18:30–20:30
Pacific Small Islands Development State (PSIDS) Reception: OUR PACIFIC, OUR HOME, OUR FUTURE
Fiji Government
The PSIDS Reception will bring together Pacific leaders, community representatives, partners and stakeholders to celebrate Pacific identity, culture, resilience and collective aspirations. As Pacific Island countries engage in the COP31 process, the reception will provide a space to connect the lived realities of Pacific communities with the discussions and decisions taking place at the international level. Through cultural performances, music and community storytelling, the event will highlight the importance of protecting Pacific homes, livelihoods, cultures and future generations. A central feature of the reception will be the voices of three community representatives, who will share their experiences of village life, the challenges their communities face, their hopes for COP31 and the support they urgently need. Their contributions will bring a human perspective to the climate crisis, reminding participants that behind every negotiation are people, families and communities whose futures depend on meaningful climate action. The reception will also celebrate the diversity of Pacific cultures through performances by Matavai Cultural Group and the This Is Our Home band. A Pacific dance medley beginning and concluding with a Fijian meke will celebrate Fiji's role as host while recognising the shared heritage and solidarity of the wider Pacific family. Under the theme “Our Pacific, Our Home, Our Future” the reception will reinforce the importance of Pacific unity, community leadership and translating climate commitments into practical outcomes for the people who need them most. Objectives The PSIDS Reception aims to: 1. Celebrate the diverse cultures, traditions and shared identity of Pacific Island countries and territories. Provide a platform for community representatives to share their lived experiences, priorities and expectations for COP31. 2. Highlight the urgent needs of Pacific communities, including access to climate finance, adaptation support and responses to loss and damage. 3. Reinforce the importance of meaningful community participation in climate decision-making and international negotiations. 4. Strengthen Pacific solidarity and reaffirm the collective responsibility to safeguard the region for present and future generations. 5. Encourage fellowship, networking and engagement among Pacific leaders, community representatives and partners.
- Venue
- Moana Blue Pacific Pavilion
- Speakers
- Honourable Lynda Tabuya, Minister for Information, Environment and Climate Change, Fiji, Dr. Sivendra Michael, Permanent Secretary, Government of Fiji and UNFCCC Oceans Dialogue Co-Facilitator(negotiations perspective; pre-COP31 bridge), Performances by the Matavai Cultural Group, Musical performance by This Is Our Home band