Papers from the Global Conference on Sustainable Development for Small Island Developing States, 26 April - 6 May 1994, Bridgetown, Barbados, West Indies

Abstract

As an island country irself, located in The Pacific and Indian Oceans. Australia has recognized not only the vulnerabilities of small islands, but the critical importance of ensuring their economic wellbeing for the overall security of the region. We need to think scout islands in strategic terms. We also need to take a long term view, recognising that careful planning can help us avoid problems in the future. The international community is too much engaged with crisis management. Even while coping with crises we must all give more attention to preventive actions and to addressing causes - rather than effects.