Small Island Developing States (SIDs) like Fiji face significant challenges related to the impacts of climate change, even though they contribute less than 1 percent to global greenhouse gas emissions. This viewpoint was articulated by Viliame Gavoka, the Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, during the 3rd Voice of the Global South Summit, which was livestreamed from the CAAF conference room in Namaka, Nadi last Friday.
The event underscored Fiji’s commitment to addressing the pressing issues facing the Global South. Gavoka expressed appreciation to India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi for organizing the summit and for India’s role in elevating the concerns of the Global South on the international platform.
“The Global South is no longer a passive participant on the world stage,” Gavoka stated. “We are actively reshaping our narrative to mirror our shared aspirations for a fair global order. The summit’s theme—An Empowered Global South for a Sustainable Future—aligns closely with our collective aim of addressing the challenges we encounter today.”
He explained that the term Global South refers to countries often labeled as developing, less developed, or underdeveloped. “Many of these nations are situated in the Southern Hemisphere, primarily in Africa, Asia, and Latin America,” he added.
Gavoka pointed out that India remains a prominent champion for representing the ‘Voice’ of these nations within the Global South. He emphasized the importance of international partnerships and platforms, such as the International Solar Alliance and the Global Biofuel Alliance, in promoting effective energy transitions and sustainable development in these regions.