28 November 2012: On 28 November 2012, the UN General Assembly's (UNGA) Second Committee approved draft resolutions on “Follow-up to and implementation of the Mauritius Strategy for the Further Implementation of the Programme of Action for the Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States” (A/C.2/67/L.40 ) and on the “International Year of Small Island Developing States" (A/C.2/67/L.42).
The first text reaffirms States' commitment to addressing the vulnerability of small island developing States (SIDS), through the implementation of the Barbados Programme of Action (BPOA) and the Mauritius Strategy for Implementation (MSI), while deciding to convene the third International Conference on SIDS in 2014, hosted by the Government of Samoa. According to the draft, the Conference should seek renewed political and financial commitments to SIDS, and it will identify their priorities for sustainable development, partnerships, and the post-2015 development agenda.
In 2013, regional preparatory meetings for the Conference will take place in each of the three SIDS regions, along with an interregional preparatory meeting to develop inputs to the Conference. The draft invites the UNGA President to convene the first meeting of the preparatory committee in early 2014. The modalities and format of the Conference will be discussed during the UNGA's 68th session, and the contributions of all relevant stakeholders, international donors, and civil society in the preparations are welcomed.
The second text approved by the Committee would declare 2014 to be the International Year of SIDS. States would invite the Secretary-General and relevant UN agencies to facilitate the implementation of this Year. Costs of all implementation activities will be met with voluntary contributions, and a report of the Secretary-General on the evaluation and financial details of the Year is requested during UNGA 70. Member States and stakeholders are encouraged to promote action at all levels of government in 2014 to address the sustainable development of SIDS. [Publications: Draft Resolution A/C.2/67/L.40] [Publication: Draft Resolution A/C.2/67/L.42] [Meeting Summary]
