The Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change group (PISFCC) has been awarded the prestigious Right Livelihood Award for 2025, recognizing their significant contributions to climate advocacy. This group will share the award with Julian Aguon, a Chamoru lawyer and writer known for his environmental activism.
This accolade highlights the efforts of PISFCC, which began with a handful of law students from the University of the South Pacific in Vanuatu. The group’s campaign has successfully elevated the climate crisis to the forefront of international law, notably leading to a groundbreaking advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ). In July, the ICJ affirmed that states possess binding obligations to prevent climate harm and protect human rights, marking a monumental step in the global fight against climate change.
PISFCC’s director, Vishal Prasad, dedicated the award to the Pacific region, emphasizing the importance of youth activism and community leadership in the ongoing climate struggle. Prasad expressed pride in the recognition, believing it exemplifies the determination of young people and vulnerable communities standing up for climate justice. The award was announced at a ceremony held in Stockholm, Sweden, where various activists were honored for their contributions to pressing global issues.
In conjunction with this achievement, previous discussions surrounding the ICJ’s advisory opinion have revealed its potential to reshape climate accountability. This ruling clarifies that governments have a responsibility to safeguard against environmental harm, thus providing vulnerable nations—especially those in the Pacific—tools to demand reparations from those contributing to climate change. The recognition of each state’s duty to protect a healthy environment resonates deeply with Pacific Islanders facing dire effects of climate disasters, including rising sea levels and devastating storms.
The PISFCC’s pathway to recognition is not just about individual triumphs but reflects a larger tide of hope and resilience in the quest for environmental justice. This momentum suggests that the voices of Pacific youth, alongside global coalition-building, are beginning to resonate within international legal frameworks. This could pave the way for more effective climate policies that not only inspire justice but also foster a collaborative global response to one of humanity’s greatest challenges. The intersection of youth-led advocacy and international law has indeed set a hopeful stage for sustainable futures for all impacted communities.