Barbados is finally a republic: What does this mean?

The Caribbean nation of Barbados, known for its stunning beaches and sceneries, has recently embarked on a new chapter by cutting political ties with Great Britain’s monarchy to become a new republic. This island nation became independent from Britain all the way back in 1966. However, Queen Elizabeth retained her position as its sovereign up until 2021. The formal celebration for this significant moment in Barbados’ history took place on November 30, 2021 which also happens to be its Independence Day. Prince Charles made an appearance at this event for the official handover. Here is all you need to know about the complicated history of Barbados. 

Barbados’ relationship with Great Britain 
Barbados’ relationship with Great Britain is complicated, and has existed over 339 years. The island nation was one of Britain’s very first colonial settlements in the West Indies (which is the group of islands in the Caribbean which Barbados is a part of.) A cohort of 80 English settlers had established the very first settlement in 1627 in the present-day city of Holetown, Saint James. Ever since then, Britain went on to establish its rule which lasted up until 1966. The two nations held strong ties throughout the colonisation period, and still continue to do so even today.  

What does Barbados becoming a republic mean? 
With the monarch of Great Britain no longer in the position of the head of this island nation, the constitutional status will undergo change. Although the Queen was the titular head (she did not possess any executive powers), the title itself is enough to distinguish a republic from a constitutional monarchy. A republic is where the head of state is selected through the means of voting, and is not conferred based on heredity. Therefore, now, Barbados will have elections to choose the head of state who will have ultimate democratic power.  

What does this political shift entail? 
The emergence of Barbados as a republic is mostly titular. It will not have any effects whatsoever on the trade or overall economic situation. For Barbadians, there will be no major shift at all, nor will there be any in politics either, since it does not affect the working or structure of the government.