Climate change is increasingly recognized as the most significant security threat to Pacific nations, affecting the livelihoods of their citizens and their economic stability. During the opening session of the two-day US-Pacific investment summit, titled ‘The Pacific Agenda — Investment, Security and Shared Prosperity’, Jeremiah Manele, Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, underscored the multifaceted nature of security in the region.
Manele articulated that security concerns in the Pacific go beyond traditional military issues, encompassing a wide array of challenges including climate security, economic vulnerabilities, and illegal fishing. He highlighted the urgency of addressing illicit drug trafficking, transnational crimes, cyber threats, and the importance of disaster resilience in the context of increasing climate-related challenges.
The Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands addressed the critical impact of rising sea levels and an increase in extreme weather events, which not only undermine developmental achievements but also put immense strain on national budgets. He pointed out that the consequences of such disasters—like a flooded school or a damaged hospital—transcend humanitarian crises and have strategic implications for the region.
Manele emphasized the need for cooperative security arrangements to enhance disaster preparedness and climate response, strengthen maritime security, combat transnational crime, and protect essential infrastructure. “Internal security is crucial for many of us,” he stated, reflecting on the necessity of promoting development and unity. He insisted that these arrangements must bolster regional stability and solidarity, aiming to maintain the Pacific as a zone of peace, in accordance with the Pacific Leaders endorsed Ocean of Peace Declaration.
This call for cohesive and comprehensive security cooperation demonstrates a proactive approach in facing the multidimensional challenges posed by climate change and other pressing issues, fostering a hopeful outlook for enhanced regional resilience and solidarity.