Dr Joyelle Clarke appointed as member of Bureau for UNEA-7, Denzil Douglas congratulates

Basseterre, St Kitts and Nevis: Minister for Foreign Affairs of St Kitts and Nevis, Dr Denzil Douglas extended congratulations to Dr Joyelle Clarke on being elected as the member of the Bureau of the next United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7).

She is currently acting as the Minister of Sustainable Development, Climate Action, Environment and Constituency Empowerment of St Kitts and Nevis. With her selection, she became the first member of the small-island nations to hold such a prestigious position. 

Her selection for such a significant position outlines, Dr Clarke’s unwavering commitment and dedication towards her work. Her appointment is also a testament to her leadership capabilities in being a voice for change not only for St Kitts and Nevis but on an international platform. 

While extending congratulations to Dr Clarke, Denzil Douglas took to his social media account, wished her and said “Dr Clarke’s appointment is very significant, because she is the only member from a Small Island Developing State (SIDS) to hold a position on the Bureau.”

The UNEA Bureau is responsible for supporting the President in ensuring that the general conduct of business regarding the United Nations Environment Assembly is maintained. Abdullah Bin Ali Amri, Chairman of the Environment Authority of Oman, will chair the UNEA-7.

The responsibilities of the member of UNEA-7 include conducting discussions on several important matters such as agenda setting, sustainable development, biodiversity conservation, addressing controversial issues regarding the global environment, climate change mitigation and many more. 

While expressing her gratitude for being a part of the UNEA-7 Bureau, she shared her feelings and said “It is privilege for her to be serving as a member of UNEA-7 Bureau. The endorsement not only signifies the confidence of her people in the Latin American and Caribbean States grouping but also sheds light on the significance of raising the voices of small island nations in an international environment’s decision-making criteria. “

With her appointment for such a remarkable position, Dr Clarke has promised to ensure that the voices and opinions of the small island countries are respected and being heard on an international platform. 

She has also promised to bring a wealth of experience and a commitment to promote environmental protection and resilience not only in the Caribbean region but all over the world. 

Moreover, Dr Clarke and the other delegations attended the sixth session of UNEA at the UNEP Headquarters, in Nairobi, Kenya. The next UN Environment Assembly is decided to take place from 8th to 12th December 2025.