Global Outlook

At COP28 the issue of loss and damage must be addressed. It is within this context that the voices of the Pacific youth become absolutely indispensable.

Australia is making headlines around the world for offering the people of Tuvalu a new ‘human mobility pathway named the Australia-Tuvalu Falepili Union. Tuvaluans have not been consulted on this plan.

Security agreements have become an important measure of the close relationship between global partners and Pacific Island states. In geopolitics, this 'close relationship' is usually another way of saying partners have influence, control or power over Pacific countries.

There are challenges to the narrative of climate change as an existential crisis for Pacific Island countries, including a rejection of the forced migration scenario that has been painted by international media and other external observers, especially for atoll populations.

If funding for climate change loss and damage is to reach those most affected, the real climate change adaptation that is needed is to how climate finance is delivered.

For the Pacific Conference of Churches there are compelling reasons to attend COP28 in Dubai.