Let's Talk Global, Small Island Global

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The United Nations (UN) came to Samoa for the Third International Conference on Small Island Developing States, a four-day talkfest about sustainable development running from Sept. 1 to 4.   World leaders and delegations from 52 island countries were joined by international donors, non-governmental organizations, the private sector and civil society.

Behind the scenes of paradise, many small island states are developing countries striving for economic independence, employment growth, social development, resilience against climate change and disasters and a balance between conservation and exploitation of natural resources.  

Sadly, next year, only two of 14 Pacific Island Forum countries, Cook Islands and Niue, are expected to achieve all the Millennium Development Goals.

Learn more about some of the topics discussed that are impacting real people's lives:  Small islands talk global issues