Fiji urges global action on humanitarian norms and climate resilience at 151st IPU Assembly

The Speaker of Parliament the Hon. Filimone Jitoko, delivered a compelling address at the 151st Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly, calling on global leaders to uphold humanitarian norms and strengthen humanitarian action in times of crisis.

Speaking under the Assembly’s theme, “Upholding humanitarian norms and supporting humanitarian action in times of crisis,” Hon. Jitoko emphasised the need for inclusive, co-ordinated responses to both visible and silent emergencies affecting millions worldwide.

In his address, the Hon. Speaker acknowledged the recent peace in Gaza and Palestine, expressing hope that it will endure and inspire further global efforts toward reconciliation and stability.

He highlighted that for Small Island Developing States like Fiji, the climate crisis is not a distant threat but a daily reality.

“Fiji faces intensifying cyclones, rising sea levels, and displacement of communities – challenges that stretch national resources and test resilience.”

“Despite these hardships, Fiji continues to demonstrate leadership through legislative action, international co-operation, and a commitment to humanitarian principles.”

Hon. Jitoko outlined Fiji’s proactive approach to aligning domestic legislation with international humanitarian and human rights standards. He cited Fiji’s ratification of nine core international human rights treaties and the enactment of forward-looking laws on environment such as the Climate Change Act 2021 and the Environmental Levy Act 2017, which together form the backbone of Fiji’s climate strategy. These laws support mitigation, adaptation, and disaster risk reduction, whilst giving effect to Fiji’s obligations under the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement.

A key regional initiative highlighted was the Pacific Ocean as an ‘Ocean of Peace’, a concept championed by Fiji’s Prime Minister and recently endorsed by the Pacific Island Forum Leaders in Honiara. This vision reflects the region’s commitment to peace, sustainability, and shared stewardship of the ocean.

“The Fijian Parliament has also taken tangible steps to promote climate-conscious governance, including eliminating single-use plastics in parliamentary chambers, introducing reusable bottles, and advancing e-Parliament initiatives to reduce paper waste.”

“These efforts are part of a broader regional movement under the newly established Pacific Inter-Parliamentary Association (PIPA), which was formalised in August 2025. PIPA aims to strengthen democratic governance, resilience, and integration amongst Pacific Parliaments,” the Hon. Speaker said.

Hon. Jitoko stressed the importance of protecting democratic principles during crisis, noting that emergency powers must be exercised with transparency and respect for human rights.

Through its partnership with the UNDP, the Fijian Parliament has enhanced legislative capacity, citizen engagement, and inclusive representation. These values are reflected in the current national budget, which prioritises social protection and disaster resilience through:

• Increased support for vulnerable families, children, and the elderly;

• Funding for the relocation of climate-affected communities; and

• Financial support for NGOs and faith-based organisations delivering grassroots humanitarian aid.

The Hon. Speaker reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to inclusive humanitarian action and climate justice, calling for stronger legal protections and safe migration pathways for those displaced by climate change.

The Hon. Speaker also reiterated the Fijian Parliament’s support of the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS) and expressed a strong commitment to collaboration with fellow Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Pacific SIDS (PSIDS) Parliaments to champion equity, resilience, and co-ordinated global action.

“Let this Assembly spark bold, co-ordinated action – where dialogue leads to decisive progress,” Hon. Jitoko concluded.