By Pita Ligaiula in Manila, Philippines
Mona Ainuu, Niue’s Minister of Natural Resources and advocate for Pacific political climate issues, issued a compelling plea during the WCPFC22 Tuna Commission meeting. She stressed the urgent need for the Commission to take climate science seriously, starting with the implementation of the long-awaited South Pacific albacore management procedure (SPA MP).
Ainuu expressed Niue’s strong advocacy for adopting the SPA MP, emphasizing its critical importance for her nation. She shared her stark observations about the tangible impacts of climate change facing island communities, such as rising sea levels, warming oceans, and increasingly severe storms. Her message highlighted the urgency of addressing these issues, stating, “Climate change is not a distant warning; it is our lived reality.”
Furthermore, she lamented the disappointing results from COP30 in Brazil, where weak climate outcomes left many small island states disillusioned, particularly in contrast to the expectations set by the International Court of Justice regarding the global climate crisis. Ole Ainuu expressed her hope for the fisheries sector to do better, articulating her belief that positive, science-based measures could be developed to secure sustainable fishing practices.
Ainuu called upon WCPFC members to prioritize the health of the planet over vested interests, stating that the Pacific region, being responsible for supplying 60 percent of the world’s tuna, holds a significant responsibility. She expressed readiness for negotiations but demanded clear and actionable management measures to protect ocean resources.
During her address, Ainuu also referenced the International Court of Justice’s recent climate advisory opinion, urging members to fulfill their legal and moral obligations to protect the oceans and ensure the safety and resilience of local communities.
Criticizing the influence of fossil fuel lobbyists in global climate negotiations, Ainuu emphasized that those most affected by climate change should be integral in shaping solutions. As she delivered the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) statement, she highlighted concerning trends such as rising sea temperatures and marine heatwaves.
The FFA recognized the critical need for climate change vulnerability assessments but pointed out that implementation requires substantial new resources. Ainuu advocated for integrating climate considerations into existing Commission processes rather than creating separate efforts, underscoring the importance of incorporating climate risk into fisheries decision-making for the future of the Pacific.
Ainuu’s passionate remarks reflect a growing momentum among Pacific leaders advocating for climate action and sustainable practices in fisheries management, demonstrating a commitment to protecting vital ocean resources for generations to come.
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