The fourth annual meeting of the Global Council for Political Renewal (GCPR) was held in Cape Town recently, bringing together Prime Ministers and Deputy Prime Ministers, Speakers, political party leaders, ministers, diplomats, academics and civil society representatives from around the world.
Discussions focused on pressing global challenges including democratic governance, human rights and humanitarian relief, environmental threats, equitable development and global peace.
Fiji was represented in the Leaders’ Session by Member of Parliament Prof Biman Prasad, who addressed democracy, economic development in small island states and the future of multilateralism amid growing global uncertainty.
Prof Prasad said small states in the Blue Pacific are facing increasing insecurity, fiscal pressures and intensifying climate impacts at a time when cooperative multilateralism is under strain.
He stressed that international systems must evolve to better reflect the realities and vulnerabilities of small island developing states.
He reaffirmed that the Blue Pacific would not remain a passive observer in the changing global order, noting that the region is united in protecting its sovereignty, strengthening democratic institutions and improving the wellbeing of its people.
He highlighted the declaration of the Blue Pacific as an Ocean of Peace, led by Sitiveni Rabuka, as a clear demonstration of the region’s commitment to international law, stability and unity.
Prof Prasad called on global partners to support greater access to climate finance, increased concessional funding for critical infrastructure, and reforms to the international financial system that recognise the unique circumstances of small states. He also urged renewed commitment to a fair, rules-based multilateral system.
“The Pacific Ocean is our home and the Blue Pacific is our future,” he said, adding that the region will continue to advocate for fairness and stability.
He also encouraged support for the Pacific Resilience Facility and invited global leaders to witness firsthand the climate frontline as the Pacific prepares to host pre-COP31 later this year.
