About Us
Since 1990, AOSIS has represented the interests of the 39 small island and low-lying coastal developing states in international climate change, sustainable development negotiations and processes. As a voice for the vulnerable, its mandate is more than amplifying marginalized voices as it also advocates for these countries’ interests. In terms of size, AOSIS closely resembles the countries it represents on the global stage, but often punches far above its weight, negotiating historic global commitments to cut greenhouse gas emissions, among other achievements.
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Chair of AOSIS
DR. WALTON WEBSON
CHAIR OF AOSIS: Permanent Representative of Antigua & Barbuda to the United Nations
Ambassador Webson has been Permanent Representative since 2014. In 2017, he was Chair of UNICEF. Until his appointment, Mr. Webson had a long career with Perkins International, serving as its Director since 2011. Prior to that, he was the organization’s Director of Institutional Development and Coordinator of Education Programs for Africa and the Caribbean. Mr. Webson holds a doctorate in management from Case Western Reserve University in Ohio, United States. He earned his Master of Science in management of non-profit organizations and his Bachelor of Science from the New School for Social Research, New York, United States.
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Sustainable Development
As SIDS have been globally recognized as a special case for sustainable development, AOSIS has been striving to ensure that the specific challenges they face are addressed, particularly through the implementation of the SIDS Accelerated Modalities of Action (SAMOA) Pathway.
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Ocean Conservation
Historically, SIDS have been stewards of large expanses of ocean, and in this regard recognize the significance of the conservation and sustainable use of the ocean. AOSIS was a strong proponent of the UN Oceans Conference in 2017 and continues this role in the lead up to the UN Ocean Conference in 2020.
AOSIS will continue to seek international cooperation and partners to maintain its capacity and build new capacity to address new challenges in these key areas and others as we help SIDS and other vulnerable states amplify their voices and make lasting environmental, socio-economic and geopolitical impact.
