Doc. 9701

12 February 2003

Need for an integrated policy for the development of islands in Council of Europe member states

Motion for a resolution

presented by Mr Pavlidis and others

This motion has not been discussed in the Assembly and commits only the members who have signed it

1.       Islands, whatever their size, have two main features in common: an economy with fewer sectors of activity when compared to the mainland; and a confined and conscribing geographical size.

2.       The economic structure of islands, including island states, is generally far less diversified than that in mainland areas. Some of the variety in economic activity normally present in mainland areas is fully or partly lacking in many small islands in particular. Whatever activity exists is concentrated on just a few sectors.

3.       The specialised nature of economic activity and the lack of diversity in small island economies also result from their narrower base of human and non-human economic resources and markets. To this should be added a limited domestic markets and higher cost of transport, which together seriously limit the ability of small islands to develop economically.

4.       Other characteristics typical of many islands include remoteness, air and sea transport technologies that are poorly adapted to their needs, and environmental vulnerability – placing further constraints on their economic development.

5.       In conclusion, the Assembly declares that an integrated policy for the economic development of islands in the Council of Europe area in all their diversity needs to be formulated, for the good of the millions of Europeans who live there and have a right to continue doing so.

Signed (see overleaf)

Signed : 1

Pavlidis, Greece, EPP

Aguiar, Portugal, EPP

Akselsen, Norway, SOC

Bargholtz, Sweden, LDR

de Puig, Spain, SOC

Gubert, Italy, EPP

Mauro, Italy, EPP

O'Hara, United Kingdom , SOC

Puche, Spain, EPP

Russell-Johnston, United Kingdom, LDR

1        SOC: Socialist Group