Abstract:
Amid recurrent media depictions of ‘sinking islands’ and scenarios of mass relocation of island communities from low- lying atolls, three consistent messages from Pacific peoples can be heard. The first is that for most, their wish and intention is to continue to live in their home countries despite the mounting effects of climate change with dignity, in safety and prosperity. Secondly, Pacific communities have no wish to relieve the international community of its obligations and commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by offering large- scale migration from low- lying islands as ‘the’ solution to climate change within the region. Thirdly, migration should, if it is ultimately necessary, be undertaken in a planned, coordinated way, respecting and reflecting the resilience of people who are no strangers to re- establishing themselves in new environments in response to changing environmental conditions. This is what they have done for centuries.
