This year, Fiji commemorates 50 years of independence, its Prime Minister, Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka, said, calling attention to the “Ocean of Peace” declaration adopted by the leaders of the Pacific, as well as the “Pacific way”, a phrase coined by Fiji’s first Prime Minister to describe the calm and orderly way in which Pacific island States worked towards their independence.  However, his region has been a theatre for two world wars and a testing ground for deadly weapons.  Also noting the many conflicts around the world, he said the UN must address the root causes of instability with the same urgency that it addresses its consequences. Sustained peace is only possible with prosperity, he said, adding that his Government’s full attention is directed at poverty alleviation.

On climate change, the Prime Minister stressed:  “Science is clear, the powerful G20 Group has been responsible for 80 per cent of total emissions.”  Therefore, they must lead the charge — keeping with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, he said, stressing the importance of a Loss and Damage Fund that meets the scale of the challenge.  “We continue to reward polluters who wreck our planet,” he pointed out, noting that the fossil fuel industry continues to pocket massive profits and subsidies, while “everyday people bear the costs of climate catastrophe — from rising insurance premiums to lost livelihoods.”  The July 2025 International Court of Justice Advisory Opinion on Climate Change affirms this — countries that are liable for climate change damage must bear the full cost.

Highlighting Fiji’s foreign policy priority of “family first Pacific regionalism”, he said his Government is looking at ways to host those island communities that may find it impossible to remain on their islands. Stressing the need for a legal definition for such communities, he said that to date, they are merely referred to as “displaced people”.  “In the Pacific, where over 90 per cent of land is communally owned, those that are being displaced will be landless before they become stateless, stripping them further of their dignity,” he noted.  Fiji is facing the reality of “sovereignty within sovereignty” and setting the precedent for this complex, sensitive and costly work.  He also called for urgent efforts to address plastic pollution, conserve biodiversity and protect endangered species.

The existing financing architecture systemically disadvantages small island developing States through complex processes and lengthy approvals, he pointed out.  “As a small economy, we need direct funding access modalities, simplified procedures and small island developing States-specific funding windows,” he said, also highlighting the importance of the of the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index.  Fiji is also pursuing constitutional reform, and has established a Truth and Reconciliation Page Commission to provide a platform for all voices, particularly those affected by its past upheavals.  The country is also finalizing arrangements for “a purpose-built UN House” that will provide a functional platform for the Organization’s operations.