In a poignant new documentary titled “YUMI – The Whole World,” crafted by German filmmaker Felix Golenko and produced across seven nations, the voices of Pacific youth emerge as pivotal players in the global climate justice movement. The film chronicles the inspiring journey of law students from the University of the South Pacific (USP), who catalyzed a movement that successfully brought the issue of climate change before the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
At a recent screening in Suva hosted by the German Embassy, producer Mark Szilagyi shared that the film began as a student assignment in 2019 at the USP campus in Vanuatu. Students proposed tackling climate change through a human rights lens, culminating in a campaign that garnered unanimous support from the UN General Assembly, which has sought an advisory opinion from the ICJ regarding the legal responsibilities of nations in addressing climate change.
The documentary’s first part reflects Golenko’s graduation project, capturing the trajectory of this historic initiative and culminating in the UN vote, while the forthcoming second part will document the concluding aspects of their remarkable journey, including the ICJ’s anticipated advisory opinion.
Lilieta Soakai, Project Officer for the campaign, highlighted the grassroots nature of this movement, affirming it was driven not by governments or NGOs, but by concerned Pacific youth fighting for their rights. She poignantly stated, “What’s at stake is not just land or infrastructure, it’s our culture, our identity, our way of life that has existed for thousands of years.” She described the film as “emotional but hopeful,” symbolizing the resilience of youth in the face of climate adversity.
The influence of this campaign extends across the Pacific, integrating perspectives from students and advocates in Fiji, Vanuatu, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and Samoa. The film visually captures the dedication of these activists—from classrooms to the UN—fostering dialogue among world leaders.
Despite facing logistical challenges filming across various nations and securing permissions, Szilagyi expressed respect for the protagonists, noting their empowerment in the editing process. This documentary was made possible by support from German broadcasters and cultural institutions, with screenings in key Pacific locations bringing the narrative full circle.
The advisory opinion from the ICJ, expected imminently, promises to clarify the legal obligations of states in preventing climate change and the potential consequences for inaction. Soakai asserted, “It’s a game-changer,” emphasizing the legal tools this could provide for small nations to hold major polluters accountable.
With “YUMI,” the Pacific youth are not merely awaiting change; they are at the forefront of leading it, highlighting a narrative of hope and action against climate injustice. As this initiative unfolds, it embodies a significant step towards empowering marginalized voices globally and fostering a stronger commitment to legal accountability in addressing climate change.
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