Pacific youth kicked off a climate dialogue series in Suva today, asserting their independence and readiness to voice their concerns at COP31 later this year. This series, hosted by Pasifika Communities University, connects young people from across the region, both in person and online.
Miliana Iga, the Pacific Youth Council Coordinator, emphasized the importance of addressing local issues before presenting them globally. “We’re not waiting for others to tell us what to do,” she said.
The series is co-led by the Pacific Youth Council and the United Nations, with Australia co-chairing COP31, which involves crucial discussions on global climate policies.
Bidisha Pillai, UNFPA Director for Pacific Island Countries, praised the youth for already impacting global decisions. She highlighted a recent UN resolution that holds countries accountable for their climate commitments, driven largely by the efforts of Pacific youth. “You’re shaping the agenda and reminding negotiators that real people are affected,” she remarked.
The series aims to produce a Pacific Youth Statement to be shared at pre-COP meetings and possibly at COP31 in Turkey. With sessions scheduled for July and August, the dialogue is set to continue well beyond this year.
This gathering reflects a growing trend among youth globally to demand accountability from their leaders on climate issues. According to a recent survey by the Pew Research Center, around 70% of young people believe their governments should prioritize climate change.
These statistics reveal a rising consciousness and urgency among the younger generation, showcasing their willingness to advocate for a sustainable future. More unity and voices from Pacific youth could indeed reshape international discussions, driving tangible change.
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