Fiji is hosting the Pacific Islands Expanded Constituency Workshop this week, bringing together 150 leaders from 15 Pacific Island States and development partners to ensure that global environmental financing delivers real, lasting impact for Pacific communities.
The workshop, convened by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change in partnership with the Global Environment Facility, began on 24 February 2026 and will conclude on 27 February 2026. Central to discussions is strengthening collaboration across the region and with international partners so that climate and environmental funding directly supports national priorities, country ownership and practical outcomes on the ground.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon. Viliame Gavoka, emphasised the urgency of coordinated action at both regional and global levels.
“Environmental stewardship is no longer solely a moral responsibility; it is a legal one, and it is one the Pacific has led with confidence, clarity and credibility,” he said.
He noted that rising sea levels, ecosystem degradation and increasing environmental risks continue to threaten livelihoods, economies and infrastructure across the Pacific. The workshop, he said, provides an important opportunity to ensure that GEF resources are better aligned with Pacific needs and deliver measurable results.
For Fiji, GEF support has contributed to strengthening climate resilience, protecting biodiversity and improving environmental management systems.
Since 1991, the Global Environment Facility has delivered more than $800 million in funding across over 270 projects in the Pacific region. GEF Head of Programming Dr. Fred Boltz acknowledged the region’s leadership in global environmental advocacy.
“Pacific island countries are global leaders in demonstrating how conserving nature underpins resilience and sustainable development,” he said.
This week’s discussions aim to deepen cooperation, scale up integrated solutions and ensure that global environmental finance responds effectively to the priorities of Small Island Developing States.
The meeting reflects Fiji’s continued leadership in advancing Pacific partnerships that deliver long-term benefits for communities, ecosystems and economies across the region.