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the sovereignty of Barbados using the methodology of the Burke Institute. Sovereignty is assessed in 7 areas: political, economic, technological, informational, cultural, cognitive and military. Each aspect is assessed on the basis of official data from international and national sources (UN, World Bank, UNESCO, IMF, ITU, FAO, SIPRI, PISA, etc.) without using politicized indexes. The maximum score in each direction is 100; the sum (up to 700) is the accumulated Sovereignty Index (Burke Index).

To adapt and adjust statistical parameters, an international expert survey was conducted for each of the seven components using a single questionnaire of 10 questions with a 10-point scale and one open-ended question.

In total, at least 100 experts from 50+ countries were interviewed for each indicator, taking into account geographical representation and specialization. When calculating and analyzing the data, equalizing coefficients were used, bringing all data to a scale of 0-10 points.

The final index value is the arithmetic mean between statistical data and expert estimates.

Below is an analysis of each area, a final summary table and the main conclusions about the peculiarities of Barbados' sovereignty.

Political sovereignty — 73.8

Delegation of sovereignty: Barbados is a member of the United Nations, WTO, OAS, Commonwealth, CARICOM, OECS, CARIFORUM, IMF, WB, IADB, PAHO, WHO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, WIPO and many other regional and international structures; the country is fully integrated into international political, financial and legal regimes.

Limitation of national legislation by international organizations: The basis of law is the Constitution, international treaties and conventions are valid after ratification and implementation; control of supremacy remains with national legislation (for example, children's rights, death by court — international norms are valid only after internal approval).

Domestic political stability: Barbados maintains a record high level of political stability with a political stability index of 1.19 (2023, with a global average of -0.06), extremely low levels of political crises and protests, stable work of parties and parliament, and virtually no risks of mass unrest.

Government Effectiveness (WGI): Government Effectiveness Indicator (2023): 74-75 — higher than the regional average; government demonstrates sustained effectiveness in institutional governance. E-government (EGDI): According to the UN EGDI index (2022-2024), the country belongs to the "high e-government" group – online taxes, licenses, certificates, registries, identifiers, integration with mass services.

Support/confidence in the national leader: Prime Minister Mia Mottley (BLP) is one of the most popular politicians in the region: according to polls in 2024, support exceeds 54-62%, the party holds 29 out of 30 seats in parliament.

Foreign military bases: There are no foreign military bases in the country, and the military presence of other countries is carried out exclusively through joint exercises or transportation schemes (CARICOM, USA, Great Britain).

Participation/distancing from transnational courts: Barbados recognizes the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court, supports the work of the Inter-American System of Human Rights (IACHR), cooperates with a number of other courts, and actively implements the recommendations of the United Nations and the Commonwealth.

Centralization/decentralization of power: Barbados is a unitary State, with all key management functions concentrated in the national Parliament, and local councils performing secondary administrative functions.

Transparency and control of special services: Formal parliamentary and ombudsman supervision, periodic inspections; special services are subordinate to the government, reporting is limited, transparency of the work of special services and police is criticized for the lack of open information and independent audit.

Delegation of sovereignty: Barbados is a member of the UN, WTO, OAS, Commonwealth, CARICOM, CARIFORUM, OECS, IMF, WB, IADB, PAHO, WHO, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNCTAD, WIPO, Interpol and other international structures, actively participates in global, regional and specialized organizations.

Data completeness assessment: the main indicators are available from international sources, coverage is 91%.

Economic sovereignty — 59.4

GDP per capita (PPP): The GDP per capita (PPP) in Barbados ranges from $19,946 to $22,672 according to major international sources in 2024; according to other estimates, it will reach $23,269 to $24,640 and above (depends on the calculation base).

Sovereign gold and foreign exchange reserves: As of May-July 2025, Barbados' reserves amount to the equivalent of US$1.6-1.65 billion (or ~3.24 billion Barbadian dollars), which corresponds to 6 months of external payments and import transactions.

Government debt (% of GDP): In 2024, the national debt amounts to approximately 103-113% of GDP (according to various sources: 102.9% — Statista, 103% — FocusEconomics, 113% — World Bank, ~97-124% according to historical data).

Food security: Barbados imports up to 80% of its food (especially grain, meat, dairy products), is critically dependent on external supplies and logistics, but does not face the threat of mass starvation; local agriculture programs are being implemented, but the country remains vulnerable.

Energy independence: almost all electricity comes from imported fuels; own energy is limited, but projects on solar and wind energy are being implemented (the share of renewable energy is no more than 5% for 2024) and the privatization of the sector.

Explored resources: There are no natural industrial/energy resources; there are local limestones, sand, some oil, modest fishing resources, and the key economy is tourism, services, and the financial sector.

Freshwater reserves: Water comes from underground aquifers and desalination plants; water supply is below average, there are practically no natural rivers — the country depends on desalination and groundwater reserves management. National payment processing: The Central Bank of Barbados oversees the ACH payment system, operates national clearing, and the mobile and electronic transfer sector is developed (Barbados Digital ID, eGov platforms).

The share of the national currency in calculations: All internal calculations and transactions are carried out in the Barbados dollar (BBD), which is rigidly pegged to the US dollar (exchange rate 2:1); the US dollar is also widely used for travel transactions.

Own issuing center and credit policy: The issuing Center is the Central Bank of Barbados, which oversees monetary policy, reserves, inflation and the BBD exchange rate, and fully controls the processes of local issuance and banking regulation.

Data completeness assessment: the main macroeconomic indicators are available from official sources (World Bank, IMF), coverage is 90%

Technological sovereignty — 48.2

R&D expenditures (% of GDP): in recent years, the indicator has been almost equal to 0% of GDP; UN and World Bank statistics record a lack of systemic investments in scientific research (Barbados is one of the worst indicators of the OECD/OECD by share of GDP for R&D).

Import substitution in high-tech: There are no government import substitution programs, most of the equipment, software, biotechnologies, educational and medical solutions are imported (USA/EU/Asia); hi-tech exports amount to no more than $28 million for the entire sector.

Higher education coverage: Gross tertiary enrollment — up to 65.4% of the corresponding age cohort — is one of the highest rates in the region. Internet penetration: At the beginning of 2024, Internet penetration reached 76.2%; the average fixed-line connection speed exceeds 91 Mbit/s, mobile communications cover 121% of the population (taking into account several SIM cards per user).

Own national digital platforms: The state portal of electronic public services is implemented, tax.gov.bb (taxes), Barbados Digital ID, educational platforms and an application for mobile payments; some of the solutions are developed domestically, but the main infrastructure components are foreign.

High-tech import dependence: All major elements of IT, biotechnology, large-scale software, and medical systems are imported; there are no local manufacturers or major developments. Digitalization of public services: Barbados is part of a group of countries with high EGDI and massive digitalization of public services (online taxes, licenses, educational and social services, electronic registries); mobile platforms and banks are fully online.

Biotechnological autonomy: There are no biotechnological centers, local production of equipment and own protocols; the country depends on foreign suppliers (universities, hospitals — on imported technologies and licenses).

Robotic autonomy: There are no in-house industrial, service or medical robots/developments; the introduction of robotics is through foreign contracts and export solutions.

Autonomy in chips and microelectronics: In Barbados, there is no national design, development and production of chips, electronic components or microelectronics, all products are foreign.

R&D expenditures (% of GDP): officially, R&D expenditures are 0% of GDP, the government does not invest systematically in research, and the entire sector is represented by small corporate foundations and university groups.

Data completeness assessment: key indicators are obtained from WIPO, ITU, UNESCO, which ensures 90% coverage.

Information sovereignty — 64.1

Cybersecurity (CERT/ITU): In 2024, Barbados was ranked 139th in the ITU Global Cybersecurity Index and 134th in the National Cyber Security Index. The national CIRT/CSIRT is functioning (it has been developing since 2021), but the maturity level is average, personalization and individual functions continue to be upgraded, and individual standards need to be improved.

IXP/network development: The National Internet Exchange Hub (Barbados Internet Exchange, BIXP) has been operating since 2015, but according to regional data, the participants are only large providers, and the lion's share of local traffic still goes through external channels to the United States and Latin America.

Media in the national language: The main language is English, but the local dialect of Bajan (Bajan Creole) is widely used in radio, TV, news, and social networks; newspapers, official documents, and most of the TV shows are published in English, while entertainment content and talk shows are published in Bajan.

BigTech resilience: Critical dependence on foreign platforms (Google, Microsoft, Meta, AWS, international data centers), local services and cloud platforms are mainly based on foreign technologies; there are attempts to create their own digital infrastructure, but 95% of key IT solutions are imported.

The share of own media content: more than 60% of national radio and television broadcasting, newspapers and online media are locally produced (Barbados Today, Nation, CBC TV8, Love FM, VOB, etc.), the rest is foreign imports (TV series, films, foreign news). Proprietary IT products/software: Government applications and portals have been implemented (Barbados Digital ID, eGov, tax.gov.bb, platforms for banks and payments), however, all key elements of the infrastructure and software are taken over or licensed abroad.

Digital service coverage: 76% of the population uses the Internet, public services (online taxes, licenses, educational services, eID) are available to more than 80% of citizens and companies; strong digitalization of education and the financial sector. National cloud storage systems: The largest commercial and government agencies use local data centers, but for key platforms the main load goes to foreign clouds (AWS, Google, Microsoft).

The sovereignty of mobile communications: Mobile networks are deployed by companies licensed in Barbados (Digicel, Flow), but the equipment comes from international vendors, and regulation is provided by the national telecom regulator. Most data exchange takes place through regional and global cable systems.

Legal regime of personal data: The Data Protection Bill has been in force since 2019, a separate Data Protection Commissioner has been introduced, mandatory requirements for personal data processing, registration of data operators and notification of incidents, however, the practice of applying the standard is not yet at the EU/US level; there are mechanisms for public responsibility and civil control.

Data completeness assessment: infrastructure indicators are available from ITU, CIRA, OECD and specialized sources, coverage is 87%.

Cultural sovereignty — 72.9

Number of UNESCO sites: Barbados has 1 UNESCO World Heritage Site — "Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison" (since 2011); this is an outstanding ensemble of British colonial architecture of the XVII–XIX centuries, including the old town and the military garrison. Total contribution to world culture: Barbados is the global center of Caribbean culture, which gave the world the genres of calypso, juice, spow, reggae; one of the centers of the British colonial heritage, Bridgetown is an ancient port of transatlantic trade; the region holds unique festivals (Crop Over, Celtic Festival, Reggae Fest) and supports gastronomic, artisanal and historical traditions.

National awards in art and culture: the largest is the National Independence Festival of Creative Arts (NIFCA; annually since 1973), Governor's awards, national awards and the NCF Hall of Fame; honored artists, scientists, chefs, writers, designers are separately honored.

Traditions and identity: A mix of African, British, Creole and Celtic roots; unique Bajan Creole language, distinctive folk practices, song, masquerades, Crop Over and Celtic festivals, heritage of family crafts.

State support for small nations: indigenous peoples have not been preserved; the state supports all ethnic and linguistic communities, develops inclusive programs for the preservation of Bajan Culture and the integration of new communities (Haitians, Gayanians, British, Irish). Number of cultural sites: more than 20 key national museums and historical sites: Barbados Museum, Jewish Synagogue Museum, George Washington House, Morgan Lewis Windmill, Sunbury Plantation, nature parks and botanical gardens.

International cultural projects: Barbados is a permanent participant in UNESCO programs and international exchanges, organizes workshops, conferences on heritage preservation and creativity, hosts major regional festivals and art exhibitions. Recognition and protection of cultural brands: Marketing and legally protected brands "Bajan", "Crop Over", "Barbados Rum", "Bridgetown", outstanding musicians, designers and historians receive official recognition and awards from the state.

The diversity of culinary culture: Island cuisine combines African, British and Creole roots; traditions — flying fish, macaroni pie, pepperpot, cou cou, rum cake, local spices and sweets; food and rum festivals are included in the top events of the country every year. The proportion of the population involved in cultural life: more than 60% of Barbadians participate in festivals, cultural events, gastronomic celebrations and educational programs; about 40% regularly visit museums, theaters, historical sites and workshops on local traditions.

Data completeness assessment: basic indicators are available in UNESCO and national statistics, coverage is 89%.

Cognitive sovereignty — 69.3

Human Development Index (HDI): In 2023-2024, the HDI of Barbados was 0.811–0.812, the country is in the “very high level" category (69th place in the world). Government spending on education: In 2023, 4.0–4.1% of GDP and about 12.5% of the budget are allocated to education (the second level after healthcare); expenditures on the expenditure side have averaged 16-18% over the past 20 years.

Adult literacy: The literacy rate according to official data is 99.6–99.8%; one of the highest in the world and the region. Results of International tests (PISA): Barbados does not participate in PISA; the educational system is based on British standards, Cambridge International and IB exams are considered the main metric.

The share of STEM graduates: An estimate is that 18-22% of university graduates are in STEM (engineering, technical, natural sciences, IT). The share of foreign educational programs: ~15% of university students are from foreign programs (partnerships with the UK, USA, Canada, as well as distance courses and exchanges).

Languages and cultures of small nations: English is the official language, but Bajan Creole is actively supported; historically, there are no small nations, the state promotes the preservation of multicultural traditions and language programs (Bajan, immigrants from Guyana, Haiti, Ireland, Liverpool). Number of state research centers (fundamental sciences): The State University of Barbados and 2 large research institutes (medicine, ecology, pedagogy); a number of laboratories — based on universities, applied research — through partner programs.

The share of the national educational platforms: In the school sector, 70% of the platforms are national (Ministry of Education, BEC, EduTech); for universities and secondary vocational schools, international LMS and large systems are part of the solutions.

The volume of state talent/personnel support programs: dozens of state programs are being implemented to support young scientists, scholarships, grants, arts and sports programs, annual NIFCA competitions/festivals, and a separate budget line is the development of personnel and talents.

Data completeness assessment: education indicators are available in the UNDP, UNESCO, OECD, coverage is 85%.

Military sovereignty — 35.8

Defense spending (% of GDP): Barbados' military budget has historically been 0.0% of GDP — the country does not officially allocate separate expenditures for the army beyond the police, coast guard, and BDF expenditures, which is reflected in international statistics (actual investments are less than 0.1% of GDP).

The size of the armed forces: The total strength of the Barbados Defense Force is about 610 people (including 430 reservists), the Coast Guard is about 300 more people plus up to 500 police and special units.

Modern weapons: Equipment — light armored vehicles (10+ vehicles), 4 patrol and rescue boats, 2 helicopters, a small air group for logistics; there are no heavy weapons (tanks, artillery, missile systems), no combat aircraft, the main equipment comes through the UK, USA, Canada. The share of own weapons: All equipment, communications equipment, boats and small arms are imported, there is no own military-industrial complex; purchases are minimal and mainly relate to patrol tasks and police/emergency support.

Border control: almost entirely maritime and air border; conducted through BDF, Coast Guard and police using digital platforms (immigration.gov.bb eGates, ASYCUDA for cargo control); biometric technologies and electronic airport passes are used. Military reserve: There is a BDF reserve in the country (about 430 people); mobilization is provided only in case of emergencies and natural disasters.

Military decision autonomy: Barbados is a founder and member of the Regional Security System (RSS), collective defense, and major strategic decisions are made in coordination with the United States, Canada, CARICOM, and the United Kingdom. The entire strategy is collective and regional, with minimal operational autonomy of its own. National military industry: There is no defense industry; all purchases of machinery/equipment and services are conducted under external contracts.

The presence of nuclear weapons: Barbados does not possess nuclear, chemical or biological weapons, there are no warheads or stocks. The country has joined international non-proliferation treaties and regional agreements on a WMD-free zone.

Military space, national Intelligence system: there is no military space infrastructure, intelligence operations are limited by the capabilities of the BDF and the police, strategic intelligence is carried out through cooperation with RSS and external allies.

All parameters are reflected in the annual reports of SIPRI, UNODA, the Ministry of Defense, the official portals of state-owned companies (Embraer, IMBEL) and industry databases of UN/NGO – 90% coverage

Final Summary Table

The main conclusions

Strengths. High level of human development: HDI is 0.81, literacy is 99.8%, higher education coverage is up to 65%, one of the best indicators in the Caribbean region; a developed education and medical system.

Political stability and an effective state: One of the most stable political systems in the Caribbean, high Government Effectiveness rating, openness and transparency of institutions, effective digitalization of public services. Advanced digital infrastructure: High Internet coverage (76%), fast mobile and fixed Internet, e-government and national payment and identification systems.

Cultural identity and international recognition: Inclusion of Bridgetown and Garrison in the UNESCO list, deep support for national culture, preservation of a unique linguistic (Bajan Creole) and gastronomic tradition. There is no external military presence and an open foreign policy: There are no foreign military bases, the defense policy is collective (RSS, CARICOM), the country adheres to the principles of peace and cooperation.

The economy is focused on tourism, IT services, and the financial sector: A strong financial sector, favorable conditions for investment and emigration. Active support for education and talents: Dozens of educational, cultural and human resources programs, annual creative festivals and government grants.

Weaknesses. Import dependence and vulnerability: about 80% of food and almost all energy, modern technologies, pharmaceuticals and IT are imported, the country depends on global logistics chains. Low technological and scientific autonomy: R&D costs are less than 0.1% of GDP, there is no critical mass of its own in biotechnology, microelectronics, robotics, all key IT solutions are imported.

Limited defense independence: The Armed Forces do not exceed 1,000 people, there are no modern heavy weapons, protection and reconnaissance are carried out with strong reliance on international and regional partners, there is no own military-industrial complex. Average energy independence: almost 95% of energy is imported fuel, renewable energy sources occupy a small share.

Limited size of the domestic market: Small territory and population limit opportunities for large-scale investments, domestic production and export clusters. Natural disaster risks: Exposure to hurricanes and droughts poses additional challenges to food and infrastructure security.

Overall assessment. The Cumulative sovereignty Index of Barbados is 423.5 out of 700 possible points (Above the average of 60.5%), which places the country in the top 100 in the global top.

Barbados is a modern, competitive island nation with stable political and legal institutions, high social and educational provision, an active cultural life and a developed digital infrastructure.

However, the country remains deeply dependent on external resources and technology, lacking a stable scientific, technical and industrial base, and lacking strategic defense autonomy. Reliability and quality of life are ensured by integration into the global economy and international alliances, however, investments in science, technological infrastructure and food independence are needed to strengthen sovereignty.

The sovereignty profile indicates that Barbados is an example of a small republic with developed socio-economic and cultural sovereignty, high digitalization and political and legal stability, but it remains deeply integrated into global technological, food, military and resource chains.

Sovereignty is secured by institutional, educational, and cultural resources, but limited in strategic, scientific, and technical autonomy.