In 2002, the United Nations General Assembly called for a comprehensive review of the Barbados Programme of Action (BPoA). Adopted in 1994, the BPoA sets forth specific actions and measures at the national, regional, and international levels in support of the sustainable development of the small island developing States (SIDS).

In August/September 2004, an International Meeting is scheduled to take place in Mauritius to discuss recommendations for further implementation of the BPoA. Regional preparatory meetings held in 2003 for the International Meeting highlighted actions taken and the challenges faced in the implementation of BPoA. The Inter-regional Preparatory Meeting in Nassau aims to produce a consolidated position of SIDS from all regions, which will be further considered at a 3-day preparatory session for the International Meeting held during the 12th session of the UN Commission on Sustainable Development in April 2004. 

Please return to this site on Monday, 26 January for full coverage by the Earth Negotiations Bulletin of the Inter-regional Preparatory Meeting, including photos and RealAudio.

Click here to see the provisional agenda of the meeting