In a significant development for climate resilience efforts in the Pacific region, the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF) officially launched its PRF Capitalisation Memorandum at a roundtable event held at the United Nations Headquarters on September 23. This milestone was part of the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ broader engagement during the United Nations General Assembly’s 80th Session.
The launch signaled the opening of a global pledging window until December 2026, inviting international contributions to strengthen community resilience against the risks posed by climate change and natural disasters. The Forum Chair and Prime Minister of Solomon Islands, Jeremiah Manele, emphasized the PRF as an innovative, self-financing solution addressing the scarcity of public resources, urging global partners to invest in this sustainable initiative.
The signing of the Agreement establishing the PRF was highlighted at the recent Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, underscoring the region’s leadership in tackling climate challenges. Notable pledges made at the event include contributions of EUR3 million from Ireland, EUR1 million from Portugal, and EUR5 million from Germany, bringing the total to date to US$166 million.
UN Under Secretary-General Rabab Fatima stressed the urgency of the PRF, noting its critical role in delivering resources to the most vulnerable Pacific communities before crises escalate. High-level attendance from global partners such as Ireland, Germany, Portugal, Norway, Japan, and the United Kingdom reflects the international commitment to this game-changing initiative.
Dr. ‘Aisake Valu Eke, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Tonga, expressed optimism, highlighting the lifelong benefits this initiative will bring to the Pacific communities and environment. President of Nauru, David Adeang, showcased further support by depositing their ratification instrument, reinforcing solid regional backing for the PRF.
The PRF aims to raise an initial US$500 million, and the Pacific leaders are set on demonstrating global leadership and solidarity in their climate endeavors. The Prime Minister of Tuvalu, Feleti Teo, closed the event with a powerful call for decisive action, framing the PRF as a beacon of hope for international cooperation and sustainable climate resilience in the Pacific.