The implementation of internationally agreed development goals in SIDS, in particular the Mauritius Strategy of Implementation (MSI), the Barbados Programme of Action (BPoA), and the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) has been assisted by the Small Island Developing States Network (SIDSNet). Established in 1997 as a direct follow-up to the 1994 Barbados Programme of Action (BPoA), the primary goal of SIDSnet is to support the sustainable development of SIDS through enhanced information and communication technology (ICT).

SIDSNet responds to several critical challenges faced by small islands including (1) remoteness, isolation and geographic dispersion, (2) poor connectivity and data management, particularly through ICT, (3) limited human and technological capacity, and (4) the need for greater international recognition and assistance in reducing SIDS’ economic and environmental vulnerability. SIDSNet has been a valuable tool for linking remote and isolated SIDS, where the technical expertise, education, and knowledge sharing facilitated by the site enhances the possibilities for improving welfare and reducing poverty through innovation, expanded national capacity, and the better use of scarce resources.

SIDSNet was designed to significantly improve SIDS’ use of ICT in support of their sustainable development. Through the website, affiliated countries could maintain contact with each other for the purpose of sharing information on best practices in the priority areas such as health, conservation, education, freshwater and sanitation, tourism, and human resource development. The network also seeks to facilitate the virtual exchange of expertise through the SIDS Technical Assistance Programme (SIDSTAP), which is a roster of experts whose information to be made available through the site. SIDSNet will serve as a clearinghouse for data, information, expertise, UN decisions and resolutions, and current events relevant to island development. SIDSNET has also been proposed for use as the portal to and home for the University Consortium of the Small Island States (UC-SIS), which was endorsed at the 2005 Mauritius International Meeting.

How it works
SIDSnet is not only a medium for communication between SIDS stakeholders in the BPoA and MSI, but also a strong advocate for improving Internet awareness and infrastructure in SIDS. In the area of Capacity Building, it serves as a medium for south-south and SIDS-SIDS sharing of best practices; for technology transfer; and the institution of an accessible network of experts. In the area of Cooperation and Knowledge Sharing, SIDSNet boosts connectivity and communication by registering users for an in-house email system and chat rooms where information can be exchanged and experts contacted. SIDSNet also provides a calendar of upcoming activities and events, allowing governments to best provision limited personnel. SIDSNet also strengthens Research and Data Management by serving as a database for island publications, academic research, UN resolutions and decisions, development indicators, and national and regional statistics; making each easily accessible to all stakeholders. Finally SIDSNet improves the Visibility and Awareness of the central challenges encumbering island development, thereby boosting advocacy for reaching the MDG goals and raising the profile of SIDS in the international policy circles that influence the flow of financial resources and technical assistance. In this regard, the project also has a multiplier effect by increasing SIDS-SIDS and SIDS-South cooperation.

Management
The SIDSNet project was launched in through UNDP's Sustainable Development Networking Programme (SDNP) and the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS). The Water Resources Management and Small Island Developing States Branch of the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) currently administers the project.

Funding
SIDSnet Phase I was successfully completed in December 1999, having built the website and introduced cutting-edge networking tools. The Government of Japan provided funding for SIDSnet Internet workshops in 21 different SIDS. Another 3 workshops were organized for regional trainers and funded in Barbados, Fiji and Mauritius.

Phase II was launched by financial contribution from the Italian, Norwegian and German Governments. Additional funding was provided by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) in early 2002, l'organisation internationale de la Francophonie , and the Government of New Zealand in 2004.