The Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF) has taken a significant step forward in its climate resilience efforts for the Pacific region with the official launch of its PRF Capitalisation Memorandum. This important development was marked by a roundtable event at the United Nations Headquarters on September 23, coinciding with the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.
The launch opened a global pledging window, inviting international contributions until December 2026. These contributions aim to bolster community resilience against the adverse impacts of climate change and natural disasters. Jeremiah Manele, Forum Chair and Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands, described the PRF as an innovative, self-financing strategy designed to address the region’s limited public resources. He urged global partners to support this sustainable initiative.
The recent Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting underscored the region’s proactive stance on climate challenges through the signing of the Agreement establishing the PRF. Ireland, Portugal, and Germany have already made notable pledges, contributing EUR3 million, EUR1 million, and EUR5 million respectively. To date, these pledges have brought the total funding to US$166 million.
UN Under Secretary-General Rabab Fatima highlighted the urgency of the PRF, emphasizing its essential role in providing resources to vulnerable Pacific communities before crises worsen. The high-level participation of global partners, including Ireland, Germany, Portugal, Norway, Japan, and the United Kingdom, underscores the international support for this transformative initiative.
Dr. ‘Aisake Valu Eke, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Tonga, expressed optimism regarding the initiative’s long-term benefits for Pacific communities and the environment. The President of Nauru, David Adeang, further solidified regional support by submitting their ratification instrument.
The PRF’s goal is to raise an initial US$500 million, with Pacific leaders demonstrating leadership and global solidarity in their climate efforts. Prime Minister of Tuvalu, Feleti Teo, concluded the event with a call for decisive action, portraying the PRF as a beacon of hope for international cooperation and sustainable climate resilience in the Pacific.
This historic initiative not only sets a precedent for self-sustaining climate solutions but also represents a unified regional and international effort to safeguard the future of the Pacific against the threats of climate change.