HIGHLIGHTS: Civil Society Engagement at the 2025 Pacific Islands Forum, Honiara скачать в хорошем качестве

HIGHLIGHTS: Civil Society Engagement at the 2025 Pacific Islands Forum, Honiara

“Waka Nao! Yumi Tugeda for Fiusa Blo Blu Pasifika” Civil Society Engagement at the 2025 Pacific Islands Forum, Honiara In the lead-up to the 2025 Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Honiara, Solomon Islands, a two-day People’s Forum was held on 4 and 5 September, bringing together over 100 civil society and community-based organisations from across Solomon Islands and the wider Pacific region. Held under the theme “Waka Nao! Yumi Tugeda for Fiusa Blo Blu Pasifika”, the forum served as a platform for civil society to present coordinated recommendations ahead of the Civil Society Leaders Dialogue. The People’s Forum was supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), which reaffirmed its role in strengthening civic space in the region. Participants reiterated their commitment to the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent and the Solomon Islands National Development Strategy (2016–2035). A central message throughout the forum was the call for inclusive, accountable, and community-driven development. The phrase “Man, talem duim” (walk the talk) captured participants' call for meaningful leadership and action. Discussions were structured around seven thematic areas, which were captured in the final communique: Political Leadership – Inclusion of CSOs in policy-making, enhanced transparency, civic education, and participation of youth and persons with disabilities. People-Centred Development – Investment in youth-led initiatives, health systems, gender-sensitive planning, and social protection. Peace & Security – Strengthening voter education, anti-corruption efforts, and addressing organised crime and resource exploitation. Economic Development – Calls to withdraw the 2025 Mineral Resource Bill, protect forests, and support inclusive economic opportunities. Climate Change & Disaster Resilience – Community-led relocation, gender-inclusive adaptation, and integration of traditional knowledge with science. Ocean Stewardship – Advocacy for nuclear justice, moratoriums on seabed mining, and sustainable conservation financing. Technology & Connectivity – Expanding digital access, civic technology, and inclusive CSO engagement. The forum concluded with the formal handover of the CSO Communique to Pacific Islands Forum Chair, Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, during the Civil Society Leaders Dialogue reinforcing the collective call for communities to be central in shaping a resilient and inclusive Pacific future. #ADbandCivilSociety #Pacific