THE Pacific region has taken a leading role in shaping global climate mobility and human security policies.
And the region’s central role in international climate diplomacy is highlighted through its influence on the Paris Agreement and Sendai Framework.
“The region has consistently framed climate change as a direct human issue, not just environmental; this approach has shaped multilateral discussions on disaster displacement and loss and damage,” said Andie Fong-Toy, Head of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) Sub-regional Office.
“The Pacific Regional Framework on Climate Mobility embodies this perspective, focusing on dignity, rights, and resilience, and the Framework’s Implementation Plan spans 2025 to 2030, setting a clear timeline for action.”
Collaborative pathways behind the Framework’s success emphasise partnership and trust among diverse stakeholders and the Joint Working Group, which involves governments, regional bodies, UN agencies, technical and community partners.
“This cooperation reflects the Pacific’s tradition of collective problem-solving and dialogue; the group’s work between 2022 and 2026 has influenced both regional policies and global climate mobility thinking, with Co-Chairs from Tuvalu and Fiji, supported by New Zealand, provided key leadership and commitment.”
Recognition of key partner organisations that supported the Framework’s development and launch includes ESCAP, Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS), IOM, ILO, OHCHR, and Platform on Disaster Displacement (PDD), and additional event supporters are ADB, IDMC, and GIZ, expanding the network of collaboration.
Toy noted these partnerships are critical to sustaining momentum and practical impact as the Framework transitions into implementation, and new collaborations are actively sought to address evolving climate mobility challenges and opportunities.
Next Phase
The focus now shifts to implementing the Framework and expanding cooperative networks for sustained impact, with a commitment to sustaining and growing partnerships, ensuring the Framework’s ongoing relevance and effectiveness.
Fong-Toy said Existing partnerships will be maintained while seeking new institutions to advance the work; this approach responds to the dynamic nature of climate mobility challenges in the region.
“The collaboration model serves as a foundation to translate policy into action on the ground, with regional exchange acts as both a reflection and a catalyst for renewed energy and innovation in this phase,’’ she said.
“The strategic importance of evolving networks for practical regional impact must adapt to emerging climate mobility trends and stakeholder needs.
“Broadening cooperation increases resources, expertise, and influence for implementing the Framework, and these networks will help embed the Framework’s principles of dignity and rights into concrete programs.”