Small Islands – Priorities, Challenges and Opportunities

The Geneva School of Diplomacy welcomed Usha Dwarka-Canabady for a discussion on the geopolitical, environmental, and diplomatic realities facing Small Island Developing States in an increasingly complex international landscape.

Small Island Developing States face a distinct set of interconnected challenges, from climate vulnerability and environmental risk to economic resilience, international representation, and geopolitical pressure.

As part of the Geneva School of Diplomacy’s Emerging Issues & Persistent Challenges series, the Geneva School of Diplomacy hosted Usha Dwarka-Canabady for a timely discussion exploring the priorities, challenges, and opportunities facing small island states in today’s international system.

Drawing on her diplomatic and foreign affairs experience, the discussion examined how Small Island Developing States navigate climate pressures, economic constraints, global governance structures, and international diplomacy while advancing their national and regional priorities.

The session offered students, faculty, and attendees valuable insight into the strategic realities facing smaller states and their role within contemporary international affairs.

About the Speaker

Usha Dwarka-Canabady — Former Ambassador of Mauritius; Former Secretary for Foreign Affairs

Former Government of Mauritius

Usha Dwarka-Canabady is the former Ambassador of Mauritius and former Secretary for Foreign Affairs, with extensive experience in diplomacy, international relations, and foreign policy leadership.

Her career has focused on multilateral diplomacy, international cooperation, and representing the interests of Small Island Developing States within global diplomatic frameworks.

Her experience offers unique insight into the strategic challenges and opportunities facing smaller states in the international system.