The Government has signed a new partnership with the United Nations Office for Project Services aimed at strengthening Tonga’s capacity to address climate mobility and its wider implications for communities and development planning.
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed in Koror, Palau, on 1 September between the Government and UNOPS.
The agreement provides a framework for cooperation on climate mobility through the Pacific Climate Mobility Initiative, including the exchange of information and expertise and the development of initiatives to strengthen national and regional capacity.
Climate mobility is becoming an increasingly important issue for Pacific countries as climate change affects communities, livelihoods and long-term development planning. For Tonga, the issue could include the movement of communities affected by coastal erosion, sea-level rise, extreme weather and other climate-related pressures.
The MOU does not commit either party to specific projects or funding. Any activities arising from the agreement will require separate project agreements setting out responsibilities, activities and associated costs.
Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua, who is also Minister responsible for climate change, said the partnership strengthened Tonga’s engagement on climate mobility and created opportunities for greater cooperation with regional and international partners.
UNOPS administers the Global Centre for Climate Mobility, which supports regional initiatives including the Pacific Climate Mobility Initiative in collaboration with Pacific organisations, United Nations agencies and the World Bank.
The agreement establishes a basis for regular consultation and future cooperation, with specific projects expected to be considered separately.
The next question will be what practical programmes or support emerge from the partnership and how they may assist Tonga’s communities and national planning as climate risks continue to reshape the Pacific.
