April 13, 2025 – UNITAR 74th Session
Minister of State Gustav Aitaro of the Republic of Palau joined a distinguished panel of international experts at the UNITAR & Experts Round Table on Saturday, offering valuable insight into the role of small island states in global diplomacy.
Held during the 74th session of the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), the round table brought together diplomats, scholars, and future leaders from around the world to explore pathways into international diplomacy. Minister Aitaro appeared alongside Mike McBride, advisor at ECOSOC; Michelle Cervantes of UNHCR; and Catherine Lune-Grayson, a UNEP expert. Together, the panelists shared their experiences and offered practical guidance for those aspiring to careers in multilateral institutions.
Minister Aitaro underscored the importance of representation and active participation for small island nations within the UN system. “You have to stand up for someone who also stands up for you,” he said, emphasizing solidarity and strategic engagement in global forums. He encouraged delegates to pursue fellowships, strengthen their credentials, and most importantly, build lasting personal and professional connections.
In a moment that resonated deeply with the audience, Aitaro reflected on the cultural dynamics of political leadership in Palau, particularly the influence of women behind the scenes. “It’s like flying a kite. Who holds the string? A woman,” he said, drawing attention to the power of traditional structures and the often-unseen drivers of leadership in island societies.
The discussion also touched on broader themes such as gender equity, environmental governance, and the need for consensus in multilateral decision-making. While other panelists offered perspectives from larger institutions, Minister Aitaro’s contributions added a critical dimension by grounding diplomacy in the lived experiences and priorities of small island developing states.
The event concluded with a shared commitment to ethical and inclusive diplomacy, where voices of all nations—large and small—shape the global agenda. Minister Aitaro’s message was clear: small states not only belong at the table, they bring essential perspectives shaped by resilience, culture, and a deep understanding of community.
Source: UNITAR & Experts Round Table: Navigating the Path to Diplomacy, April 13, 2025