The Solomon Islands, at the forefront of climate change discussions, is advocating for a revolutionary approach to climate finance during the ongoing 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, Brazil. In a statement made by Thaddeus Siota, Director of the Climate Change Division, the nation voiced a collective call from Pacific Island countries for climate finance systems that are “owned, managed, and led by the Pacific.”
Siota highlighted the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF) as a transformative solution, emphasizing its capacity to transition from reliance on external aid to a self-sustaining funding model championed by Pacific nations. “The PRF represents a shift from dependency to ownership, from charity to investment,” he stated, reflecting a vision where climate financing truly addresses the unique needs and governance structures of Pacific communities.
Focusing on local empowerment, the PRF aims to ensure that funding reaches community levels directly, circumventing traditional multilateral financial systems that often complicate access to necessary resources. Siota described this initiative as a “game-changer” for enhancing community resilience against climate challenges brought upon by rising sea levels, natural disasters, and disrupted food systems.
The facility has already garnered pledges amounting to US$167 million, with an ambitious goal set to raise a total of US$500 million by 2026. An operational timeline anticipates the first call for project proposals in late 2025 or early 2026 and plans for a three-year pilot phase commencing in 2027, which signifies a proactive step toward addressing the climate finance gap isolating Pacific nations.
As a testament to regional collaboration, the Solomon Islands delegation asserted that the PRF embodies a steadfast commitment to securing a climate-resilient future for the Pacific Islands through innovative solutions and solidarity. Siota urged external partners to fully capitalize the PRF, as support will be pivotal in preparing for COP31, where further climate dialogues will continue. His closing remarks, “Iumi tugeda — we leave no one behind,” reflect the collective determination of Pacific leaders to safeguard their communities and environments.
The PRF, which represents the first international financial institution owned and managed by Pacific governments, aims to navigate the complex landscape of climate financing that has historically underserved the region. Its establishment and growing support underscore a hopeful narrative for the Pacific as it champions resilience and self-reliance, striving to tackle the urgent climate crisis with localized, community-driven initiatives. The ongoing support and commitment from both regional leaders and international partners signify a robust framework to combat climate challenges effectively, with an optimistic outlook for the Pacific’s environmental future.