Small Island Developing States (SIDS)
Small Island Developing States (SIDS) comprise 40 countries and territories – 39 FAO Members and one Associate Member – situated across the Caribbean, the Pacific, and the Atlantic, Indian Ocean, and South China Sea regions. SIDS are culturally and ecologically diverse, possess vast ocean spaces rich in natural resources, and play a pivotal role in safeguarding marine and terrestrial biodiversity essential for local livelihoods and global sustainability.
Biodiversity lies at the heart of life in SIDS. Tourism and fisheries alone can account for more than half of their GDP, while ecosystems provide essential services that sustain communities: food security, clean water, coastal protection, fertile soil, and resilience against storms. Beyond their economic value, these natural resources hold deep cultural, aesthetic, and spiritual meaning, shaping traditions and ways of life for generations. Healthy ecosystems not only drive prosperity but also shield SIDS from mounting challenges, reducing the costs of erratic weather conditions and natural disasters. Agrifood systems in SIDS are deeply intertwined with biodiversity, local economies, and cultural heritage. Strengthening these systems is essential not only for food security and nutrition, but also for reducing import dependence, enhancing climate resilience, and supporting livelihoods.
FAO's support to SIDS
FAO supports Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in transforming their agrifood systems by providing targeted technical assistance, policy guidance, and improved access to finance. Our work focuses on strengthening resilience, enhancing food security, and advancing sustainable development in the face of climate change. Key initiatives include the Hand in Hand Initiatives, SIDS Solutions Platform for knowledge exchange and innovation, support for National Adaptation Plans (NAPs), efforts to reduce reliance on hazardous chemicals, improved disaster risk management, and the promotion of climate‑smart innovation across agriculture, fisheries, and forestry.
Insights from SIDS
Isabel, a symbol of João Varela women’s resilience
For those arriving today in João Varela, in the municipality of Ribeira Grande de Santiago, it is difficult to imagine that the green vegetable plots were once arid, rocky and hopeless ground.
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Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ Hot Pepper value chain spiced up with FAO Climate-Smart Training
From March 16 to 25, a series of intensive training sessions on hot pepper production took place across the Windward and Leeward regions.
Stories of change
Building Resilient Rural Livelihoods in Jamaica
20/07/2026
Since 2023, the Improving Rural Livelihoods Through Resilient Agrifood Systems project has been transforming lives in Kitson Town, St. Catherine, Jamaica.