Indigenous communities leading the fight against climate change not by choice, but out of necessity - Ratu Isikeli

Indigenous communities across the region are leading the fight against climate change not just out of choice, but out of necessity.

This was emphasised by Assistant Minister for i-Taukei Affairs, Ratu Isikeli Tuiwailevu during the opening of the 2024 Oceania First Voice Regional Forum.

Ratu Isikeli says that every day, we are faced with issues resulting from climate change, and today we bear witness to unprecedented acts of nature across the world.

He says that as for this year’s forum,'one voice, one people, one world' is a reminder to all of us that regardless of national boundaries and cultural differences, we are all connected.

The Assistant Minister further says we have come together as representatives from across Oceania to exchange ideas, lessons learned, and best practices from our communities in response to climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable development goals

He adds that from a young age, we are taught that the land is communal, shared not just by the present inhabitants but must also be protected for future generations.

Lau Charitable Group Chairman, Ane Finau Domone says the indigenous people are strengthened by the community ties in which they live and the work they engage in, such as collaboration and togetherness.

Domone says our ancestral beliefs and traditional ways ensure the sustainability of our livelihoods.

She adds that after this workshop,the expectation is for a policy to be mandated for the indigenous to gain recognition.

Meanwhile, the theme for the 2024 Oceania First Voice Regional Forum is 'One Voice, One People, One World.