Civil society has emphasized the necessity for inclusive platforms that allow communities to share their experiences and challenges regarding climate mobility in policymaking. Emeline Siale Ilolahia, the Director of the Pacific Islands Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (PIANGO), highlighted the critical need to bridge the gap between high-level policies and the realities faced by communities dealing with climate-induced mobility.
During a workshop held in Nadi, Ilolahia stated that ongoing opportunities for dialogue, learning, and strategic input from civil society and faith-based organizations alongside governments and donors are essential. She noted that while mobility is not a new phenomenon in the Pacific, the existing migration practices of communities should play a guiding role in shaping future policy frameworks. The aim is to foster safe and accessible movement for Pacific people, addressing potential barriers proactively.
Traditional migration patterns, deeply rooted in family and community ties, have historically supported movement in the Pacific. However, climate change disrupts these established patterns, prompting urgent discussions on how to maintain cultural continuity and support migrants effectively.
Ilolahia also pointed out that civil society challenges oversimplified categorizations of mobility that fail to capture the complexity of Pacific experiences. She called for greater transparency around potential hidden agendas in policymaking, advocating for honest discussions that reflect the actualities faced by communities and encourage broader engagement.
There is a pressing need for coherence in policies across various sectors, such as education and livelihoods. Civil society is pushing for integrated approaches that facilitate migrants’ adaptation and citizenship opportunities in their host countries. Ilolahia raised important questions about how Pacific individuals can access education and livelihood opportunities abroad, citing programs like New Zealand’s Pacific Access Category as examples requiring scrutiny.
The importance of holistic approaches cannot be overstated, as they are vital for helping migrants thrive and positively contribute to their new communities. This call to action reflects a hopeful vision for the future, where policies are shaped by community input and recognize the unique challenges posed by climate change on migration in the Pacific region.
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