“Pacific Leaders Unite for Youth Wellbeing: A Call to Action”

Desna Solofa, the Acting Secretary-General of the Pacific Islands Forum, delivered a powerful address on Wednesday during the Pacific Child Wellbeing Summit, stressing the urgent necessity to prioritize the wellbeing of the region’s youth amid unprecedented challenges.

In her speech, Solofa highlighted the unique pressures facing children today, including the impact of the digital era, climate change, mental health issues, and violence. She proclaimed, “Pacific children now face new opportunities and challenges,” and urged for a comprehensive strategy to safeguard their education, health, and safety.

Referencing the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, Solofa reiterated the commitment of Pacific leaders to a long-term vision that emphasizes securing a brighter future for children. She called for sustained investments in youth, asserting, “We must invest in their future by providing them with the opportunities, support, and safe environment they need to reach their full potential.”

The summit brought together various ministers and officials dedicated to collaborating for a more prosperous future in the Pacific. Solofa echoed discussions on the urgent need to combat violence and child neglect, reinforcing that the region’s future is intrinsically linked to its children. The collaborative efforts seen throughout the summit provide a hopeful signal of collective dedication to nurturing safer and healthier childhoods.

Stakeholders also recognized recent initiatives, such as Fiji’s National Early Childhood Development Policy for 2024-2028, focused on enhancing child welfare and education throughout the region. Such initiatives exemplify a unified approach to tackling the challenges affecting the youngest generation in the Pacific.

This emphasis on child welfare illustrates a shared commitment across the Pacific to cultivate a healthier and more engaging environment for children, ultimately playing a crucial role in fostering a brighter future for the entire region. This concerted effort is promising, indicating a collaborative spirit that could lead to profound changes for the Pacific’s future generations.