Constitutional safeguards include freedom of speech, press, worship, movement, and association. Antigua and Barbuda is a member of the eastern Caribbean court system. Jurisprudence is based on English common law. The economy is presently recovering from the aftermath of storm damage received during the hurricane season of 1995. Although not operating to its full potential, the tourism sector is gaining momentum.
Agriculture remains an important industry, though one in decline.
Fruit and vegetable production predominate, but the government has encouraged investment in livestock, cotton, and export- oriented food crops. The construction sector continues to grow. Inflation was moderate in 1996. In an attempt to restore the fiscal balance, the government has implemented various structural adjustment measures. The uncertainty produced by this program has weakened investment in the private sector despite favorable liquidity conditions.