The National University of Samoa proudly hosted the book launch for “Sustaining Development in the Islands” as part of the exciting side events for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) taking place in Samoa this week. The Honourable Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Afioga Toelesulusulu Cedric Schuster, and Chair of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), delivered the keynote address, setting the stage for the critical discourse to follow.
“This publication addresses the distinct hurdles encountered by Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and emphasized the necessity for a reformed global governance framework that supports sustainable development.”
“In Samoa, we are immensely proud of our island nation and our commitments to its protection and advocacy.” He also recognized the indispensable role of innovative policy research and evidence-based approaches championed by the Resilient and Sustainable Islands (RESI) initiative, which has collaborated closely with AOSIS over the past two years.
Hon. Toelesulusulu stated that “this publication is essential for addressing the challenges faced by SIDS, especially in terms of sustainable development and climate change.”
The book, compiled by the Resilient and Sustainable Islands (RESI) initiative based at the ODI in London, presents a research synthesis and policy recommendations for SIDS. Hon. Schuster commended RESI for its dedicated support over the past two years, highlighting that their comprehensive research shines a spotlight on the challenges of growing debt and the impacts of an indifferent global financial system—pathologies that are exacerbated by climate change.
Highlighting the key takeaways from the book, Hon. Toelesulusulu articulated the need to reassess how development assistance is allocated, improve debt relief mechanisms, enhance climate financing, and reform international financial institutions to better reflect SIDS’ priorities. He pointed out that the foundational work provided by RESI serves as a crucial bridge connecting the experiences and needs of SIDS, with implications for larger states, too.
He concluded, “A better world for SIDS is likely to result in a better world for all. If the international system supports even its smallest members, affording them peace and prosperity, it benefits us all. I congratulate the authors from RESI on this significant achievement that not only enriches the intellectual discourse surrounding SIDS but also offers practical recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders globally.”
Launch Date: 22 October 2024
For more information, please contact:
Leilani Smith, Marketing and Communications Officer, NUS, Samoa | Tel. +685: 20072 ext. 283
E: [email protected] | www.nus.edu.ws
Professor Jack Corbett, Vice President of Academic Board, Head of School, School of Social Sciences
Monash University, Clayton Campus, VIC 3800 Australia
T: +61 476 784 267, E: [email protected] | monash.edu
