By Christine Tuioti*
Talei Cavu, a young climate negotiator from Fiji, is making waves in the fight against climate change. As the Ocean Officer for Fiji’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, she emphasizes the need for Pacific voices to be heard globally.
This year is significant for Cavu. After participating in COP30 in Belem, Brazil, she is now heading to New York City as part of the prestigious Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) Fellowship. This program supports early career professionals, enabling them to develop skills that are crucial for effective negotiations.
In a recent interview, Cavu reflected on her journey. She grew up in Suva, Fiji’s capital, and often listened to her grandmother’s stories. Her grandmother would say, “You learn to swim thrown into the deep end.” Cavu relates this to her own entry into climate negotiations. Starting as an intern, she quickly became a vital voice representing her community’s experiences.
Today, she focuses on “Just Transition,” a critical goal for the Pacific aimed at shifting to a low-carbon economy fairly and inclusively. Cavu feels a deep responsibility to carry her people’s stories to the global stage. “Being that voice is a privilege,” she says, acknowledging that many elders’ wisdom often goes unheard at international conferences.
However, challenges remain. Pacific negotiators need ongoing support beyond just the annual UN climate talks, known as COP. The AOSIS Fellowship aims to address this by enhancing negotiation skills, fostering alliances, and helping participants navigate complex discussions.
For example, there are around 200 agenda items at UN climate talks, but Pacific nations often only focus on 14 key areas to manage their limited resources effectively. Cavu highlights the power of unity through AOSIS, stating, “When we speak cohesively, we amplify our influence.” This collaborative approach is vital for small island nations facing urgent climate threats.
According to AOSIS data, 90% of fellowship participants return home after completing the program and continue advocating for their countries. Despite the Pacific region contributing just 0.02% to global emissions, young leaders like Cavu are driving the conversation on climate justice.
Nanette Woonton, an adviser for the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), reflects on the growing involvement of young people in climate negotiations. “Two decades ago, the delegations were smaller. Now, we see more youth organizing and demanding change, earning global recognition,” she states.
Climate change is a daily reality for many Pacific communities. As more young Pacific leaders, like Cavu, step into the arena, they create a stronger push for accountability and action. Cavu encourages her peers: “Your voice matters today. You bring invaluable lived experience to the table.
Christine Tuioti* participated in a work attachment supported by a partnership between RNZ Pacific, the Australian government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and the SPLICE Project implemented by SPREP.
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