Islands are coming under increasing environmental and social pressure, particularly under the impact of tourism. In many ways, the small scale of these islands - almost enclosed systems - provides researchers with ideal cases in which to observe process and test theory. The Development Process in Small Island States focuses on the political security, tourism, gender issues, ecosystems, landscapes and economies of island communities. It encompasses islands at very different stages in the development process, identifying valuable common lessons and providing insights into the development issues particular to islands. With case studies drawn from the Caribbean, the Mediterranean and the Pacific, the book describes the position of islands as ecologically and economically vulnerable places.