Dates of last and next legislative elections: L. House 2003/2008
U. House 2003/2008

Head of state: H.M. Queen Elizabeth II

AT THE LAST ELECTION

Barbados is a multiparty democracy. Owen Arthur, BLP leader and prime minister, prioritizes economic growth and international competitiveness. His party was swept to power in 1994 and won further victories in 1999 and 2003. However, the opposition DLP made significant gains in the 2003 poll as the government began to encounter economic difficulties. Arthur has previously pledged to transform Barbados into a republic.

From "The Financial Times World Desk Reference" © Dorling Kindersley 2004