Antiguan lawyer Zachary Phillips has secured a major regional role. His appointment comes ahead of critical climate talks.

He now serves as Legal Coordinator for the Alliance of Small Island States. This role covers two major meetings. These include SB64 in June 2026 and COP31 in November 2026.

Currently, Phillips works as Crown Counsel. He serves in the Office of the Attorney General. Therefore, his appointment reflects growing trust in his expertise.

Previously, he joined AOSIS as a fellow in 2022. At that time, Antigua and Barbuda held the chair. Since then, his role has expanded steadily. As a result, his journey highlights the purpose of AOSIS.

He described this progress as meaningful. He said AOSIS builds capacity within small island states. Now, those same experts help lead negotiations. In other words, the system is working.

Meanwhile, his duties will be demanding. He must coordinate legal responses among all AOSIS delegates. This ensures a unified voice during negotiations. Therefore, alignment becomes essential.

In addition, preparation plays a key role. Delegates meet before negotiations begin. They come from countries like Antigua and Barbuda, Jamaica, Tuvalu, Micronesia, and Palau. Together, they agree on shared positions.

However, challenges remain. Phillips noted he cannot attend every meeting room. Likewise, the AOSIS chair cannot be everywhere. So, clear guidance becomes critical for all delegates.

Furthermore, one legal issue stands out. It involves the recent advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice. This opinion addresses climate obligations.

Phillips made the position clear. He said AOSIS views the opinion as authoritative and definitive. He also stressed it already represents law. Therefore, diplomats should not attempt to rewrite it.

Even so, reaching agreement remains complex. Under COP rules, decisions require full consensus. As a result, every party must agree before adoption. This often slows progress.

Beyond policy, Phillips shared personal advice. He urged young Antiguans to aim high. He warned against self-doubt and limits.

He said passion guided his own path. Although he is still young, he pursued international law. Consequently, he created opportunities for himself.

Finally, he encouraged persistence. Success may come, or lessons may follow. Either way, growth continues.