The climate crisis is a serious threat to our world. Its impact is not the same for everyone. Small island nations, like mine, are facing the worst effects. We’re dealing with rising sea levels, extreme weather, and losing our livelihoods.
As leaders, it’s essential to change our policies and rethink how we connect with our communities. By 2100, 250 million people could be affected by rising sea levels. Right now, millions in coastal areas and small islands already feel these impacts. Other regions suffer from droughts and wildfires.
These challenges put our homes, economies, and futures at risk. We urgently need action and a shift in our global mindset. We must understand our shared humanity and fate. To confront this crisis, we need global support and solidarity.
As a recipient of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, I believe caring for each other is crucial in addressing climate change. This responsibility is just as important as scientific advancements or funding efforts. Just like a family supports its weaker members, the global community must help those nations facing the brunt of climate change.
The current global financial system struggles to support climate action. It was created long ago without considering today’s challenges. For instance, organizations like Bretton Woods were formed over 80 years ago to restore European economies after World War II. The urgency of climate change calls for a new approach. We need to focus on sustainable growth and climate resilience in financial systems.
The Bridgetown Initiative pushes for change in how development banks operate. It suggests they should lend more, reflect climate risks, and offer grants and low-interest loans to those most affected by climate change. Innovative ideas like debt-for-nature swaps can provide financial relief for vulnerable nations while allowing them to address climate challenges more effectively.
But money alone isn’t enough. We need to change how we define development. It’s time to prioritize social justice, environmental health, and overall well-being instead of just GDP growth. Our economic models must adapt. Infinite growth on a limited planet is unsustainable. We should embrace a circular economy that values resource efficiency and reduces waste.
This shift relies on global cooperation. In a connected world, every action impacts others. Protecting the planet must be a shared mission. We need to ensure that those least responsible for the climate crisis do not suffer the most from its consequences.
Leading Barbados has shown me the strength of community. We’ve learned to adapt and innovate despite challenges. Empowering local communities in climate adaptation is crucial, and nature-based solutions can make us stronger.
These lessons apply to all nations, regardless of wealth or size. The world looks to small island countries for leadership not because of our power, but because we must lead. We can’t face this challenge alone; everyone must participate to protect our planet for the future.
The climate crisis is more than an environmental issue—it’s a global challenge requiring collective action. We can’t let borders or politics divide us. This is a test of our shared humanity, and we can succeed only through global solidarity and everyday actions from people everywhere.
The writer is Prime Minister of Barbados and a 2025 honoree of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity.
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