Barbados calls for global recognition of small islands after Hurricane Melissa devastation

The aftermath of Category 5 Hurricane Melissa has reignited urgent calls from Barbados for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to be formally acknowledged as a vulnerable group within international climate agreements. Environment Minister Adrian Forde emphasized the dire financial challenges Caribbean nations face during disasters, describing them as ‘political contortionists’ forced to reallocate resources to address immediate crises.