Dr. Sivendra Michael, the permanent secretary for Environment and Climate Change, highlighted the ongoing and escalating threat posed by the climate crisis and biodiversity loss during the conclusion of the Indo-Pacific Environmental Security Forum (IPESF 24) in Natadola last week. He described these issues as critical threats to global security, peace, and prosperity.
Dr. Michael criticized the notion that climate change is solely an environmental concern, stating that such a view is fundamentally flawed. He pointed out that conflicts throughout history have often been driven by competition for resources, land, water, and other essential needs.
Under Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s leadership, the Fijian Government has prioritized collaboration across various ministries and disciplines. Dr. Michael emphasized that environmental issues are interconnected with public health and broader development challenges, underscoring that Fiji cannot navigate its future challenges in isolation.
During the forum, discussions primarily focused on themes including tourism, cultural practices, food and water security, livelihoods, and disaster risk reduction. Dr. Michael reaffirmed the significance of Fiji’s environment as critical to the nation’s history, survival, and future, a situation that is similarly relevant for all small island nations in the Pacific. He noted that the vastness and diversity of the Pacific region and its nations are unparalleled.