Fiji today delivered a powerful national statement at the Seventh United Nations Environment Assembly, calling for urgent and united global action grounded in science, integrity and justice.
Speaking on behalf of the Asia Pacific region, following Fiji’s leadership as Chair of the Sixth Asia Pacific Forum of Ministers and Environment Authorities, the Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Hon. Mosese Bulitavu reaffirmed the region’s shared commitment to protecting people, ecosystems and economies in the face of accelerating environmental challenges.
In his address, the Minister reflected on the historic AP6 Forum held in Nadi earlier this year which brought together more than 300 participants from 33 countries. He emphasised that the voices that shaped the Forum came from all corners of society including youth leaders, Indigenous custodians, scientists, the private sector and frontline communities. Their message was clear. The Asia Pacific region expects UNEA 7 to deliver outcomes that matter in the daily lives of people and that strengthen the resilience of natural systems that sustain the region.
The Minister underscored that for many countries across the Asia Pacific, environmental action is not theoretical. It is a matter of survival and dignity. He highlighted the growing threats of climate impacts and sea level rise, the urgency of restoring ocean and freshwater health, the importance of implementing the new global biodiversity framework, and the expectation that countries will conclude a meaningful global plastics agreement that addresses the entire life cycle of plastic pollution.
He also reaffirmed the region’s call for stronger means of implementation including finance, technology cooperation, capacity building and better data systems. The Minister stressed that commitments made at UNEA must be matched with tangible support, especially for countries that contribute the least to global environmental degradation yet face the greatest risks.
A key element of Fiji’s statement was the recognition of the International Court of Justice Advisory Opinion on climate change obligations. The Minister described it as one of the most significant developments in contemporary international environmental law and a reminder that the global community must uphold its responsibilities to vulnerable nations and peoples. He noted that for Pacific Small Island Developing States, the advisory opinion affirms the right to a safe and secure future.
The Minister also welcomed the strong progress made on the five draft resolutions submitted by the Asia Pacific region to UNEA 7, reflecting unity of purpose and ambition. He conveyed confidence that these resolutions will support stronger global environmental governance and accelerate action where it is most needed.
As the Assembly moves toward its conclusion, the Minister reiterated Fiji’s commitment to multilateralism and partnership. He called on countries to ensure that decisions made in Nairobi translate into real improvements in the resilience of communities, the health of ecosystems and the accountability of those with the greatest capacity to act.
“Fiji comes to UNEA 7 with humility, determination and hope,” the Minister stated. “We know what is at stake for our people and for our ocean continent. We also know that when the world works together with honesty and urgency, progress is possible. UNEA must continue to be a place where that progress is made real.”