Climate change : the issue of vulnerability in small island states' initiatives and responses

Abstract

Climate change presents itself as one of the most challenging environmental issues which needs to be addressed by the world community. The issue of climate change has become increasingly important, finding its way at the top of every political agenda. The international community is realising that a cohesive effort needs to be made in order to tackle this phenomenon effectively. It is understood that climate change discussions are highly influenced and swayed by the different countries' interests and positions. Small island states are definitely amongst the most vulnerable countries vis-a-vis climate fluctuations, with some of these states risking their complete existence. Thus, they are on the frontline in advocating their concerns on the international circuit in relation to climate change. Islands face daunting challenges in making their voice heard which is often at odds with much bigger and stronger states. Lacking the political clout in international relations, small island states have to use particular tactics and diplomacies in order to influence and manoeuvre in climate change discussions. This dissertation explores whether the position and initiatives taken on an international level by small island states in the climate change debate is driven by their issue of vulnerability. Undoubtedly, climate change debates constitute a mix of environmental, economic and political concerns. The recent Conference of the Parties held in Copenhagen will be used to illustrate such challenges together with the position and involvement of small island states in climate change negotiations. The issue of climate change under the current international enviromnental governance with regard to small island :states will also be brought into discussion. Lacking natural, economic and human resources small island states need effective response from the international community to address their vulnerability in the face of climate change impacts. On the other hand, the weaknesses of the current environmental regime clearly indicate that there is a need for a reform of the existing international environmental governance. Hence, the dissertation also investigates the small island states' position vis-a-vis reforms for better and effective environmental governance.