The Pacific Islands Forum is actively working to enhance its influence in upcoming COP negotiations through strategic partnerships and regional representation. With Australia playing a pivotal role in hosting COP31, the Forum sees this as an opportunity to advocate for critical climate and ocean priorities, expecting detailed negotiation plans to emerge by early 2026.
Baron Waqa, the Forum’s Secretary General, expressed appreciation for Australia’s support, even though the Pacific Islands will not directly host COP31. Waqa stated, “The Forum is actively engaging with Australia to ensure Pacific priorities shape the COP31 agenda.” The introduction of Climate Champions, effective since COP30, is anticipated to boost Pacific involvement in forthcoming climate discussions. Waqa emphasized that the region’s success hinges on early engagement in negotiations and coherent advocacy efforts.
To further support climate initiatives, the Pacific Resilience Facility has been endorsed by all Forum countries and is now moving into the ratification phase. This initiative, designed by the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS) and supported by Pacific leaders, aims to mobilize climate financing for grassroots community projects. According to Esala Nayasi, PIFS Deputy Secretary General, the facility seeks to expand its current funding from USD 167 million to USD 1.5 billion in the medium term. The operational launch is set for 2026, with Palau chosen as the establishment site. This funding mechanism is crucial for advancing climate adaptation and disaster resilience at the community level, which addresses the persistent challenge of limited financial access for Pacific communities.
In terms of strategy alignment, the Secretariat is integrating various regional approaches to promote economic development and resilience. The implementation of the 2050 Strategy and associated frameworks is set to accelerate in 2026, emphasizing resource and economic development in line with regional goals. Nayasi noted that the Pacific Roadmap for Economic Development (2025-2030) is designed to complement frameworks like the Blue Pacific Strategy, thereby unifying initiatives.
Efforts to improve partnership coordination are underway to optimize interaction with development partners amid global financial challenges. Leaders have commissioned a strategic review to better understand investment flows and enhance collaboration across nine regional agencies. An updated 2050 Engagement and Advocacy Plan will outline how to engage partners effectively, avoiding duplication and ensuring the efficient use of resources, while maintaining momentum despite the decrease in external funding.
This collaborative approach reflects a hopeful commitment among Pacific nations to address the pressing challenges of climate change and foster sustainable economic development while strengthening regional resilience.
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