Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka of Fiji has made a passionate plea to world leaders at the 80th United Nations General Assembly, urging immediate and decisive action to combat climate change. Drawing attention to the existential threat that rising sea levels pose to Small Island States, Rabuka called for substantial commitments from major polluting countries, especially the G20, to allocate funding for climate adaptation strategies. He emphasized the need for implementing the loss and damage fund to protect vulnerable nations.
In his address, Rabuka also reflected on Fiji’s notable history of contributing to global peacekeeping over the past 55 years. Fiji holds the distinction of being the largest contributor per capita to United Nations missions. He unveiled the concept of an “Ocean of Peace,” reflecting a vision endorsed by Pacific leaders that values mutual respect for sovereignty and embodies the peaceful and just principles of the Pacific way of life.
The Prime Minister highlighted the grave challenges faced by low-lying countries in the Pacific, including Fiji’s initiatives to house communities potentially displaced by climate change. He discussed domestic advancements such as constitutional reform and the establishment of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission. These efforts aim to bolster national security and address pressing issues like drug abuse and non-communicable diseases.
Rabuka advocated for the fair resolution of global conflicts, emphasizing that enduring peace requires universal respect for dignity. He reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to collaborate internationally to promote peace, prosperity, and human rights in the coming years.
Building on his previous statements, Rabuka continues his strong advocacy for strengthened international commitments to climate action. He underscores the urgency of collaborative efforts, especially from larger nations whose lack of action disproportionately affects smaller, vulnerable states like those in the Pacific. This ongoing effort aligns with earlier appeals from Pacific leaders for a collective response to the intertwined crises of climate change and economic instability that threaten their survival.
Rabuka’s address is consistent with previous discussions at key conferences, where he has persistently spotlighted the geopolitical vulnerabilities facing Pacific nations. He advocates for a regional strategy focused on security and sustainability. His hopeful vision for a unified and cooperative future suggests that through shared responsibility and international partnership, meaningful progress can be made in mitigating climate impacts and ensuring regional security.