Vanuatu and other Pacific Island countries are challenging the world leaders at the Conference of the Parties , COP 31 in Turkey to ensuring that the voices raised at COP31 lead to action beyond the conference halls.

Speaking at the Moana Pavillion during the “Navigating Climate Justice and Demand of a Region” session, on day 3 of COP31, Vanuatu Climate Action Network Coordinator, Mario Liunamel, says Pacific Island countries have spent years pushing for stronger global climate action, but communities are still waiting to see results.

“It’s been so long that we are negotiating about climate change and it’s about time to take action,” Liunamel said. 

He says Vanuatu’s priorities include keeping the 1.5-degree temperature limit within reach, stopping new fossil fuel extraction, and ensuring countries take responsibility for their contribution to climate change.

For him, action must go beyond international agreements and reach the people on the frontline.

“We want to see action with technical assistance and resources to reach community.”

The call is also being echoed by other young climate advocates from across the region, who say Pacific voices must remain part of decisions that will shape the future of the Pacific.