During the COP30 conference held in Belém, Brazil, Pacific leaders gathered to express the urgent plight of their communities as they face the increasing challenges posed by climate change. Dr. Pio Manoa, the Deputy Director General of the Forum Fisheries Agency, emphasized the deep connection Pacific Islander communities have with the ocean, stating, “We are here because we want to demonstrate that our people are people of the ocean. We have nothing much—not a lot of land—but a lot of ocean, and you need to know what we are going through.”
Panelist Coral Pasisi, Director of Climate Change and Sustainability at the Pacific Community, reinforced this sentiment, highlighting the ocean’s role as a life-giving force and educational resource for Pacific peoples. Her emotional plea underscored the visible degradation of coral systems and the existential threat faced by low-lying atoll nations such as Kiribati and Tuvalu. “Because we live there every day, we can clearly see what existentiality really looks like,” Pasisi lamented, stressing the need for action for the sake of future generations.
Niue’s Minister for Natural Resources, Mona Ainu’u, who was present at the conference, highlighted the importance of continuously amplifying Pacific voices in global climate discussions. She expressed her frustration at the slow process of accessing climate financing, noting the disparity between pledges and the support received, which often comes only after significant damage has occurred. Ainu’u stated, “If we don’t do anything—if we don’t change the way we live or push countries to raise their ambitions—nothing is going to happen.”
In response to these ongoing challenges, Pacific leaders are taking proactive steps. The Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF), a homegrown initiative with an initial investment of $500 million and backed by 15 countries, aims to increase self-reliance and improve access to climate finance. Finau Soqo, General Manager of the PRF, emphasized the collective decision among Pacific leaders to take control of their destiny, stating they are committed to supporting their communities and being the vehicle for change.
Pasisi also called for a shift in perspective regarding climate finance, stating that it should be recognized as a matter of justice rather than charity. She noted that the Pacific has received only a fraction of the financing pledged by global leaders, despite being on the front lines of climate change and possessing some of the world’s most pristine ecosystems. The sentiment was echoed by Dame Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, who highlighted the necessity of elevating Pacific voices globally.
As the conference unfolded, the message emanating from the Pacific leaders was clear: the ocean is not just a vital resource but a crucial part of their identity, culture, and survival. Their call to action emphasizes the importance of standing united to demand accountability, increased ambition from polluters, and tangible support to safeguard their future. In light of the urgent realities expressed at COP30, there is hope that a unified Pacific response can inspire broader global action aimed at addressing climate change effectively and collaboratively.