General Debate Plenary Statement by President Ramkalawan-Fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS 4)
28 May 2024 | Foreign Affairs.
His Excellency Gaston Alphonso Browne, President of the Conference
His Excellency António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations
Excellencies,
Distinguished delegates,
I would like to express the gratitude of the people of Seychelles to the Government and people of Antigua and Barbuda for your warm welcome and for hosting the Fourth Small Island Developing States Conference.
At the outset I would like to present our solidarity and condolences to the President and People of Papua New Guinea following the tragic event yesterday that saw unbearable loss of life.
Today, as we convene, our shared commitment is to confront the distinctive challenges confronting small island nations. Despite three decades of recognition of the special considerations deserved by SIDS, we face a complex web of interlinked issues, from climate change and rising sea levels to environmental degradation, devastating pandemics, geopolitical tensions, economic vulnerability, and sustainable development. The outcomes have spiraled into mounting debt levels and a dearth of capacity to invest in resilience and climate action, making the pursuit of enduring prosperity a daunting and seemingly unending endeavour.
In the face of these formidable challenges, I wish to make 5 points under the theme that unites us ‘“Charting the Course Towards Resilient Prosperity”
- We need to be united as SIDS. We represent the island states of the world, whether we are in the Atlantic, Pacific, Africa or Asia. We have let ourselves down in the past for we have been unable to present a united voice, but rather each region has been defending its turf. For example, at COP28 we failed to present a SIDS agreed position. Can we agree to work together at this summit and stick together as one?
- Island states are unique. We are insular and not attached to any continent by any road network. We all face the same issues and vulnerabilities. When there is war on the continent, we are the first ones to suffer increases in the cost of living. Industrialisation, however good for the planet, affects us as rise in sea level, the climate crisis and related disasters touch us first. Continental pollution ends up on our shores. Storms that originate thousands of miles away from our islands reach our coasts. Therefore, let us stand united in solidarity.
- The climate crisis will destroy all of us. Already, we are being hit by coastal erosion, coral bleaching, rise in sea level, stronger storm surges, destruction of our biodiversity and sea life in general. Tourism forms an important part of our economy and this is closely linked to the beauty of our environment. Speaking with one voice will ensure we protect our economic gains and thus allow us to continue giving our children and people good education, appropriate health services and a good standard of living.
- SIDS have been standing firm for the adoption of the Multi-dimentional Vulnerability Index. The world is taking its time while we suffer. It is unfair. We are labelled by the very ones who are destroying our very existence. There is always an excuse. SIDS must be understood: Our intention is not to beg or rob others, but rather we simply want access to concessionary financing for us to be able to face the future and survive. That is why we believe in an MVI.
- Finally, again I want to call on my fellow SIDS to unite as far as the Loss and Damage Fund is concerned. Let us not start differentiating among ourselves as to who should have access. Whether it be islands that are hit by cyclones or other disasters, all islands are affected with what happen in the oceans through climate change or environment disasters. The Seychelles, for example has not been hit by any cyclones, but our rainy season which should have ended at the end of January is still hitting hard causing flooding, landslides and other disasters. So, can we once again be united so that all our islands and other countries that are affected may have access to that climate fund in order to preserve our very survival without regressing financially.
Our resolve must remain unwavering as we chart a course towards a more resilient, prosperous and sustainable future. We have embraced innovative solutions, nurtured international partnerships, and advocated for environmental conservation. However, tackling these challenges demands collective global action, not least being united.
Excellencies,
In concluding, I stress that Small Island Developing States have consistently played a constructive role in promoting harmony, peace, and environmental stewardship. Success hinges on the collective efforts of governments, the multilateral system, civil society, the private sector and youth, who deserve meaningful involvement in shaping their countries' futures. Collaboration, sharing best practices, and innovation are key to overcoming adversity and creating a brighter future and prosperity for all.
Let us seize this moment to establish fresh collaborations, share best practices, and chart a path towards a more sustainable and prosperous future for small island developing states. Let us draw inspiration from the resilience and resourcefulness of our people. Despite the daunting challenges ahead, I am confident that together, through collaborative efforts and a commitment to innovation, we can overcome adversity and create a brighter future for all.
Thank you.
