Climate Action and Pacific Resilience: King Tupou VI’s Pivotal Speech at COP28
Dubai Expo City, December 1, 2023
In an impactful speech at the 28th Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), His Majesty King Tupou VI of the Kingdom of Tonga not only captivated his audience but also underscored the urgent need for global cooperation in combating climate change. The setting, Dubai Expo City, provided a fitting backdrop for a discussion that would reverberate across continents, particularly resonating with the small island developing states (SIDS) at the frontline of climate change impacts.
Commendation and Concern
King Tupou VI opened his address by commending the United Arab Emirates for hosting the conference, coinciding with the UAE national day celebrations. This move not only honoured the hosts but also set a tone of unity and shared purpose.
However, the King swiftly pivoted to express his deep concern for SIDS, particularly in the Pacific. He highlighted the distressing slow progress on the Paris Agreement and its implications for these vulnerable regions. The King’s words painted a vivid picture of the existential threat posed by climate change, where rising sea levels and increasing natural disasters displace thousands annually.
A Call to Action
One of the most poignant moments in the speech was King Tupou VI’s appeal for global cooperation. He urged the international community to support the Pacific Partnerships for Prosperity (PPfP) and to contribute towards establishing a Pacific Resilience Facility. This call for action was not just a plea but a strategic move to galvanize support for tangible, localized solutions to a global problem.
The Ocean Connection
King Tupou VI, in his speech, emphasized the intrinsic connection between the ocean and the Pacific peoples. The ocean is more than a resource; it’s an integral part of their culture, economy, and survival. He stressed the importance of technological innovation, particularly in ocean energy technologies, to improve climate resilience in the Pacific.
Envisioning a Resilient Future
The King’s vision for a resilient future was encapsulated in his reference to the “Unlocking the Blue Pacific Prosperity Plan”. This ambitious plan aims for effective ocean management and robust, resilient ecosystems. King Tupou VI’s advocacy for a paradigm shift in climate action – focusing on nature, people, lives, and livelihoods – was a powerful call to realign priorities in the global climate agenda.
Conclusion
His Majesty King Tupou VI’s speech at COP28 was more than an appeal; it was a clarion call for urgent and collective action in the face of climate change. It highlighted the plight of the Pacific Islands while offering a roadmap towards resilience and sustainability. As the world grapples with environmental challenges, the King’s words at Dubai Expo City serve as a reminder of our shared responsibility and the need for immediate, concerted action for a sustainable future.
