Pacific leaders unite at UN to demand urgent action on climate and ocean crises
Twelve Pacific Island countries (PICs) took the stage at the 2025 UN General Debate to outline their key concerns. Climate change and ocean protection dominated their speeches, reflecting the region’s growing focus on environmental challenges. The event also saw divisions over deep-sea mining and limited discussion on Australia’s bid to host COP31 in 2026.
The climate crisis and marine conservation topped the agenda for nearly all PICs. Every nation except Papua New Guinea referenced the International Court of Justice’s recent Advisory Opinion on climate change. Palau, which had been the first to ratify the BBNJ Agreement, welcomed its entry into force as a major step for ocean governance.
The 2025 UN General Debate highlighted the Pacific’s strong focus on climate action and ocean protection. Solomon Islands’ Security Council ambitions and the split over deep-sea mining also marked key developments. With no clear consensus on Australia’s COP31 bid, the region’s priorities remain firmly rooted in environmental and geopolitical challenges.
