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United Nations Marks the First International Day for Awareness of the Development Needs and Challenges Specific to Landlocked De
New York, 6 August 2026 – The United Nations today commemorates the first International Day for Awareness of the Development Needs and Challenges Specific to Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), dedicated to raising awareness of the unique obstacles faced by the world's 32 landlocked developing countries and mobilizing action to advance their sustainable development.
Home to more than 600 million people, LLDCs continue to confront structural challenges arising from their lack of direct access to the sea, including high transport and trade costs, limited connectivity, and increased vulnerability to external shocks. Despite significant progress in recent decades, these challenges continue to hamper economic transformation and sustainable development.
Programmes of Action for LDCs, LLDCs and SIDS
Serving 92 vulnerable member states.
The United Nations Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States (UN-OHRLLS) supports groups of vulnerable countries in the United Nations system. The 44 Least Developed Countries, 32 Landlocked Developing Countries and 39 Small Island Developing States have their own special challenges.
SIDS Global Business Network Forum 2026 and Island Investment Forum
23-25 August 2026, Maldives
The SIDS Global Business Network Forum (SIDS-GBN) and the newly established Island Investment Forum under the Small Island Developing States Centre of Excellence will bring together governments, businesses, investors, development partners, civil society, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders to advance innovative and inclusive partnerships for sustainable and resilient development in Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
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Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries
5 - 8 August 2025, Awaza, Turkmenistan
4th International Conference on Small Island Developing States
27-30 May 2024, Antigua and Barbuda
Fifth United Nations Conference on the Least Developed Countries
5-9 March 2023, Doha, Qatar
Events
Least Developed
Countries
Least Developed Countries (LDCs) represent the poorest and most vulnerable segment of the international community.
2025 LDC Graduation Guide
Landlocked Developing
Countries
Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) face challenges due to their remoteness, lack of territorial access to the sea and significant distance from world markets.
Small Island
Developing States
Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are remote from world markets and suffer from climate change and fragile natural environments.
