No more empty promises, Pacific tells world leaders at COP31

Pacific leaders have warned world powers that island nations cannot afford another decade of climate promises without action, as rising sea levels and other climate threats continue to endanger communities across the region.

Delivering the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat's statement at the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Türkiye, yesterday, Pacific Islands Forum Chair and Palau President Surangel Whipps called for urgent action on climate commitments.

“Our islands cannot afford another decade of promises. Every year of delay is measured in our coastlines, our reefs and our homes,” Mr Whipps said.

He said Pacific communities were already experiencing the effects of climate change on their homes, coastlines and marine resources.

Mr Whipps said Pacific leaders had established a clear direction through the Belau Declaration and expected the international community to match the region's commitments with meaningful action.

“COP31 must be where commitments become delivery,” he said.

US$300 million funding gap

Mr Whipps also called on international partners to help close a funding gap of more than US$300 million for the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF).

The Pacific-owned initiative is designed to provide direct support to communities facing climate-related challenges.

He said the facility was ready to deliver assistance but required further financial support to reach its initial funding target.

“Antalya is where our partners can close that gap. We come united, and we ask the world to meet us with action,” he said.

Pacific demands stronger commitments

The region's position is supported by two major declarations: the 2019 Kainaki II Declaration and the Belau Declaration, endorsed at the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Palau.

Both declarations call for stronger international efforts to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, protect the oceans and improve access to climate finance for Pacific communities.

At COP31, the Pacific Islands Forum is pushing for deeper reductions in global emissions, reliable climate financing and stronger protection for oceans and vulnerable communities.

Fiji's Minister for Information, Environment and Climate Change, Lynda Tabuya, is among the Pacific Political Climate Champions attending the conference and representing the region's climate finance priorities.

The conference runs from November 9 to 20, with Pacific leaders seeking stronger international partnerships and concrete commitments to protect the Blue Pacific Continent and future generations.