Guadeloupe in murky waters: French islands hit by wastewater treatment scandal
Located in the heart of the French Caribbean, Guadeloupe is best known for its beaches, rivers and waterfalls. But beyond the postcard image, more than 70 percent of wastewater treatment plants in the island are out of order – or nearly -despite significant funding, particularly from the European Union. The result is a health and environmental catastrophe that threatens all the bathing waters in this French overseas archipelago.
Maldives ultimatum on troops deepens row with India
Bilateral ties between the Maldives and India – that have hit rock-bottom in recent weeks – have taken another tumble after Male formally asked Delhi to withdraw its troops from the island nation by 15 March.
New Zealand’s Māori king has called a rare nationwide meeting
Māori leaders and others are expected to attend a rare national meeting due to concerns about the new government’s policies on indigenous rights. An estimated 3,000 Māori leaders, tribal representatives and a number of politicians are expected to meet this week, after the Kiingitanga – the Māori king movement – called for a rare national meeting amid simmering tensions over the new National-led government’s direction for Māori.
The Fourth International Conference on SIDS (SIDS4) in May will bring world leaders together to agree on a bold new programme of action for SIDS. This new ten-year plan will focus on practical and impactful solutions to keep SIDS afloat and give their citizens a sustainable and safe future.
This week, the First Preparatory Committee Meeting for the SIDS4 Conference is being held at the United Nations and stakeholders have been contributing their views. The Maldives and New Zealand are co-Chairs of the Bureau of the Preparatory Committee.
FREE virtual event: The Island Finance Forum is back this year from the 6th to 8th of March. The 3-day event is the premier global event for sustainable finance and investment for islands. The Forum gathers cross sector experts from around the world to discuss the current challenges and opportunities of mobilising financing for inclusive and sustainable development. Register today!
Global Sustainable Islands Summit in May!
In-person event: Co-hosted with the Government of Prince Edward Island, Canada, the Global Sustainable Islands Summit will bring together professionals, researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss and explore innovative solutions and advancements in sustainable energy. Prepare to immerse yourself in this landmark event for the global island community in 2024!