United Nations, 20 February 2014 – The International Year of Small Island Developing States celebrated the contributions that this group of countries has made to the world. Small islands are home to vibrant and distinct cultures, and have enriched the world through their music, diversity and heritage. Islanders are also at the forefront of efforts to protect the world’s oceans and their vast biodiversity, and are addressing pressing global issues such as climate change and rising sea levels through ingenuity, innovation and use of traditional knowledge.