Third International Conference on Small Island Developing States adopts its outcome document the “S.A.M.O.A. Pathway”

The Third International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS), held in Apia, Samoa, 1-4 September 2014, adopted its outcome document on “Small Island Developing States Accelerated Modalities of Action” (S.A.M.O.A. Pathway). 

While there is an emphasis on environmental and climate change issues, the S.A.M.O.A. Pathway also recalls the SIDS commitments to the outcomes of all major UN Conference including the Programme of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development, the key actions for the further implementation of the Programme of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. (para 3)

The outcome document, moreover, has a strong human rights base. It reaffirms “respect for all human rights” and gender equality and women empowerment (para 7) and “the importance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, as well as other international instruments relating to human rights and international law” It also emphasizes the responsibilities of all States to “respect, protect and promote human rights and fundamental freedoms for all, without distinction of any kind as to race, colour, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth, disability or other status.”  (para 8)

Given the importance of supporting small SIDS to build resilient societies and economies, there should be social protection and the creation of decent work for all and emphasis on increasing investment in education and training. “Migrants and diaspora communities and organizations also play an important role in enhancing development in their communities of origin…” Unemployment, particularly among youth, women and persons with disabilities should also be addressed. (para 23)

Under health, the S.A.M.O.A. Pathway addresses both communicable and non-communicable diseases. It also calls on SIDS to develop and implement comprehensive policies and strategies for the prevention and management of diseases, including through “strengthening health systems for the achievement of universal coverage of health services and distribution of medical and drug supplies.” While it includes UNFPA in those from whom assistance should be requested and refers to HIV prevention, treatment, care and support and the reduction of maternal, newborn and child mortality, there is no specific reference to sexual and reproductive health. (paras 72-75a-g)

Under gender equality and women’s empowerment, there are calls for the elimination of all forms of discrimination and ending of violence against women. (para 77 a& d) In addition, the S.A.M.O.A. Pathway says that they support efforts of SIDS “To ensure in small island developing States the promotion and protection of the human rights of all women and their sexual and reproductive health and rights in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development, the Beijing Platform for Action and the outcome documents of their review conferences.” (para 77g) Although this language has a stronger emphasis on human rights and does not include language on “universal access”, it is consistent with the language in para 5.6 of the Open Working Group outcome document and the Agreed Conclusions of the 57^th Session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women. 

While there are specific calls for the full and equal access to quality education at all levels there is no reference to comprehensive sexuality education.

For full S.A.M.O.A. Pathway see here.