The climate crisis and the loss of biodiversity are escalating each year, according to Dr. Sivendra Michael, the permanent secretary for Environment and Climate Change. He made these remarks during the closing of the Indo-Pacific Environmental Security Forum (IPESF 24) held in Natadola last week, labeling this situation as a critical threat to global security, peace, and prosperity.
Dr. Michael pointed out that viewing climate change solely as an environmental issue, separate from security and conflict, is a fundamental misunderstanding. He noted that wars have historically been fought over resources, land, minerals, waterways, and fundamental human needs.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, the Fijian Government has intensified its focus on collaboration across ministries and disciplines. Dr. Michael acknowledged that environmental issues are closely intertwined with public health and developmental challenges, emphasizing that Fiji cannot address these global challenges in isolation.
He highlighted the importance of partnership among the forum participants, stating that collaboration is essential for navigating global crises. The insights gained from the week-long IPESF will play a significant role in addressing the issues that were identified.
Discussions at the forum primarily revolved around topics such as tourism, cultural practices, food and water security, livelihoods, and disaster risk reduction. Dr. Michael emphasized that Fiji’s environment is crucial to the nation’s history, survival, progress, and future, a sentiment that resonates with all small island nations in the Pacific. He further remarked on the vastness and diversity of the Pacific and the nations that inhabit it, noting its unparalleled scale.