Why Combating Climate Change is Your Legal Duty, Not Just an Act of Charity | Insights from Cynthia Houniuhi

I often share stories from my childhood in the Reef Islands, a beautiful spot in the Solomon Islands. There, I learned to fish, plant crops, and hunt. I picked up how to read the weather and identify plants for healing. Most importantly, I learned to cherish the land and ocean.

At bedtime, my elders shared traditional stories that deepened our bond with the land. They explained how our islands were formed and why rivers flowed the way they did. These tales taught me to appreciate the natural world around us.

But today, things have changed. Our ocean, once a friend, now poses a real threat to our home. I watch as it slowly erodes our island of Fanalei, the place we treasure. Extreme weather events—like king tides and floods—are no longer rare. They are here and now, and they fill us with fear. We wonder if our island will still be here tomorrow.

I often lie awake, thinking about the future of my people. Relocation comes up in conversations, but how do we leave the only home we’ve ever known? Will anyone care if our islands vanish? What about the generations yet to come?

The fight for climate justice feels daunting, but I realize we must stand up for ourselves. I want a secure future for my children and their children. Our islands mean everything to us. They are part of our identity, and their loss would not be something that money or development could replace.

After a long struggle, my group of Pacific students achieved what many thought was impossible. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) recognized climate change as a violation of our rights. Countries burning fossil fuels are responsible for the harm we face. This ruling emphasized that stopping climate change is not just an option but a legal obligation.

The ICJ also stated that all steps in fossil fuel processes, from extraction to burning, are unlawful. This gives communities like mine a fighting chance. We have a right to seek reparations for the damage inflicted upon us.

This ruling is a significant step toward protecting our children, ensuring they can live without the looming fear of climate issues. Recently, the Pacific Islands Forum was hosted by the Solomon Islands, marking a pivotal moment for our efforts.

Yet, a ruling alone won’t save our islands. Countries like Australia must take real action against fossil fuels. It’s an uphill battle, but each wave on Fanalei’s shores and every gust of wind reminds me of why we must keep fighting.

In recent discussions, global leaders are increasingly recognizing climate impact on small island nations. A recent study found that 70% of Pacific Islanders believe they will have to move due to rising sea levels. This statistic highlights the pressing need for solutions.

Our journey isn’t just about survival; it’s about thriving. Every step we take is for our land, our ocean, and our future. We must keep pushing for change, for ourselves and those who come after us.



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