COP26 Highlights From Week 1

Climate vulnerable countries like Fiji are taking a lead role yet again in Glasgow as we wrap up Week 1 of COP26.

This is simply because our lived realities reflect what the science has repeatedly confirmed.  The lives and livelihoods of climate vulnerable countries are on the line.  While our contribution to CO2 emissions is negligible, yet we are the most impacted. 

The latest IPCC report is clear, we must halve global emissions by 2030.

It will take a lot of courage to have a swing at the developed countries, the major emitters who are often the big donors.  But it must be done.  For the sake of humanity, our children and future. 

As we look back at the week that was, here are some moments to highlight:

1. The audience with the Prince of Wales was perhaps the highlight of the week.  Not so much because of the photo opportunity it presented but more so for accepting Fiji’s request for an audience.  Given his busy schedule and obligations, Prince Charles went above and beyond to have three development partners in the room to meet with Fiji’s High Level delegation led by Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama.

The common ground shared by the Prince of Wales and Mr Bainimarama as climate change and environment champions can only strengthen their relationship.

2. Any Pacific islander who watched Brianna Fruean speak on the first day of the World Leaders Summit would have been proud.

This humble activist and environmental advocate for Samoa is part of the Pacific Climate Warriors group who are making waves in Glasgow.  Brianna’s humble demeanour yet firm convictions sets her apart.

She knows she is where she is today because of the investment others have made in her life.  To other young Pacific islanders, Brianna’s call is to stand up and join the fight.

Here are her reflections of the day she stood up and spoke to the world:

“You know, it was almost an emotional experience, because it’s like trying to talk to leaders who have continuously not listened. So how do we tell that story differently and I think, for years, the UN and big structures like this, and big government have expected Pacific Islanders to come and cry, and to come and show them of pain and say, “We’re here, please help us, please save us.” And that’s not the story I wanted to tell. I wanted to tell that story of resilience. And it was really inspired by those in our islands, those in islands like Fiji who have started so many great projects that I see in many Fijian youths even at USP. I’m always inspired by the students there that are so proactive in their projects. And it’s that resilience that I wanted to be able to show the world leaders because we’re not drowning. We’re fighting.”

3. Meeting his Indian counterpart in Glasgow is like meeting an old friend after a long while. For Mr Bainimarama, his friend Narendra Modi will always be remembered as the first Indian Prime Minister to visit our shores.

While the new Infrastructure Resilient Project designed to benefit small island states is welcomed, Mr Bainimarama used the opportunity to remind his old friend that a net zero commitment is needed by 2030, no later.

Feedback:  rosi.doviverata@fijisun.com.fj