The climate crisis and loss of biodiversity are escalating each year, according to Dr. Sivendra Michael, the permanent secretary for Environment and Climate Change. During the closing remarks at the Indo-Pacific Environmental Security Forum (IPESF 24) held in Natadola last week, Dr. Michael described these issues as a grave threat to global security, peace, and prosperity.
He argued that viewing climate change solely as an environmental challenge, separated from the realms of security and conflict, is a misguided perspective. Dr. Michael pointed out that historically, wars have been fought over essential resources such as land, minerals, and water, highlighting the critical link between environmental issues and security.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, the Fijian Government is prioritizing collaboration across various ministries and disciplines. Dr. Michael acknowledged that environmental challenges are intertwined with public health and broader developmental issues, emphasizing that Fiji cannot tackle these problems alone.
He highlighted the necessity of cooperation and genuine partnerships among forum participants as the most effective way to navigate global crises. The insights gained from discussions during the week-long forum, which focused on tourism, cultural practices, food and water security, livelihoods, and disaster risk reduction, will be instrumental in addressing identified challenges.
Dr. Michael underscored the significance of Fiji’s environment as a cornerstone of the nation’s history, survival, and future, a sentiment that resonates across all small island nations in the Pacific. He noted the remarkable size, diversity, and scale of the Pacific region and its member nations.