The 4th International Small Island Developing States Conference (SIDS4)

A Game-Changer for Social and Economic Development

by H.E. Dr Ambassador Aubrey Webson Permanent Representative to the United Nations

From 27th to 30th May, Antigua & Barbuda will be transformed into a regional conference centre. Here, the future of small islands the world over will be discussed and leaders will meet to strategise across the development divide to shape the destiny of the global small island developing states (SIDS) for the next ten years.

Antigua & Barbuda, with a population of just under 100,000, will become the smallest nation to host such a large international conference. As if hosting this event was not ambitious enough, the nation will host supporting events to lead into the declaration made at SIDS4.

This international conference, which is held every ten years, serves as a platform for small island nations to come together, exchange ideas, and devise strategies to address the unique challenges they face. With a focus on sustainability, resilience, and inclusive growth, the expectation is that SIDS4 will prove to be a transformative initiative for small island nations.

The goal of Antigua & Barbuda is to use SIDS4 as a game-changing project for social and economic development. Through collaboration, sustainable development, resilience-building, and inclusive growth, this forum can empower island nations to overcome their unique challenges and pave the way for a prosperous future. The conference, ‘Charting the Course toward Resilient Prosperity, ' aims to tackle the challenges faced by SIDS worldwide:

• Economic development: The SIDS conference provides an opportunity for Antigua & Barbuda to showcase its economic potential and attract investment. By participating in the discussions and engaging with international stakeholders, the country can also promote a sustainable tourism industry and practices, renewable energy projects and other sectors leading to increased economic growth and job creation.

• Enhancing resilience: As a small island nation, Antigua & Barbuda is highly vulnerable to natural disasters, such as hurricanes and rising sea levels. SIDS4 will play a crucial role in strengthening the country's resilience against these challenges. Through knowledge sharing and collaboration with other SIDS, Antigua & Barbuda will learn best practice in addressing disaster preparedness measures, improve infrastructure, and enhance its capacity to respond effectively to emergencies. The conference will also facilitate the sharing of best practices in climate adaptation and disaster risk reduction, enabling Antigua & Barbuda to build a more resilient society that can withstand future challenges.

• Knowledge sharing and capacity building: Knowledge exchange, capacity building and technical assistance will help participating countries benefit from learning best practices and innovative approaches implemented by other SIDS in sectors such as renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and marine conservation.

• Promoting sustainable development: SIDS4 emphasises the importance of sustainable practices, renewable energy, and conservation efforts. By participating in this global dialogue, Antigua & Barbuda will highlight its commitment to environmental stewardship and share strategies to mitigate the impact of climate change on its economy and society. The conference will provide a platform to advocate for international support and funding for sustainable development projects, enabling Antigua & Barbuda to build a resilient and green future.

• Partnership and collaboration: Bringing together governments, international organisations, and other stakeholders from around the world will enable sharing of information, technology transfer, and capacity building. Such collaboration can enhance Antigua’s economic competitiveness and promote innovation.

• Access to financial resources: The SIDS conference facilitates dialogue on financial support and assistance for all SIDS. Antigua & Barbuda can leverage this platform to secure funding for sustainable development, climate change adaptation measures, and infrastructure development. Access to financial resources can significantly contribute to the country’s economic advancement.

• Empowering inclusive growth: This platform will also highlight the importance of inclusive policies in education, health care and social vulnerabilities to ensure that no one is left behind. Innovative approaches to poverty alleviation, gender equality, and social empowerment will be given attention in the design of the strategic future of the islands.

CONCLUSION:

Antigua & Barbuda recognises the urgent need for sustainable development in the face of climate change and other environmental threats. Acting as a catalyst for collaboration among small island nations, SIDS4 emphasises the value of engaging with other countries facing similar challenges, sharing experiences, and learning from best practices.

By participating in this global dialogue, Antigua & Barbuda will highlight its commitment to environmental stewardship and share strategies to mitigate the impact of climate change on its economy and society.

This collaboration has led to one of the major planned outcomes of the conference - the Centre of Excellence. The Centre will work towards global solutions for SIDS and the sharing of resources, enabling the island nations to overcome obstacles and drive progress.

Last but not least, the conference will provide a platform to advocate for international support and funding for sustainable development projects, enabling Antigua & Barbuda to build a resilient and green future.

So, as Antigua & Barbuda finds itself in the spotlight and we welcome people from across the globe to this most important of conferences, we hope that all will enjoy the country’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique attractions.