Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are a group of developing countries consisting of small island nations that often face similar sustainable development challenges. These challenges include small but growing populations, limited resources, isolation, susceptibility to natural disasters, vulnerability to external shocks, heavy reliance on international trade, and fragile environments. SIDS are located in three geographical regions: the Caribbean, the Pacific, and the Atlantic, Indian Ocean, and South China Sea (AIS).

Topic 1 - Addressing Biodiversity Loss and Climate Change

For many SIDS, the ocean is their primary source of natural resources and a critical component of their blue economy. Factors like small population size, remoteness from international markets, high transportation costs, vulnerability to exogenous economic shocks and fragile land and marine ecosystems make SIDS among the most vulnerable to biodiversity loss and climate change because they lack economic alternatives. Not only is biodiversity crucial for SIDS because it supports key industries like tourism and fisheries, which can constitute over half of their GDP, biodiversity also provides essential benefits such as food, clean water, reduced erosion, storm protection, and holds aesthetic and spiritual value for many island communities. Climate change also significantly impacts SIDS in other ways, with events like the devastating 2017 hurricane season destroying infrastructure and with sea level rise forcing population relocation. As a result, SIDS are forced to be at the forefront of innovative solutions that address biodiversity loss and climate change and focus on sustainable development. What innovative solutions can countries share with each other? How can SIDS communicate their needs when it comes to sustainable development to the greater United Nations? 

Topic 2 - Digital Transformation

Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are increasingly transforming into Small Island Digital States. Digital advancements are significantly enhancing lives and livelihoods across SIDS by improving the reach and effectiveness of government and public services, creating exciting new opportunities for citizen engagement and empowerment, and fostering the development of new products, sectors, and opportunities. How can SIDS promote the use of digital technologies to support key sectors such as tourism, agriculture, and finance?