Harnessing the power of science for the sustainable development of Small Island Developing States

Much progress has been made in the 20 years since the Barbados summit, however many gaps still remain and new challenges must be met – Climate Change is threatening island livelihoods, resources, cultures and societies, and even the very existence of low-lying island countries. UNESCO is deeply committed to assisting SIDS in strengthening their own scientific capacity in order to meet these challenges.

Through its expertise in key scientific fields including freshwater management, biodiversity, local and indigenous knowledge, climate change, coastal management and science policy, UNESCO will provide a constructive and distinctive contribution to the 3rd International Conference on Small Island Developing States. This contribution is explained by Wendy Watson Wright, Assistant Director General and Executive Secretary of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission and Assistant Director-General for the Natural Sciences Sector ad interim.

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