The Pacific Island Forum (PIF) member States have today discussed the final draft of the Pacific Regional Framework on Climate Mobility – a first for the region and for the world.
The Framework is a collaborative effort of the Pacific member States led by the Governments of Fiji and Tuvalu, as co-chairs of the Joint Working Group, and supported by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), Platform for Disaster Displacement (PDD), International Labour Organisation (ILO), UN Commission for Human Rights (UNCHR), International Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC), and the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF).
The two day dialogue held at the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS) in Suva, was co-chaired by the Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs Dr. Lesikimacuata Korovavala and the Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Justice and Communications from the Government of Tuvalu, Dr. Taupo Tauisi.
The co-chairs stated that the Framework on Climate Mobility is Member State led and reflects our common Pacific interests and aspirations.
It acknowledges the need for a culturally appropriate response that respects our diverse traditions while upholding national sovereignty.
The Framework also serves as a beacon of hope in our collective efforts to address common challenges.
The Pacific member States discussed the draft Framework in detail today, including comments from the Non-States Actors, with the hope that a new draft can be finalized, and tabled for the endorsement by the Pacific Leaders at their next meeting in November.
Dr. Korovavala thanked all the member states, stakeholders, and Non-State Actor partners for their commitment and dedication to this cause.
He said through such collective efforts, open dialogue, and collaboration, we can bring about meaningful change that make a lasting difference.
On the same note, he said the Framework reflects on the Pacific’s shared commitment to create a future where the rights, dignity, and well-being of our people are at the forefront of every development effort.
The Pacific member states were grateful for the opportunity to openly share their insights, perspectives, and recommendations which are critical to ensuring the effectiveness and relevance of the draft Framework.
