Solomon Islands Launches First National Dialogue on Climate Loss and Damage

by Ednal Palmer

The Solomon Islands has kicked off its inaugural National Dialogue on Loss and Damage (L&D), marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to address climate-induced Loss and Damage.

Hosted at the Mendana Hotel in Honiara, the three-day event is a collaboration between the Solomon Islands Government and the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP).

It is part of the Loss and Damage Capacity and Capability Project, funded by the New Zealand Government and implemented by SPREP, aimed at strengthening national understanding, planning, and responses to irreparable climate impacts.

“This dialogue is about building a shared understanding of Loss and Damage and ensuring Solomon Islanders are ready to access climate finance and technical support,” said government officials.

The event brings together a wide range of stakeholders, including government representatives, civil society, private sector leaders, youth and women groups, and international experts.

Participants will share experiences, identify knowledge gaps, and co-develop strategies to address L&D, with a view to strengthening climate resilience across the country.

While adaptation and disaster risk reduction initiatives are underway, officials note a critical gap remains in creating a holistic national understanding of L&D—one that addresses both economic and non-economic impacts.

“At present, national discussions remain fragmented, with significant knowledge gaps across sectors, provinces, and communities,” the government said.

Key activities over the three days include sharing evidence and perspectives on L&D, identifying challenges and priority needs, laying the groundwork for a national L&D policy, and informing pilot projects to address urgent priorities.

Pacific Community (SPC), which also provides support to increase the capacity of Pacific Governments and communities to address Loss and Damage, will also present progress of its support to the Solomon Islands with the L&D policy.

The dialogue aligns with global developments, including the establishment of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD) at COP29 and the growing role of the Santiago Network for Loss and Damage, which together offer Pacific nations new avenues for climate finance and technical assistance.