DOMESTIC POLITICS: Barbados remains the least politically polarised country in the English-speaking Caribbean. In 2009/10, the DLP government will face the challenge of maintaining popular support in a difficult economic environment, which means it will need to focus on economic reactivation. This will result in a struggle to fulfil promises of improved public services and job creation. With a two-thirds majority in the House of Assembly (the lower house), the DLP has a strong legislative position. Although rifts within the party have eased since its election victory in January 2008, remaining differences will need to be managed skilfully if the party is to implement its policy agenda effectively. The opposition Barbados Labour Party retains a solid representation in parliament, led by Mia Mottley. The former prime minister, Owen Arthur (1994/2008), will remain on the opposition benches, providing a formidable challenge to the DLP.

Source: Barbados: Country outlook