They are at risk both from economic dislocations in the tourists' home countries, and from such environmental shocks as hurricanes or other natural hazards, which can quickly wipe out the progress built up over many years. Conscious of the industry's competitive climate, SIDS have increasingly focused on upgrading the quality of their tourism product - and on emphasizing its uniqueness through niche marketing of ecotourism and nature and cultural tourism. They have also given special attention to improving the management and protection of tourism assets, disposing of wastes and combating land degradation. The Barbados Programme of Action will be reviewed at a Special Session of the General Assembly in September 1999. This will provide a timely opportunity to assess how well it is being implemented and, particularly, identify what can be done to improve things in those priority areas where only limited progress has been made.
Oceans are the life-line of tourism.
So SIDS are very concerned with the sustainable management, use and protection of coastal and ocean resources. The CSD will share national experiences, especially in implementing strategies to integrate environmental and social considerations into the concept of sustainable tourism. This embracing concept of tourism holds much promise. But implementing it effectively will largely depend on whether tourist bodies in SIDS have the organizational capacity to make these partnerships work. Building this capacity may well be one of the most fruitful areas for international assistance.