Pacific leaders have reinforced the pressing climate demands of the region at the Post-COP29 Debrief of the Pacific Political Climate Champions. Political leaders and climate advocates convened to review the outcomes from COP29 and strategize for the upcoming COP30 negotiations.
Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad, stressed the importance of Pacific nations maintaining a strong stance in international climate discussions, especially as preparations ramp up for the next climate conference in Brazil. He asserted, “The science is clear, and our people are living through the worst of the crisis. The Pacific cannot afford to be ignored any longer.”
Prasad highlighted the necessity for robust political leadership and regional unity, urging that negotiations must prioritize loss and damage funding, saying, “We are not asking for favours. We are demanding justice. Climate change is not our doing, but we are paying the highest price.” This sentiment was echoed by Baron Waqa, former President of Nauru and current Pacific Islands Forum Chair, who called for decisive actions from major polluters, stating, “The world’s biggest emitters have a moral obligation to deliver on their commitments. Empty promises will not save our islands.”
During discussions, Waqa emphasized the importance of Pacific nations controlling their climate narrative, indicating that they are not merely victims but leaders in climate resilience. He noted the effectiveness of integrating traditional knowledge with modern solutions for their survival.
The three-day meeting also underscored the region’s expectations for COP30, particularly regarding increased climate financing and ambitious global emissions reduction targets. Prasad remarked that while progress has been observed, it remains insufficient: “We cannot keep talking about the same issues year after year while our communities suffer. We need urgent implementation, not just pledges.” Civil society groups present at the session reinforced the call for governments to exert sustained pressure on developed nations.
Waqa reinforced that the Pacific’s greatest strength lies in collective advocacy, declaring, “We are small in size but powerful when we speak with one voice. Our unity is our greatest weapon in these negotiations.”
As the world gears up for COP30, set for November 10-21, 2025, in Belém, Brazil, there remains hope that the ongoing advocacy and unity of Pacific leaders can catalyze significant global action against climate change, protecting the vulnerable communities in the region.
In summary, the urgent calls for action from Pacific leaders underscore the necessity for collaborative efforts in addressing climate change, reflecting a hopeful outlook for a stronger, united response on the global stage.
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