The office has several roles for its client group. For the Programme of Action for the Least Developed Countries, it helps to ensure implementation of the program and supports the UN Economic and Social Council in assessing progress.
It supports follow-up of the Almaty Declaration and Programme of Action for Transit Transport Cooperation between Landlocked and Transit Developing Countries, and the UN Programme of Action for the Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States.
It carries out relevant advocacy and seeks international support for its client group with the UN and society generally and it supports consultation within its client group.[2]
For SIDS the office supports them in intergovernmental processes, advocates for their special consideration and resource mobilization as well as coordinates the support provided by the UN and the international community for sustainable development in SIDS. The SAMOA Pathway is a central policy document for sustainable development in SIDS and the work of OHRLLS.
Chowdhury, Anwarul K; Erdenebileg, Sandagdorj (2006). Geography against development: a case for landlocked developing countries. New York: UN-OHRLLS. ISBN978-9211045406.