PH-Fiji Hosts 53rd PIFLM Side Event on Climate Mobility and Labor Mobility: Experiences and Opportunities in the Asia-Pacific Region

NUKU’ALOFA, TONGA 04 September 2024 – The Philippines, in collaboration with Fiji, and with the participation of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), hosted a side event titled “Climate Mobility and Labor Mobility: Experiences and Opportunities in the Asia-Pacific Region” during the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting (PIFLM). This event focused on regional adaptation strategies in response to climate change and their interaction with regular labor mobility. The Philippines, renowned for its robust Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and labor migration policies, was highlighted as a potential hub for policy exchange in the region to continue the dialogue on climate-induced labor mobility, particularly in light of its role as the host of the Loss and Damage Fund Board. 

Undersecretary Charles C. Jose, designated as Special Envoy of the President to the 53rd PIF, called on countries to strengthen regional cooperation between the Philippines and Pacific Island Countries and other stakeholders to develop comprehensive labor mobility frameworks as well as joint efforts in research, policy development, and capacity building. Special Envoy and Undersecretary Jose highlighted that, “the Philippines will continue to be a reliable partner and an innovative pathfinder in contributing to addressing existing and emerging global challenges for our people and planet.”

Special Envoy Jose was joined in the panel by Dr. Sivendra Michael, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change of Fiji, and Mr. Solomon Kantha, Chief of Mission for Fiji and Sub-Regional Coordinator of the Pacific, IOM.  

Permanent Secretary Michael shared Fiji’s experience on labor mobility and climate mobility, and his views on how Fiji manages its diaspora in view of climate change and other challenges.  

Chief of Mission Kantha discussed trends and developments in the region, and how IOM supports collaborations on programs to promote and protect the interests of migrants. 

During the open forum, in-depth discussions on critical topics ensued, including on human trafficking, role of research, and remittances, within the context of climate mobility and labor mobility. Permanent Secretary Michael challenged the audience to reconsider the notion of "resilience" through research on lived experiences, and to incorporate local knowledge on climate change adaptation. Chief of Mission Kantha agreed that more research whether data is properly used on climate and labor mobility policies. 

To close the side event, Special Envoy Jose emphasized that while human trafficking issues in migration will require close bilateral coordination of sending and receiving states, coping with the social cost of migration is also an area to address. He also highlighted that within the ambit of the Philippines vision to contribute further to the international cooperation and dialogue, including through its candidature for a non-permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for term 2027-2028, the Philippines will serve as the voice of the Pacific as the host of the Loss and Damage Fund Board.

The Philippines is a dialogue partner of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), the premier platform for Pacific Island Countries to engage with stakeholders across the board to contribute in providing sustainable solutions to global challenges. END