WHY FIJI
The theme of ‘Global Synergies: Climate Resilience Strategies for a Sustainable Tomorrow’ was crafted considering the regional significance of Fiji as an island nation extremely vulnerable to the threat of climate change and the nation’s national priorities and regional initiatives focused on this.
Fiji plays a strong and dynamic role in the collective pursuit of climate resilience, interconnected with similar struggles faced by the wider Global South. The conference aims to highlight this through a strong collaboration between the Global Development Network and the Government of Fiji, a leader and particularly affected country in the region.
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS (SDGS)
The conference theme aligns with Fiji’s commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 13 on Climate Action. By fostering global synergies, the event aims to contribute to the broader agenda of achieving sustainable development, recognising the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic goals.
COMMON REGIONAL CHALLENGES
Recognising commonalities in climate-related challenges across the Pacific region, Fiji is a strong representative of the region. The nation advocates for regional collaboration in addressing issues like sea-level rise, extreme weather events, and ecological threats, aligning with regional efforts such as the Pacific Islands Framework for Action on Climate Change (2006-2015) and the Pacific Climate Change Migration and Human Security (PCCMHS) Programme currently entering its Phase II.
FIJI’S REGIONAL CONTRIBUTIONS
Fiji has made considerable contributions to regional initiatives such as the Pacific Islands Development Forum (PIDF), showcasing its active role in fostering regional partnerships. Conference participants will be encouraged to draw inspiration from Fiji’s dedication and experiences.
REGIONAL KNOWLEDGE EXCHANGE HUB
The conference will be a knowledge exchange hub at the regional level, highlighting initiatives such as the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) and enabling a robust exchange of ideas and best practices to fortify regional climate resilience.
GLOBAL SOUTH SOLIDARITY
Fiji is highly capable of strengthening the nexus for Global South solidarity by recognising shared climate challenges faced by countries in this region. It draws parallels with initiatives such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), that emphase the strength of collaborative efforts within the Global South.
REGIONAL POLICY LANDSCAPE
Fiji’s Climate Change Act and other regional policies provide a contextual backdrop for understanding the regulatory landscape. The theme of the conference calls for harmonizing regional efforts with government-led initiatives, ensuring a cohesive and impactful approach to climate resilience.
By focusing on regional collaboration to address the challenges of the Global South, the conference aims to create a space where participants can collectively explore solutions that transcend borders. Fiji’s role as a co-host serves as a focal point for regional discussions, fostering collaboration that extends beyond the conference’s geographical boundaries.