The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres has called for urgent international action to protect the Pacific Ocean, emphasising the severe threats posed by climate change, plastic pollution, overfishing, and waste.
The Secretary-General highlighted the critical role of the ocean in Pacific cultures and economies, describing it as “the beating heart” of the region, which is being “exploited, polluted, and degraded.”
“Pacific nations lead the world in ocean stewardship,” the Secretary-General said.
He praised the global community for agreeing on a new course of action to safeguard marine biodiversity but urged all countries to ratify the recent international Agreement on Marine Biodiversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction.
“This will give the ocean, and ocean people, a fighting chance,” he stressed.
Addressing the broader security implications of climate change, the Secretary-General warned of rising international tensions and growing interest in the Pacific region from major powers.
He asserted that “the Pacific is best managed by Pacific islanders” and cautioned against allowing the region to become a battleground for geostrategic competition.
“I urge all countries to seize the chance presented at the Summit of the Future next month to revitalise multilateral institutions and re-boot multilateral solutions.
“We must equip our international system to meet today’s challenges and push for greater representation – including of Pacific countries, especially in multilateral financial institutions,” he said.
The Secretary-General reaffirmed the United Nations’ commitment to standing with the Pacific in its call for justice and change.
He underscored the need for global action to support the Blue Continent and significantly increase funding for climate adaptation, particularly for countries already experiencing the dramatic impacts of climate change.
“This is the message I will carry with me to the Pacific Island Forum in Tonga and to the Summit of the Future and the General Assembly in New York,” he said.
