Press Release

Virtual Exchange Platform Held to Support Implementation of Caribbean Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) Process

30 July 2020

The third session of the Caribbean Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) support Virtual Exchange Platform was held today, to discuss how Caribbean countries can integrate Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within NDCs.

This virtual exchange addressed the interlinkages with other SDGs and Climate Change and how they can be implemented within the NDC process. NDCs are at the heart of the Paris Agreement and embody efforts by each country to reduce national emissions while adapting to the impacts of climate change.

Delivering the opening remarks, UN Resident Coordinator, Didier Trebucq expressed the hope that the virtual exchange “will contribute to a better understanding and more effective synergy between climate actions and sustainable development in the new COVID-19 context”.

He further highlighted the need to build back better, greener and more resilient societies to avoid lasting setbacks in the area of Climate Change.

The panel of experts present at the exchange, that included representatives from IOM-UN Migration, World Resources Institution, UNDP, UNICEF, OECS, WHO-PAHO and AOSIS, were involved in the preparation of new/updated NDCs and supported countries in the process.

In the preparatory stage of the virtual exchange, these expert agencies shared pre-recorded videos, aimed to enhance the understanding and identify how these linkages are to be addressed within the NDC process.

During each virtual exchange, a country shares its experience on the incorporation of sustainable development with consideration of Gender, Children & Youth, Education and Health topics in NDC. At this session, St. Lucia shared its progress and expounded on the status of its NDC update and the challenges being faced.

Carol A. Gaskin

RCO

Programme Communications and Advocacy Officer

carol-ann.gaskin@un.org +1 (246) 467 6110

Carol Gaskin is a seasoned international development professional and strategic communicator, serving as the United Nations Development Coordination Officer for Programme Communications and Advocacy. With a background in journalism and creative writing, Carol brings a diverse skill set to her role.

In her capacity, she leads communication and advocacy efforts for the UN Resident Coordinator's Office, overseeing operations in 10 Eastern Caribbean countries. Additionally, she chairs the UN Communications Group, fostering collaboration among communicators from 18 agencies.

Carol's expertise lies in developing communication strategies aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals and the 2030 Agenda. She excels in storytelling, utilizing various channels to amplify the UN's message effectively.

Her achievements include coordinating impactful events such as the "UN in the City" SDG exhibition and spearheading initiatives like the introduction of the Caribbean's first SDG-branded electric bus. Notably, Carol has received recognition for her outstanding work, including the Best Annual Results Report for Latin America and the Caribbean in 2023.

Her work extends to humanitarian efforts, notably providing coverage during natural disasters like the La Soufriere eruption.

With a proven track record of success and dedication to advancing global priorities, Carol A. Gaskin is a respected figure in the field of international development and strategic communication.