Wednesday marked a significant milestone in the Pacific region’s ongoing efforts to address the challenges posed by climate change, as the Pacific Climate Security Assessment Guide is officially released.
This comprehensive guide is an essential component of the implementation of the Boe Declaration Action Plan, providing Pacific countries with invaluable tools to analyse regional climate security trends and develop appropriate responses to mitigate climate-induced security risks at the national level.
The guide has been developed by the Pacific Islands Forum in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), under the UN Peacebuilding Fund funded “Climate Security in the Pacific” project, jointly implemented by UNDP and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). Key technical contributions involved the think tank Adelphi, Council of Regional Organisation of the Pacific (CROP) agencies and members of the Pacific Climate Security Network.
Pacific Leaders have recognised that climate change is the single greatest threat to livelihoods, security and well-being of the Pacific People and the Assessment Guide emerges as a vital contribution to addressing these challenges and facilitating the implementation of the Boe Declaration on Regional Security.
The Pacific Climate Security Assessment Guide identifies five key pathways of climate security in the Pacific, shedding light on climate change’s impacts on various aspects, including: livelihoods and the Blue Economy, Land, food, water and health security, disasters and the erosion of resilience, mobility trends and Maritime boundaries, sovereignty and regional stability.
This guide equips Pacific nations with the knowledge and tools to navigate these critical challenges effectively, fostering resilience and safeguarding the well-being of their citizens.
Dr Filimon Manoni, Acting Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, emphasised the guide’s profound significance, stating, “It provides deeper insights into the nature of climate-induced risks on security and highlights the existential threat of climate change in our Blue Pacific Continent.”
Yemesrach Workie, Deputy Resident Representative of the UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji said, “We are filled with immense pride to witness the momentous release of the Pacific Climate Security Assessment Guide, which marks a significant milestone in our continuous endeavours to address the pressing challenges brought forth by climate change in the Pacific region.”
“At UNDP, we firmly believe in the transformative power of collaboration and partnership. As we take this resolute stride forward, we reassert our unwavering commitment to the Blue Pacific and a sustainable future for all. By harnessing the expertise and resources of numerous stakeholders, we stand united in our pursuit to safeguard and nurture our shared home.”
The Pacific Climate Security Assessment Guide stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and cooperation in addressing regional challenges. By leveraging the expertise and resources of multiple stakeholders, the guide offers a comprehensive approach to understanding and confronting climate-induced security risks. With the release of this groundbreaking guide, the Pacific region takes a decisive step forward in enhancing its resilience and security in the face of climate change. Together, we strive to protect our shared home, the Blue Pacific, and ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for generations to come.
This story was originally published at PIFS on 26 July 2023, reposted via PACNEWS.
