Maldives is to be the next Chair of the Alliance of Small Island Developing States (AOSIS). AOSIS is a coalition of Small Island and low-lying coastal countries that share similar development challenges and concerns about the environment, especially their vulnerability to the adverse effects of global climate change. It functions primarily as an ad hoc lobby and negotiating voice for Small Island developing States (SIDS) within the United Nations system. AOSIS compose of 44 member countries which represents 26% of the developing countries.
Chairmanship was awarded to Maldives by consensus among the 44 member countries. This is due to the excellent leadership and quality shown by Maldives in various platforms on addressing the issues on climate change and sustainable development.
Maldives has always demonstrated a lead role in combating climate change and sustainable development. We have always carried the interest of the small island countries and advocated on behalf of them. Maldives has played a key role in the very initial process of formulation of the AOSIS and was privileged to be the host country to spearhead the very first meeting.
Maldives was among the first countries to ratify the Kyoto Protocol and has played a crucial role in establishing the Ad-hoc working group on Durban Platform (ADP) in 2011 which was formed to lead the negotiations into a new climate agreement to be established in 2015 in Paris.
One of the most importance will be given to address the issues of climate change and sustainabledevelopmentinto this new agreement and carry on with the post 2020 development agenda. With this new leadership, Maldives will also work to further strengthen the character and status of AOSIS as the norm entrepreneur and bridge builder.
Maldives to be the next Chair of the Alliance of Small Island States
