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UN SIDS Conference: The Power and Importance of NGO Engagement
Last Updated on August 28, 2024
Last week, the UN Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Conference took place in Antigua, a significant event held every 10 years to gather leaders from the Caribbean, Pacific, Atlantic, Indian Ocean, and South China Sea Islands. The theme for this year’s conference was “Charting the Course Toward Resilient Prosperity,” focusing on exploring sustainable development for SIDS. This conference serves as a crucial platform for discussing common issues and formulating development strategies tailored to the unique challenges faced by small island nations.
Members of the St Kitts and Nevis NCD Alliance attended this conference including, Abi Begho and Dr Josephine Claxton-Richardson representing Lake Health and Wellbeing, Mr. Anthony Mills from the St Kitts Nevis Association of Persons with Disabilities and Dr. Glenville Liburd, the founder of the Nevis CBR Advocates and Nevis Renal Society. This participation underscores the importance of NGOs in these high-level international meetings, highlighting their role in shaping policies and advocating for sustainable development.
The Importance of NGO Participation in High-Level Meetings
- Amplifying Voices and Issues
NGOs serve as the voice of the communities they represent. Attending high-level meetings like the UN SIDS4 Conference provides NGOs with a platform to amplify concerns that may otherwise be overlooked. For instance, at this conference, our representatives were able to bring attention to critical issues such as non-communicable diseases (NCDs), disabilities, and gender equality, ensuring these topics are included in global discussions and action plans.
- Influencing Policy and Decisions
Being present at such conferences allows NGOs to directly influence policy decisions. Through oral and written submissions, NGOs can advocate for specific actions and reforms. This year, members from the SKN NCD Alliance provided feedback on several crucial matters, such as the need for inclusive health solutions in gender equality strategies, the need for government action on NCDs and a more inclusive society for persons living with disabilities.
- Networking and Collaboration
High-level meetings offer unparalleled networking opportunities. NGOs can connect with international organizations, governments, and other stakeholders, fostering collaborations that amplify their impact. For example, during the SIDS4 Conference, we connected with NGOs from across SIDS and together we collaborated to ensure that the voice of civil society was heard by the UN.
- Learning and Sharing Best Practices
Such events are rich with knowledge sharing. NGOs can learn from the experiences and best practices of others, which can be adapted and implemented in their own contexts. Sessions on topics like sports as a driver for sustainable development, gender-responsive climate funding, and strategies to tackle NCDs provided valuable insights that our members can now bring back to St Kitts and Nevis.
- Holding Governments Accountable
NGOs play a critical role in holding governments accountable for their commitments. By being involved in the creation and implementation of documents like the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS), NGOs can ensure that their governments follow through on international pledges. The SIDS4 CSO Action Plan and Roadmap, which we contributed to, will be instrumental in this process.
Conclusion
The UN SIDS4 Conference was a remarkable experience, filled with enlightening discussions, networking opportunities, and the formulation of impactful strategies for sustainable development. For NGOs , participation in such high-level meetings is crucial. It ensures that the voices of the communities we serve are heard, influences policy at the highest levels, and leads to collaborations that can drive meaningful change. We look forward to localising the SIDS CSO Action Plan and Roadmap and making a real impact in St Kitts and Nevis.