Lieutenant Governor Josh Tenorio to Attend UN Small Island Developing States Conference 2024 in Antigua and Barbuda

Lieutenant Governor Josh Tenorio of Guam will participate in the United Nations' 4th International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS4) on May 29, 2024, in Antigua and Barbuda. The event, hosted by the Local2030 Islands Network, will bring together leaders from small island nations to discuss shared challenges and opportunities.

The participation of Lieutenant Governor Josh Tenorio in the UN Small Island Developing States Conference 2024 highlights the importance of addressing the unique challenges faced by small island nations, which are often on the frontlines of climate change impact. This conference has the potential to lead to new commitments and collaborations that can help build resilient and sustainable island communities, contributing to a more sustainable global future.

As a founding member of the Local2030 Islands Network, Guam's participation highlights its commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by small island nations. Tenorio will serve as a moderator for a roundtable discussion during the summit, which will include high-profile participants such as U.S. Department of Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr., and Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne.

The conference aims to promote collaborative discussions on sustainable development and climate action goals among island heads of state and dignitaries. Tenorio will also deliver key remarks during the Global Island Partnership (GLISPA) strategic high-level reception on behalf of GLISPA leader, Governor Lou Leon Guerrero. The event will feature announcements on new commitments toward building resilient and sustainable island communities, including the launch of the 2030 GLISPA Strategy and updates on the Micronesia Challenge 2030 and Caribbean Challenge Initiative.

Guam's participation in the SIDS4 conference is sponsored by the Micronesia Conservation Trust and Micronesia Challenge. The Micronesia Challenge, launched in 2006, has leveraged $82 million for youth-led solutions, placed over 70 new areas under conservation, and led to the development of over 70 management plans or climate change adaptation plans. Dr. Austin Shelton, director of the University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, will join Tenorio in Guam's engagements at SIDS4.

Lieutenant Governor Tenorio emphasized the importance of the conference for island nations: "Islands are on the frontlines of climate change impact. Engaging with fellow island nation and territory leaders at SIDS4 is a valuable opportunity to continue our collective push toward a sustainable global future."

The SIDS4 conference will address critical issues impacting the future of small island developing states, including climate change, financial vulnerability, and sustainable development. The Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS outlines steps to achieve resilient prosperity in partnership with the international community.

Lieutenant Governor Josh Tenorio's participation in the SIDS4 conference highlights Guam's active role in addressing the unique challenges faced by small island nations. The event will provide a platform for collaborative discussions and new commitments aimed at building resilient and sustainable island communities.

Key Takeaways

• Lieutenant Governor Josh Tenorio to attend UN's 4th International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS4) in Antigua and Barbuda.
• The conference aims to address unique challenges faced by small island nations, including climate change and sustainable development.
• Tenorio will moderate a roundtable discussion and deliver key remarks on behalf of GLISPA leader, Governor Lou Leon Guerrero.
• The event will feature announcements on new commitments toward building resilient and sustainable island communities.
• Guam's participation is sponsored by the Micronesia Conservation Trust and Micronesia Challenge.