About Us
Since 1990, AOSIS has represent 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.
H.E. Fatumanava-o-Upolu III Dr Pa’olelei Luteru
Chair of AOSIS: Permanent Representative of Samoa to the United Nations
Ambassador Luteru has been the Permanent Representative of Samoa to the United Nations since 2021. Prior to that he was the Ambassador of Samoa to Europe based in Belgium and bilaterally accredited to ten European states and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), UNESCO, European Commission, and the European Council. Previously, he was Samoa’s Trade Commissioner to New Zealand from 2010 to 2012. He also held several academic positions at the University of the South Pacific including Director of Planning and Development, and from 2005 to 2009 Executive Dean of the Faculty of Islands and Oceans. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy degree (Flinders University, Australia) specializing in Development Economics, Strategic Planning, and Aid Policies.
