UNGA81 |Fiji Calls for Urgent Action on Sea-Level Rise

Fiji has called for urgent and collective international action to address the existential threat posed by sea-level rise to Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

Speaking at the High-Level Meeting on Sea-Level Rise at the United Nations, Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Honourable Sakiasi Ditoka, welcomed the United Nations Declaration on Sea-Level Rise and reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to multilateralism and international cooperation.

“The time to act is now,” Minister Ditoka said, highlighting the stark reality that SIDS contribute less than one per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, yet bear the brunt of climate change impacts.

Fiji reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights, sovereignty and future of its people, including through climate-related relocation and support for climate mobility across the Pacific.

Minister Ditoka also highlighted the Pacific’s continued collective advocacy, reaffirmed the Pacific Leaders Declaration in Koror, Palau, and called on the international community to support Pacific efforts.

“Inaction is to be avoided at all costs. We must act now, in unity and in conformity with international law, for the survival of our people now and in the future.”