Evaluative review on the barriers to development in small island developing states and combative reforms in years 1992, 1994, 2005 and 2024

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Small Island Developing States have seen many barriers to development due to historical occurrences resulting in a delayed state of growth when comparing them with other countries.  The aim of this article is to review four SIDS reports with a focus on various spheres to dissect the progress made between 1992 and 2024. 

Materials and Methods: The reports used consist of the1992 ‘Report of the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development’, 1994 ‘Report of the Global Conference on the Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States’, 2005 ‘Report of the International Meeting to Review the Implementation of the Programme of Action for the Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States’ and the 2024 “Draft outcome document of the Fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States”. 

Results: Steady development is being made and objectives have shifted accordingly over time, however, many of the mentioned barriers have remained consistent in blocking development. Domestic, regional and international aid are encouraged but only after they fully understand the gravity of these barriers.

Conclusion and Summary: As the states gained their independence apart from each other, they had also been disconnected from the previous economic, social and environmental management or agreements leaving them to simultaneously navigate both internal and external challenges. The strategic plans produced in the SIDS conferences have taken history into account and it is seen in the acknowledgement of economic, social and environmental aspects which have met with combative strategies and continue to do so.