Solomon Islands Prime Minister and Forum Chair Jeremiah Manele reaffirmed his nation’s dedication to climate action in the wake of U.S. President Donald Trump’s remarks dismissing the urgency of climate change. During his address to the United Nations General Assembly on September 23, 2025, Trump referred to climate change as “the greatest con job in the world” and criticized global efforts, particularly targeting the European Union’s carbon reduction strategies.
Manele countered Trump’s comments by underscoring the serious ramifications of climate change already felt by communities in the Solomon Islands. He stated, “Our people, our communities—especially those on low-lying atolls—have experienced its impacts for years,” citing issues such as coastal erosion and rising king tides as significant threats to the island nation’s way of life. As a small island nation, Manele highlighted the necessity of uniting with other Pacific countries to advocate for more robust climate initiatives on the world stage.
The concern among Pacific leaders mirrors a broader alarm regarding Trump’s administration’s decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement, which many believe represents a considerable setback for global climate efforts. Fiji’s Acting Prime Minister, Professor Biman Prasad, expressed disappointment with these political developments and called for accountability from major emitting countries like the United States, emphasizing their historical responsibilities toward vulnerable nations affected by climate change.
At the recent Pacific Islands Ocean Conference in Honiara, the Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change (PISFCC) group drew attention to the critical situation, campaigning for the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to provide an advisory opinion that recognizes states’ legal duties to confront climate threats. This sentiment is echoed by leaders from other Pacific nations, including Vanuatu’s Climate Change Minister Ralph Regenvanu and Palau’s President Surangel Whipps Jr., both of whom view the ICJ opinion as an important mechanism for holding nations accountable for their environmental impact.
PISFCC member Solomon Yeo, present at the UNGA, asserted that Trump’s views do not reflect the majority opinion among Americans. He stressed the importance of all nations adhering to international laws, especially in providing support to Pacific island nations regarding technology and financial assistance for combating climate change.
As environmental challenges continue to escalate, Pacific leaders and advocates remain committed to pursuing collaborative efforts with other countries to ensure climate action is prioritized. The proposed ICJ advisory opinion, though non-binding, offers a beacon of hope for the Pacific region, fostering opportunities to pursue policies that demand climate justice and accountability from countries contributing to global emissions. The united front of Pacific island nations highlights their determination to tackle the existential threat posed by climate change, reinforcing the critical need for global solidarity in addressing this urgent issue.