The climate crisis and the loss of biodiversity are escalating every year, according to Dr. Sivendra Michael, the permanent secretary for Environment and Climate Change. Addressing the conclusion of the Indo-Pacific Environmental Security Forum (IPESF 24) in Natadola last week, Dr. Michael highlighted that this poses a significant threat to global security, peace, and prosperity.
He criticized the notion that climate change is only an environmental concern that can be separated from security and conflict issues. Dr. Michael stated that conflicts have historically arisen over resources, land, minerals, water, and access to essential human needs and security.
Under Prime Minister Mr. Sitiveni Rabuka’s leadership, the Fijian Government has prioritized collaboration across various ministries and disciplines, recognizing that environmental issues are intertwined with public health and broader development challenges. He emphasized that Fiji cannot single-handedly alter the course of its future.
Dr. Michael underscored the importance of partnerships with participants at IPESF, asserting that collaboration is crucial for overcoming global crises. He noted that the discussions throughout the forum primarily revolved around tourism, cultural practices, food security, water security, livelihoods, and disaster risk reduction.
He remarked that Fiji’s environment is central to its history, survival, progress, and future, a reality shared by all small island nations in the Pacific. He emphasized the vastness, diversity, and scale of the Pacific and its surrounding nations.