The Pacific Islands Forum is taking proactive steps to ensure that it influences the upcoming COP negotiations by forging strategic partnerships and enhancing regional representation. With Australia set to play a crucial role in COP31, the Pacific region is well-positioned to advocate for priorities related to climate, ocean nexus, and energy transitions, with detailed negotiation strategies anticipated by early 2026.
Baron Waqa, the Secretary General of the Forum, expressed appreciation for Australia’s support, even though the Pacific region will not directly host COP31. He stated, “The Forum is actively engaging with Australia to ensure Pacific priorities shape the COP31 agenda.” This collaboration is significant, as the newly appointed Climate Champions will enhance Pacific engagement in climate discussions ahead of next year’s negotiations, emphasizing the importance of early involvement and coordinated advocacy efforts.
A key initiative moving forward is the Pacific Resilience Facility, which has now been signed by all member countries and is entering the ratification phase. This facility is designed to mobilize climate finance to support community-level projects, aiming to provide essential investments that will substantially reduce the vulnerability of Pacific communities to climate change and other hazards. Esala Nayasi, Deputy Secretary General of the PIFS, highlighted the ambitious funding goals, stating that the facility aims to grow from its current financing of $167 million to a targeted $1.5 billion in the medium term. The establishment of the facility in Palau has been finalized by leaders, with operations expected to launch in 2026.
The funding mechanism is set to directly support climate adaptation and disaster resilience initiatives at the grassroots level while tackling the historical challenge of limited access to climate finance for Pacific communities.
To support these efforts, the Secretariat is coordinating various regional strategies to ensure a cohesive approach to economic development and resilience. The implementation of the 2050 Strategy and its associated frameworks is set to accelerate in 2026, focusing on resource and economic development aligned with regional goals. Nayasi noted, “The Pacific Roadmap for Economic Development (2025-2030) integrates with frameworks like the Blue Pacific Strategy to unify efforts,” which underscores the importance of collaborative initiatives.
Additionally, a strategic review aimed at optimizing development partner engagement is underway, in light of global financial constraints. This plan seeks to enhance coordination among the nine regional agencies and avoid duplicating efforts while maximizing resource use. Through an updated 2050 Engagement and Advocacy Plan, targeted initiatives will guide partnerships, ensuring that momentum is maintained despite the challenges posed by declining external funding availability.
Overall, these initiatives reflect a committed approach by the Pacific Islands Forum to bolster regional resilience and advocate effectively for climate priorities on the global stage.
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