Pacific youth are stepping up to ensure climate action remains a priority on the global stage, especially after the recent COP30 summit in Brazil. This major event, which drew nearly 45,000 participants, has sparked conversations about leadership from the Pacific region and future steps to combat climate change.
Toa Sifia Fonoti and Vira Paky, both from Save the Children New Zealand, shared their insights following the conference. Getting back from Belém just last week, Fonoti expressed a mix of excitement and concern. “The energy at COP30 was palpable. It was inspiring to see so many people sharing stories and ideas,” she shared during an interview on Pacific Mornings. At 19, she’s studying Primary Education at Auckland University of Technology and serves as the 2024 Generation Hope Ambassador.
Fonoti is passionate about children’s rights in climate discussions, stressing the importance of youth representation. “Young voices must be heard. Their safety on this planet should always come first,” she said.
Paky, attending her second COP, highlighted the progress made through the Mutirão Decision. This agreement outlines how countries should tackle climate action leading up to 2030. “Often, discussions around climate include children and youth in vague terms, but this agreement clearly prioritizes them,” she noted. This is a significant victory for youth involvement in climate decisions.
The outcome of COP30 had some surprises, including the announcement that Türkiye will host COP31 after Australia withdrew its bid. Despite this, Pacific nations plan to unite for a pre-COP meeting to solidify their negotiating stance.
Paky insists on the significance of the Pacific perspective. “What we’ve experienced cannot be ignored. We understand the impacts of climate change firsthand,” she reflected. As preparations for COP31 commence, she remains hopeful about keeping Pacific voices central in climate discussions.
The commitment to climate action isn’t confined to the summit. Activists in New Zealand, like Sophie Handford and Mary Moeono-Kolio, have also made strides. They contributed to a book that highlights youth leadership in climate activism. Moeono-Kolio, a founding member of the Pacific Climate Warriors, emphasizes that inclusion is vital, particularly for marginalized voices.
Handford, a leader of the Strike 4 Climate movement, points to the power of community collaboration: “Building a movement requires diverse perspectives. It’s important we listen to different voices,” she stated.
Looking ahead, leaders like Fonoti are eager to create spaces for all young people. “The climate conversation needs to include everyone,” she emphasized. As COP31 draws nearer, the message from Pacific youth is clear: their communities are on the frontlines, and their voices must be included in every decision impacting their future.
A recent report indicates that youth activism in climate affairs has seen a rise, with over 70% of young people in New Zealand advocating for more immediate action. The urgency to address climate change is perhaps stronger than ever.
