Vanuatu is calling for more climate finance and easier access to funding for vulnerable island nations like itself.

Speaking at the United Nations Disaster Risk Reduction (UN DRR) Forum in Geneva, Minister of Climate Change Hon. Ralph Regenvanu strongly urged the international community to scale up financial support for adaptation and disaster risk reduction.

“There needs to be scaled-up climate finance across the board, and it needs to go directly to country platforms,” Minister Regenvanu stated.

He emphasized that Small Island Developing States (SIDS) such as Vanuatu contribute little to global emissions but bear the brunt of climate impacts like rising sea levels and stronger cyclones.

“We are dealing with loss and damage because adaptation finance has been insufficient. The world needs to face the truth—fossil fuels are the main cause of these disasters. We must increase climate finance for adaptation now,” he said.

The Minister highlighted the need for community-based early warning systems and praised traditional knowledge as a vital tool in strengthening disaster preparedness.

He cited the VAN-KIRAP project as a successful example of integrating custom knowledge into modern climate communication tools.

“VAN-KIRAP incorporates traditional knowledge at all stages, using research and local understanding to deliver timely warnings to communities.”

Minister Regenvanu also called for the development of a real-time climate data system that can reach all islands, especially those in remote and high-risk areas.

“We need early warning systems that cover everyone, everywhere.”

Vanuatu’s call at the UN DRR Forum reflects its growing leadership on the global climate stage, advocating for equity, urgent action, and community-driven solutions in the face of escalating climate threats.