Pacific nations are poised to play a vital role in the ongoing 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Belém, Brazil, demonstrating a strong commitment to achieving the critical 1.5-degree Celsius limit established by the Paris Agreement. This commitment was highlighted during an initial coordination meeting of the Pacific Small Island States (PSIDS), where leaders stressed the need for a united front in advocating for their vulnerable populations.
Pepetua Latasi, Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Climate Change, and Environment of Tuvalu, encapsulated this resolve, asserting, “The Pacific comes ready, they are here to engage and advocate for the survival of our communities.” She underscored the essential nature of unity as Pacific nations face the existential threats posed by climate change.
Under the facilitation of the Government of Tuvalu, these coordination sessions are vital for Pacific negotiators, enabling them to review thematic priorities as the conference progresses until November 21, 2025. Latasi remarked, “The coordination to bring the one Pacific voice together is crucial in this space,” acknowledging the unique challenges Pacific nations must navigate due to the impacts of climate change.
As original signatories of the Paris Agreement in 2015, Pacific countries committed to limiting the global temperature increase to well below 2°C, with aspirations towards 1.5°C. Unfortunately, progress has been inadequate, making renewed efforts at COP30 essential to achieving this target.
A primary goal at this conference is to establish clear indicators for measuring progress toward the Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA) set forth in the Paris Agreement. Ongoing debates around these indicators will see experts presenting viable options for decision-makers to consider.
The conference will also address Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. Many countries, especially significant greenhouse gas emitters, have struggled to meet their timelines for updating these contributions.
The negotiations at COP30 are expected to be intense, amplified by the introduction of nine additional agenda items that focus on pivotal issues deemed necessary for discussion by various delegations. Latasi anticipates demanding days ahead, fully acknowledging the importance of this work for future generations.
The collaboration between the Pacific Delegation Office and the New Zealand Government, managed by the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), is instrumental in amplifying the collective voice of Pacific nations in global discussions. Positive developments are emerging from the coordination meetings, as delegations arrive ready to engage in constructive dialogue.
In the face of daunting challenges, Pacific leaders remain hopeful that their advocacy can spur a substantial global response to climate change. As COP30 progresses, expectations are high for the Pacific Islands to put forth a clear and powerful message, championing resilience and adaptation essential for the survival of their communities in an increasingly warming world.