Pacific climate advocates are urging Australia, a significant regional player, to fulfill their expectations as the nation prepares to host COP31. This week, activists have gathered in Tonga for the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting.
In a statement from 350.org, Tuvalu’s Minister for Climate Change, Environment and Home Affairs, Maina Talia, emphasized that the key to the Pacific’s survival and prosperity lies in mitigation efforts. Joseph Sikulu, the Pacific managing director for 350.org, mirrored these sentiments, highlighting the importance of authentic climate leadership from the Albanese Government.
“As an Australian and a Tongan, it’s vital for me to see Australia taking genuine climate action—not just for the Pacific or Tonga, but for all of us in the Pacific who have historically supported his government and the Labor Party,” said Mr. Sikulu. He noted that while Australia has committed $100 million to the Pacific Resilience Facility, the ongoing approval of new fossil fuel projects complicates recovery efforts in the region and exacerbates the climate crisis.
Calls have also been made for COP31 to be recognized not only as an Australian conference but also as one with Pacific significance. Rufino Varea, regional director of the Pacific Islands Climate Action Network, acknowledged Australia’s intention to portray itself as a climate leader while co-hosting COP with the Pacific. However, he stressed that effective leadership must translate into tangible action.
“Australia has increased gas production rather than aligning its practices with the urgent needs of the Pacific, which does not represent the leadership we require,” Mr. Varea remarked. He urged Australia to align its domestic and international climate policies with Pacific goals and push for a Fossil Fuel Free Pacific.
Mr. Varea called for Australia to undertake ambitious climate actions, ensure that effective climate funding reaches Pacific Island countries, and make substantial contributions to the Loss and Damage Fund. He cautioned that failing to take these measures could lead to a COP that acknowledges its shortcomings, highlighting missed targets and the ongoing exploitation of Pacific communities for the benefit of others.