Development strategies under examination

07 September 2017, 12:00AM

The Secretary General of the Commonwealth, Patricia Scotland QC, will release a report on a study, which examines whether current development strategies set the Pacific islands region on the right track.

The report on ‘A Sustainable Future for Small States: Pacific 2050’ is to be released by the Commonwealth today at 48th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders meeting at Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s Hotel.

Secretary General Scotland has been in the country since Sunday. 

Yesterday, she met with the Head of State, His Highness Tuimaleali’ifano Va’aletoa Sualauvi II, following a meeting with Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi the day before. 

Today, she is expected to address Forum participants during one of the panel sessions where she will discuss the report.

 “The Pacific 2050 report promotes innovative approaches to ocean governance,” said Patricia Scotland QC.

The study examines whether current development strategies set the Pacific islands region on the right track.

While some Commonwealth small states might achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, the report notes that others will miss their S.D.G's even by 2050.

The Pacific 2050 report calls for improvements in key areas.

These include strengthening political will, addressing data challenges, strengthening governance at all levels; establishing effective partnerships; securing sustainable finance; enhancing capacity development, and accounting for population dynamics.

While in Apia, the Commonwealth Secretariat is also promoting a A Blue Charter to guide oceans development, as part of a wider effort to promote sustainability.

 “The Blue Charter is based on principles in the Charter of the Commonwealth,” said Ms. Scotland.

It has particular relevance for small island states, whose main territorial assets are the oceans and their exclusive economic zones.

The charter will promote responsible and sustainable use of the oceans.

This will be actioned through principles agreed upon by governments; toolkits for managers, and information sharing hubs.

The charter is one of several Commonwealth initiatives being promoted by the Secretary General at the Forum this week.

07 September 2017, 12:00AM
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