“Pacific Leaders Sound Alarm on Climate Crisis at COP 29”

At COP 29 held in Baku, Azerbaijan, Baron Waqa, the Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, emphasized the critical threat that climate change poses to the Pacific Island nations. He stated that rising sea levels in the Pacific are not just an environmental issue but endanger the very lives, cultures, and traditions of these communities.

In his passionate address, Waqa asserted the importance of the 1.5-degree Celsius target set forth in the Paris Agreement, which he views as vital for the survival of Pacific islands. He stressed the need for significant and timely climate financing to safeguard these small island developing states and expressed hope that the New Collective Quantified Goal would simplify the funding process to accommodate their unique needs.

The Secretary General also introduced the Pacific Resilience Facility, which aims to improve access to climate finance, announcing its expected operational date in 2026. He acknowledged the nations and organizations that have pledged support for this initiative, describing their contributions as vital lifelines for the future of the Pacific Islands.

Waqa underscored that while financial assistance is crucial, genuine solutions also require addressing the underlying causes of climate change. He highlighted the need for a just and equitable transition from fossil fuels to prevent placing undue burdens on local communities.

Looking to the future, Waqa expressed enthusiasm about the prospect of co-hosting COP31 in Australia, which he believes will spotlight the urgent challenges climate change poses to Pacific communities and present an opportunity to enhance global awareness and action.

This message from Waqa encapsulates a sense of urgency but also hope—by rallying support and fostering international collaboration, there is a path toward a sustainable future not only for the Pacific Islands but for the planet as a whole.

Overall, the conference serves as a platform for pivotal discussions and actions that will shape the response to climate change, with Pacific Nations at the forefront of advocacy for both their needs and broader global challenges.