Pacific Island leaders, ministers, and disaster officials have gathered in Palau for the Second Pacific Disaster Risk Management (DRM) Ministers Meeting, an essential regional dialogue that focuses on enhancing political leadership and collective action in response to disaster risks and climate change. During the meeting, which highlights the importance of regional preparedness, Palau’s Vice President Raynold B. Oilouch emphasized the urgency of cooperation in dealing with escalating climate threats.
“Palau is honored to host the 2nd Pacific DRM Ministers Meeting at this critical time for our region,” stated Vice President Oilouch, advocating for open dialogues on effective strategies unique to the Pacific context. He underscored the necessity for strengthening disaster preparedness and response capabilities as small island nations face the frontline consequences of climate change.
Outgoing DRM Chair, Napolioni Boseiwaqa from Fiji’s National Disaster Risk Management Office, acknowledged the vital support received from regional and global partners, including the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction. He emphasized an inclusive, community-centered approach to disaster response, integrating perspectives from diverse community sectors—including gender, disability, and youth.
Dr. Paula Vivili, Deputy Director-General for Science and Capability from the Pacific Community (SPC), called for sustained, practical leadership beyond mere funding to implement effective disaster risk management strategies. He stated that addressing the root causes of vulnerability is crucial to strengthening regional resilience.
The Solomon Islands Minister for Environment reiterated the importance of the meeting during a critical juncture for his country, which ranks highly in disaster vulnerability. The ministers also reviewed progress on past initiatives, including the 2022 Nadi Declaration and were set to endorse several key regional initiatives. Among these are the Pacific Humanitarian Response Coordination Mechanism, Pacific Humanitarian Warehousing Programme, and the Early Warning for All initiative.
As the meeting nears its conclusion, participants aim to solidify commitments to enhancing resilience across the Pacific with a Ministerial Declaration that outlines actionable steps toward safeguarding communities in the face of ongoing climate challenges. This meeting embodies a hopeful and collaborative spirit, aiming to foster a resilient future for the Pacific Islands amid increasing global uncertainties.