Solomon Islands has formally endorsed the Global Principles for Addressing Climate Mobility, reaffirming its commitment to protecting communities displaced by climate change.
Speaking at the 2nd Climate Mobility Forum in Berlin, Germany, Minister for Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology Wayne Ghemu said climate change is no longer a future threat for the Solomon Islands but a present-day reality.
He said rising sea levels have already claimed five reef islands, severely eroded another six, and forced entire communities to relocate.
“Protecting people in a warming world means protecting their right to choose – to stay where they can, to move when they must, and to do either with dignity,” Ghemu said.
During the forum, the Solomon Islands also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) to strengthen cooperation on climate-related human mobility.
The partnership will support efforts to protect vulnerable communities, improve planning for climate-induced relocation, strengthen coastal resilience, and attract international climate finance.
Ghemu also urged greater international support to safeguard the sovereignty and maritime rights of small island developing states threatened by rising seas.
He concluded by calling for more climate adaptation funding to reach frontline communities, saying climate mobility responses must uphold human rights, cultural identity and dignity.
“Together, let us ensure our people can live with security and pride in the face of a changing climate,” he said.
