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SIDS4

4th International Conference on Small Island Developing States
27-30 May 2024 | Antigua and Barbuda

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Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are in the crossfires of multiple crises: climate change, the socio-economic repercussions of COVID-19, and a crisis of debt. Global lockdowns left large holes in islands’ coffers and severely set back efforts to invest in the Sustainable Development Goals. Meanwhile, climate action is becoming increasingly urgent, as weather-related disasters have doubled in two decades: with island nations both most vulnerable and least responsible.

At this time of great peril, opportunity must be seized. In Antigua and Barbuda from 27 to 30 May 2024, the international community will gather for the 4th International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS4), to review SIDS’ sustainable development progress and propose a new decade of partnerships and solutions to supercharge their path to resilient prosperity.

UN News will have a team in St. Johns, the capital of Antigua and Barbuda, to give you a front row seat to all the action. From your mobile phone or computer, follow the key events and discussions as the delegates SIDS4 work towards an agreed, focused, forward-looking and action-oriented political outcome document.

Vinzealhar Ainjo Kwangin Nen, a youth speaker from Papua New Guinea, addresses a meeting on Small Island Developing States at the United Nations in New York...
UN Photo/Laura Jarriel

‘We may be small islands, but no man is an island’, Papua New Guinea youth tells world leaders

“All of us from small islands can relate to the word’s perception of us, as small islands”, but rather than treating them as distant vessels, imagine instead “an undivided Pacific, connected by an ocean highway.” That was the plea to world leaders from Vinzealhar Ainjo Kwangin Nen, on Friday, speaking on behalf of her generation, on the front line of climate change. 

Financing SDGs a major concern for Caribbean Community

Ensuring financing so that they can meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is among the top concerns for the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the man leading the regional bloc has said.

Secretary-General Irwin LaRocque said the organization also wants the region to be counted as a distinct group when it comes to measuring statistical progress towards the 17 goals.

The SDGs aim to eradicate extreme poverty, promote greater equality and protect the planet.

FAO/Sue Price

Small island developing states detail peace and security woes

The big issues facing small island developing states (SIDS) were the focus of debate in the UN Security Council on Thursday.

These challenges include tackling climate change, combatting transnational organized crime and meeting development goals.

Although they comprise less than 40 countries, SIDS span from the Caribbean to Africa and the Pacific. They are also located in the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea.

Dianne Penn reports.

Duration: 2'43"