Pacific leaders have reiterated the region’s urgent climate demands at the Post-COP29 Debrief of Pacific Political Climate Champions, warning that their voices must not be sidelined.
This week’s session brought together political leaders and climate advocates to reflect on key outcomes from COP29 and strategise for this year’s COP30 negotiations.
Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad, emphasised that Pacific nations must stand firm in global climate talks, especially as they prepare for the next climate conference in Brazil.
“The science is clear, and our people are living through the worst of the crisis. The Pacific cannot afford to be ignored any longer,” he said.
Professor Prasad highlighted the need for strong political leadership and unity across the region, stressing that negotiations must prioritise loss and damage funding.
“We are not asking for favours. We are demanding justice. Climate change is not our doing, but we are paying the highest price,” Prasad reminded delegates.
Nauru’s former President and current Pacific Islands Forum Chair, Baron Waqa, echoed this sentiment, calling for more aggressive action from major polluters.
“The world’s biggest emitters have a moral obligation to deliver on their commitments. Empty promises will not save our islands,” he said.
Waqa stressed that Pacific nations must take control of their own climate narrative rather than relying on external forces.
“We are not just victims; we are leaders in climate resilience. Our traditional knowledge, combined with modern solutions, is key to our survival,” he stated.
The three day meeting also focused on the region’s expectations for COP30, particularly around increasing climate finance and pushing for a more ambitious global emissions reduction target.
Prasad pointed out that while progress has been made, it is nowhere near enough.
“We cannot keep talking about the same issues year after year while our communities suffer. We need urgent implementation, not just pledges,” he said.
Pacific civil society groups present at the session reinforced the need for governments to maintain pressure on developed nations.
Waqa agreed, saying that the Pacific’s strength lies in collective advocacy.
“We are small in size but powerful when we speak with one voice. Our unity is our greatest weapon in these negotiations,” he said.
COP30 will take place from 10-21 November 2025 in Belém, Brazil.
