Papua New Guinea has voiced its disappointment regarding Australia’s recent decision to withdraw from co-hosting the upcoming UN climate talks, COP31, alongside Pacific island nations. Justin Tkatchenko, the foreign minister of Papua New Guinea, expressed his frustration to Agence France-Presse, stating, “We are all not happy. And disappointed it’s ended up like this,” following Australia’s choice to pass hosting rights to Turkey.
Initially, Australia intended to host COP31 next year, recognizing the urgent climate challenges facing South Pacific nations battling rising sea levels and frequent climate-related disasters. However, the plan unraveled when Turkey did not yield its claim, reflecting Australia’s ongoing struggles with fossil fuel dependency and a perceived lack of decisive climate action.
Under a newly forged agreement, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced Turkey’s appointment as the host for the climate summit, while Australia would still play a pivotal role in leading negotiations among participating nations. Tkatchenko criticized the entire COP summit process, labeling it ineffective and questioning its past achievements. He noted, “It’s just a talk fest and doesn’t hold the big polluters accountable,” revealing growing frustrations among Pacific Island leaders who feel marginalized in these discussions.
Concerns surrounding COP summits have long been rooted in the perceived inadequacy of solutions offered to combat climate change’s severe impacts. Leaders from vulnerable nations have criticized Australia’s approach, suggesting it reflects a lack of commitment to climate justice. Former Tuvalu Prime Minister Bikenibeu Paeniu emphasized, “What a miss but the Pacific will continue its fight no matter what,” urging Pacific nations to reassess their relations with Australia.
Despite the setback, there is a glimmer of hope that Australia will continue to advocate for Pacific island nations as climate challenges persist. The Australian Prime Minister has reiterated the country’s commitment to focusing on the region’s issues, underscoring the urgent and significant threat that climate change poses to the Pacific islands. With the potential for substantial population displacement and rising sea levels anticipated in the coming decades, the resilience of Pacific nations and their determination to advocate on the global stage may pave the way for meaningful advancements in addressing these critical climate issues.