Solomon Islands Prime Minister and Forum Chair Jeremiah Manele reaffirmed his country’s commitment to climate action, despite remarks made by U.S. President Donald Trump dismissing climate change. During his speech at the United Nations General Assembly on September 23, 2025, Trump referred to climate change as “the greatest con job in the world,” criticizing global efforts to address the issue and targeting the European Union’s carbon reduction initiatives.
In response to Trump’s comments, Manele emphasized the importance of adhering to the scientific consensus on climate change, stating, “Our people, our communities—especially those on low-lying atolls—have experienced its impacts for years.” He pointed to evident issues in the Solomon Islands, such as coastal erosion and king tides, as real challenges arising from climate change. As a small island nation, Manele expressed the need to collaborate with other Pacific countries to advocate for stronger climate initiatives globally.
The sentiment among Pacific leaders reflects a broader alarm over Trump’s administration’s withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, which many view as a significant setback in global climate action. Acting Prime Minister of Fiji, Professor Biman Prasad, voiced disappointment over these political shifts, calling for accountability from nations, especially major emitters like the United States, stressing the historical obligations they hold toward vulnerable nations impacted by climate change.
During the recent Pacific Islands Ocean Conference in Honiara, the Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change (PISFCC) group underscored the gravity of the situation and campaigned for the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to issue an advisory opinion recognizing states’ legal obligations to address climate threats. This movement is echoed by representatives from other Pacific nations, including Vanuatu’s Climate Change Minister Ralph Regenvanu and Palau’s President Surangel Whipps Jr., who both highlighted the ICJ opinion as a vital tool for holding nations accountable for their climate impact.
PISFCC member Solomon Yeo, who attended the UNGA, stated that Trump’s perspective does not represent the majority of Americans, and he emphasized the need for all nations to adhere to international laws that still apply to the United States, especially regarding support for Pacific island nations in technology and finance.
In light of ongoing environmental challenges, leaders and advocates from the Pacific continue to pursue avenues for collaboration and partnership with other nations to ensure that climate action remains an urgent priority. The ICJ advisory opinion, while non-binding, signals hope for the Pacific region, presenting opportunities to advocate for policies that promote climate justice and accountability among those contributing to global emissions. The coordinated efforts of Pacific island nations illustrate a resolve to combat the existential threat posed by climate change, reinforcing the importance of global solidarity in addressing this critical issue.