As the world turns its attention to Brazil for COP30, Pacific civil society organizations are simultaneously gathering in Sydney for a focused three-week engagement concerning human rights and climate change. This event is organized by the Diplomacy Training Program (DTP) in collaboration with the Pacific Islands Association of Non-Government Organisations (PIANGO). It takes place in anticipation of the proposed Pacific COP31, which Australia aims to host in 2026 alongside its Pacific neighbors.
DTP Executive Director Patrick Earle opened the program, underscoring the significance of the event’s timing as negotiations continue on global climate commitments at COP30. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that Pacific voices are heard and influential in shaping outcomes at COP31. Earle expressed hope that this next COP could be genuinely Pacific-led and centered on regional needs.
During the discussion, Earle highlighted the growing mobilization around COP31, particularly regarding Australia’s continuing fossil fuel extraction activities, which raises questions about the country’s suitability as host. Nonetheless, he noted that a Pacific COP in Australia could provide opportunities for advocacy and establish meaningful partnerships while highlighting the moral authority of Pacific peoples confronting climate change impacts.
Representing PIANGO, Melaia Kubuabola reiterated the importance of this partnership and the need for building the skills and networks necessary for Pacific civil society to influence policy at all levels. Kubuabola stated that the collaboration with DTP is about creating movements, rather than solely capacity building, and asserted that Pacific voices must play a critical role in global climate decisions as their communities face severe climate threats.
The program, funded by Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade through the Australia Awards Fellowship, is bringing together 15 participants from seven Pacific nations. Over the following weeks, these participants are expected to enhance their advocacy skills, connect with Australian institutions, and ensure that the Pacific’s perspective remains central to the upcoming climate summit, COP31.
This regional engagement is crucial as the Pacific Islands Forum has recently expressed strong support for Australia’s bid to co-host COP31, framing it as a “Pacific COP.” The ministers within the Forum have emphasized that climate change poses the greatest threat to the livelihoods and security of Pacific peoples and that the region must have its concerns and voices prioritized in international decision-making.
The collaborative efforts surrounding COP31 reflect a hopeful momentum toward a Pacific-led approach to tackling climate action. As discussions progress, the expectation is that the engagement will lead to meaningful outcomes that align with the urgent needs of Pacific communities, which are already experiencing the consequences of climate change. The combination of advocacy, skill-building, and networking could thus drive significant regional influence in shaping global climate policy.