While progress has been made since the adoption of the BPoA for the SIDS, much more still needs to be done to achieve sustainable development in these countries. For example, many SIDS lack sound water infrastructure and adequate water management and distribution systems. Affordable access to water for all and protecting water quality remain important challenges (UNDESA 2003). The Caribbean SIDS have, for example, called for the establishment of national authorities for administration and management of watershed and land to address such issues as land degradation, soil erosion and desertification.
The BPoA + 10 scheduled for Mauritius in August–September 2004 provides an opportunity for policymakers to redefine priorities and put a revitalized programme into action. All stakeholders have a critical role to play.