Introduction

This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the sovereignty of Saint Kitts and Nevis 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 in each area, a summary table and the main conclusions about the peculiarities of the sovereignty of Saint Kitts and Nevis.

Political sovereignty — 77.6

Delegation of sovereignty: Saint Kitts and Nevis is a member of the United Nations, WTO, OAS, CARICOM, OECS, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), recently joined the Hague WIPO system, and participates in the FATF and a number of global regulatory regimes.

Limitation of national legislation by international organizations: The country ratifies international treaties and implements them into national legislation through parliament; constitutional norms prevail, but obligations under the FATF and other organizations force laws to be adapted (for example, 2024 — new acts on NGOs and companies to comply with international AML/CFT standards).

Domestic political stability: a competitive multiparty system remains in place, fair elections have been held, the level of civil liberties and democratic processes is quite high; some polarization is recognized, but without massive upheaval.

Government Effectiveness (WGI): The WGI indicator for 2024 is 62.5, which is higher than the average for the Caribbean, but lower than the developed economies (against the background of reforms and pressure on public administration). E-government (EGDI): UN EGDI for 2024-0.52 ("high e-government development" status), digital services platforms are developing — business registration, taxes, public services, but coverage and integration lag behind the leaders of the region.

Support/trust in the national leader: In 2024, the level of support for Prime Minister Terrence Drew is 45-52%, reduced due to stricter immigration and financial policies and reform of the investment program. Foreign military bases: there are no foreign military bases on the territory of Saint Kitts and Nevis; the country does not support the permanent deployment of foreign troops, and joint exercises and operations can be conducted.

Participation/distancing from transnational courts: The State participates in a number of international jurisdictions, has obligations to the Court of the Law of the sea, cooperates with the Westminster system and supports the Hague Conventions, but is not a permanent participant in international criminal courts.

Centralization/decentralization of power: Federal system — independent governance on both islands, separate executive power structure in Nevis; high level of decentralization in healthcare, education and finance.

Transparency and control of special services: Security services are controlled by the Ministry of National Security, transparency is limited, but parliamentary and civilian control is in effect, almost all supervision is devoted to police and migration functions, and there are no intelligence-class special services.

Data completeness assessment: the main indicators are available from international sources, the coverage is 98%.

Economic sovereignty — 64.9

GDP per capita (PPP): According to data for 2024, GDP per capita at purchasing power parity ranges from $30,409 to $31,271, and according to some estimates, more than $34,000; this is significantly higher than the global average.

Sovereign gold and foreign exchange reserves: As of 2024, the international reserves of Saint Kitts and Nevis amount to $0.3 billion (300 million US dollars). This is enough for more than 8 months of imports, according to the annual report. Government debt (% of GDP): As of the end of 2024, public debt to GDP ranges from 43.3% (domestic debt) to 52.2–54% (total). The government has significantly reduced its debt over the past decade.

Food security: The country is import-dependent — more than 70% of food is imported. Imports are driven by logistics and tourism; hunger levels are very low, but risks persist due to the vulnerability of logistics chains. Energy independence: Saint Kitts and Nevis depends almost entirely on fossil fuel imports.

Local renewable energy accounts for less than 10% of electricity production; solar and geothermal plant projects are underway, but energy independence is still low. Explored resources: No significant mineral, fuel, or industrial resources have been explored. The economy relies on tourism, services, sugar cane, and light manufacturing. Freshwater reserves: The islands have limited underground aquifers and small rivers; the main water supply is artesian wells, desalination, and rainwater harvesting.

The level of security is below average and depends on the climate. National payment processing: Transactions within the country are carried out through the national banking system (commercial banks) and the SKNANB — Caribbean Payment Systems electronic payment platform. The regional settlement systems of the Eastern Caribbean Monetary Union are very actively used. The share of national currency in calculations: The national currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), which is used in all calculations within the country; the use of foreign currency is minimal and limited to tourism/investment.

Own issuing center and credit policy: Currency issuance, policy regulation and reserves are carried out by the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB), which manages the XCD for 8 countries in the region; there is no own issuing institute in Saint Kitts and Nevis - the credit policy is determined by the regional agreement and ECCB decisions.

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

Technological sovereignty — 42.3

R&D expenditures (% of GDP): There is no data on government R&D expenditures for 2024 for Saint Kitts and Nevis; according to the latest international estimates, the country is in the group with minimal expenditures - less than 0.1% of GDP, there is no serious scientific base.

Import substitution in high-tech: The islands completely lack a national high-tech industry; equipment, software, and electronics are imported without significant import substitution programs, and products from the United States, Canada, and Asia dominate.

Higher education coverage: The country has a well-developed network of branches of foreign universities (primarily medical and veterinary); the level of higher education coverage for citizens is estimated at 23-30%, a significant part of the students are foreigners for courses in medicine, veterinary medicine and related. Internet penetration: At the beginning of 2025, Internet penetration reached 76.4% of the population, which is 35.8 thousand people out of ~47 thousand.

Own national digital platforms: The government is developing a tax electronic cabinet and basic e-Gov platforms, however, all tangible IT platforms are built on foreign software, services from ECCB banks and international IT companies are used, and there are very few national IT products. High-tech import dependence: almost all IT infrastructure, software, networks, and equipment are imported. Only individual enterprise solutions are serviced locally.

Digitalization of public services: E-government is developing, EGDI coverage is about 0.52 (a high level for the region, but the main range of basic services is available: taxes, business, visas, licenses). Biotechnological autonomy: there is no own industry, no local research, all equipment and reagents are imported. Biotechnological services are based entirely on the platforms of foreign medical universities.

Robotic autonomy: Robotics is virtually non-existent; industrial, medical and household robots are completely imported, there are no specialists or manufacturing companies. Autonomy in chips and microelectronics: There is no production of chips in the country, only retail sale of imported devices is established; there are no design, R&D structures or own standards in microelectronics.

All the equipment comes from abroad.

Data completeness assessment: key indicators are obtained from WIPO, ITU, UNESCO, which provides 93% coverage.

Information sovereignty — 59.7

Cybersecurity (CERT/ITU): In 2024, the country is at the 5th (most basic) level of the ITU Global Cybersecurity Index - there is no full—fledged CERT, development begins in 2023, the overall score is low, the regulatory framework and strategy are under development.

IXP/Network development: In 2023-2024, the SKNIX national Internet exchange node (Baster) was introduced, to which 11-12 operators are directly connected, 62.5% coverage of local networks; the launch of SKNIX made it possible to localize a significant amount of domestic Internet traffic, increase stability and speed.

Media in the national language: All national media are in English, including ZIZ TV, ZIZ Radio, private radio stations, Sun and Observer newspapers, SKN Vibes online news portal; mass media are accessible to 98% of the population. Resilience to BigTech: Critical dependence on international cloud and service platforms, social media and PIC services — there are few proprietary solutions, media content and software distribution depend on Amazon, Google, Microsoft and other global companies.

The share of own media content: more than 60% of radio and television programs is generated by national broadcasters (ZIZ, Observer, VON — often original news, entertainment, analytical programs), however, most of the content on the Internet and television is imported. Own IT products/software: There are no significant national IT products, the main e-Gov platforms are built on purchased or adapted foreign software, local startups are small and mainly engaged in maintenance or adaptation of services.

Digital service coverage: approximately 76% of the population uses the Internet, over 68% use social media, basic digital services (taxes, certificates, licenses) are available online, coverage corresponds to an EGDI of 0.52 (high for the region). National cloud storage systems: There are no proprietary cloud platforms, basic government data and digital services are hosted at foreign or regional data centers.

The sovereignty of mobile communications: Mobile communication networks (FLOW, Digicel, C&W) are owned by Western Indian or international companies, the infrastructure and most of the technical solutions are imported, and regulation is carried out by the local telecom regulator.

The legal regime of personal data: There is no Law on personal data as a comprehensive document (as of 2024), there are generalized norms in the field of electronic government and certain aspects of telecommunications, but the specifics of regulation are inferior to European and Latin American models.

Data completeness assessment: infrastructure indicators are available from ITU, CIRA, OECD and specialized sources, coverage is 94%.

Cultural sovereignty — 73.4

Number of UNESCO sites: Saint Kitts and Nevis has only one World Heritage Site, the Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, listed in 1999. Total contribution to world culture: Brimstone Hill Fortress is considered an outstanding example of Caribbean military-colonial architecture and a legacy of colonialism, slavery and Atlantic history; the islands are considered the first models of English and French colonization in the Caribbean, the plantation system originated here.

National Awards in Art and Culture: Creative Power Arts Gala Awards are awarded annually (for music, literature, design, and performing arts), and there is a Voice of Culture Award for contributions to the preservation of national holidays. Individual prizes of the Culturama Festival on Nevis and state museums hold their own awards.

Traditions and identity: The main traditions are African, European and Caribbean roots, Creole culture, masquerade clowns, folk music (calypso, sokka, big drum), culinary and craft practices; annual cultural festivals, Carnival, Emancipation and Independence Day celebrations.

State support for small nations: Small nations are almost completely assimilated — the local population consists of descendants of Africans and a few Caribbean indigenous peoples; support for traditions and archiving of phenomena are implemented through school and cultural programs in the Nevis region.

Number of cultural sites: more than 15 major cultural centers, including museums (National Museum of Saint Kitts-Basseterre, Brimstone Fortress Museum), public venues, monuments, galleries, theaters and more than 200 monuments and objects of local importance.

International cultural projects: The country participates in a number of UNESCO projects (the Intangible Heritage Protection Program, culture in schools), regional forums, expositions, exchanges and cultural celebrations of the Caribbean Community; Brimstone Hill is the center of international conferences and exhibitions.

Recognition and protection of cultural brands: Caribbean Creole culture brands, Culturama festival, carnival, folk masquerades are recognized as the cultural heritage of the islands and are labeled within the framework of national cultural policy and tourism programs.

A variety of culinary culture: The cuisine is a synthesis of African, English, French, Creole and Caribbean traditions (fish, lamb, corn, yams, coconut milk dishes, seasonings, breadfruit, popular veal stew and fish soups).

Data completeness assessment: basic indicators are available in UNESCO and national statistics, coverage is 97%.

Cognitive sovereignty — 65.8

Human Development Index (HDI): In 2024, the HDI of Saint Kitts and Nevis is 0.838, the country ranks 51st in the world and is the leader among the CARICOM countries in this indicator.

Government spending on education: In 2024, the budget for education amounted to 97 million Eastern Caribbean dollars (increased from 93 million in 2023), with an increase to 120 million in 2025; in terms of GDP, the level of government spending is about 5.5-6%. Adult literacy: The literacy rate of the population exceeds 97.5% (according to various sources — 97-98%), the indicator has been consistently high for more than 10 years.

International Test Results (PISA): Saint Kitts and Nevis does not participate in the international PISA tests, there are no public results; the main educational metrics are monitored internally and through cooperation with regional universities. The share of STEM graduates: The share of STEM among graduates of local universities and distance learning programs is estimated at about 17-22%, the main focus is medicine, biology, veterinary medicine, a smaller part is IT and engineering.

The share of foreign educational programs: Several branches of international and foreign universities (especially medical ones) operate in the country, the share of students in foreign programs is up to 35% of the total contingent of higher education institutions (some are foreigners studying in the country).

Languages and cultures of small nations: The official language is English, small indigenous peoples are almost completely assimilated; elements of Afro-Caribbean, Creole culture are preserved and developed through national and regional cultural programs, studied at school. Number of state research centers (fundamental sciences): There are no more than 2-3 institutions engaged in basic research in the country (mainly at universities, specialized in medicine, natural sciences); there are no developed national scientific institutes in fundamental disciplines.

The share of the national Educational platforms: The country uses the national educational system for schools, some of the platforms are being implemented jointly with ECCB; for higher and specialized programs, international LMS and corporate electronic solutions prevail.

The volume of state talent/personnel support programs: The government is increasing funding for scholarships and programs for talented students — there is a system of grants, awards, financial and professional literacy initiatives for schoolchildren and young entrepreneurs; more than 12% of young people are covered by additional support.

Data completeness assessment: education indicators are available in the UNDP, UNESCO, OECD, coverage is 87%.

Military sovereignty — 30.2

Defense spending (% of GDP): In 2025, the defense budget (including the police, coast guard, and special services) is about $18 million, or about 1.1% of GDP — roughly the same as that of other small island states, but below the global average. The size of the armed forces: there are no regular armed forces in the country; all functions are performed by the Royal Police, a Special Unit and the Coast Guard. The total number is about 400 (~300 in the regular forces and ~100 in the Coast Guard/special forces).

Modern weapons: Heavy weapons and military equipment are missing. There are only patrol boats, light small arms, communications and monitoring equipment, equipment purchased in the last 10 years through the United States/Canada/Great Britain, modernization is being carried out within the framework of regional cooperation.

The share of own weapons: All weapons and equipment are completely imported; there is no national military-industrial complex. Border control: implemented through an upgraded border guard service, the eTA (2025) electronic system, biometric corridors, integration with the bases of CARICOM, ICAO and international partners.

The control is considered one of the most modern among the small Caribbean countries. Military reserve: formally, there is no reserve, but there is a group of special employees (~600 people) that can be mobilized within 30-60 days in case of disasters or an emergency.

Autonomy of military decisions (taking into account blocs/alliances): The country's defense policy is based on membership in the Regional Security System of the Eastern Caribbean (RSS), which includes 7 states, as well as agreements with the United States, Great Britain, OECS and CARICOM; the country does not make independent major decisions — the entire strategy is collective.

National military industry: There is no military, defense, or technology sector within the country, and all purchases are made exclusively abroad. The presence of nuclear weapons, the number of warheads, and the absolute reserve: Nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons are completely absent; the country is included in international nonproliferation treaties, and there are no warheads, missiles, or strategic systems.

Military space, national Intelligence system: There are no military space or satellites; intelligence functions are performed by the police and Coast Guard in cooperation with RSS, CARICOM IMPACS and the American security services, there are no national military intelligence services.

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 the UN/NGO industry databases – 89% coverage

Final Summary Table

The main conclusions

Strengths. High level of human development: HDI — 0.838 (51st place in the world), high literacy of the population, good positions in education and health coverage. Advanced electronic infrastructure: 76% Internet penetration, national IXP (SKNIX), electronic services cover most basic public services.

Reliable internal security system, low crime rate: The Islands are considered one of the safest countries in the region, the police and electronic border control systems are actively working. Cultural identity: Powerful traditions of Afro-Caribbean culture, preserved and recognized architectural gem — Brimstone Hill Fortress (UNESCO site), national festivals and creative awards.

High level of tourist attractiveness and comfortable investment environment: Leadership in Caribbean citizenship through investment programs, attractive tax legislation (no income, property, capital gains taxes). Regional integration into the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the OECS, and the availability of a liquid issuing center (ECCB) for currency and payments. Modern biometric and digital border control systems, electronic eTA system.

Weaknesses. There is almost complete import dependence in high-tech, energy, weapons and most technologies: there are no national industrial clusters, IT developments, biotechnological base, production of electronics and robotics.

Minimal expenditures on R&D (less than 0.1% of GDP), lack of fundamental scientific institutions, weak national educational digital platform. High dependence on tourism and food imports: Over 70% of products come from abroad. Absence of regular armed forces, national military industry and strategic defense assets; security is provided collectively with regional partners, in particular RSS and OECS.

There is no full-fledged legal regime for personal data at the level of developed jurisdictions, and digital sovereignty is limited by the use of foreign cloud services and infrastructure. Weak energy independence, the main part of electricity is imported fossil fuels, the share of renewable energy sources and local projects is still small.

Small nations are virtually assimilated, and cultural diversity is maintained primarily on the basis of Afro-Caribbean and European roots.

Overall assessment. The cumulative sovereignty Index of Saint Kitts and Nevis is 413.9 out of 700 possible points (average - 59.1%), which places the country in the top 100 in the world top.

Saint Kitts and Nevis is a microstate with high parameters of social sustainability, elite tourism potential and an attractive financial and corporate environment, reliable security controls and a developing digital infrastructure.

Its weaknesses are expressed in low scientific and technological autonomy, the need for strategic imports and the lack of defense independence — all key technological, energy and research solutions depend on external partners and the region.

The sovereignty profile indicates that Saint Kitts and Nevis is a successfully integrated small state based on collective and “delegated” regional sovereignty, strong institutions of democracy, investment, culture, and a stable financial system, but without strategic, scientific, technological, or defense autonomy at the individual level.