Climate change continues to be a major challenge for the members of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG), affecting food, water and health security, as well as driving loss, damage and displacement for many Melanesian communities.
This is a concern that has been repeatedly emphasized throughout a series of MSG country consultations held from 2025 to 2026, as views were sought about the development of subregional initiatives to be managed through the MSG Secretariat’s Project Coordination and Management Unit (PCMU).
The country consultations take forward the decisions of the 23rd MSG Leaders’ Summit held in Suva, Fiji in June 2025, which called for greater collaboration between the MSG Secretariat, development partners and regional organizations and also welcomed the advancement of a Yut4Melanesia project.
In the latest Member consultations, held in Noumea, New Caledonia in August 2026, the PCMU team, led by Mr Johnston Riven, engaged closely with community-based organisations, the Noumea city council and the FLNKS to discuss priorities for a subregional initiative.
Discussions highlighted significant socio-economic challenges for the indigenous Melanesian population, and explored opportunities for inclusive approaches to support women and youth empowerment. Upskilling youth, economic empowerment for women in small business, training and employment pathways were key messages heard, alongside many examples shared about the negative impacts of climate change on life in Kanaky New Caledonia.
The MSG Secretariat sincerely acknowledges all participating ministries, departments, city councils and the FLNKS Bureau for their unwavering commitment, collaboration and continued support throughout this important process.
An advanced subregional strategy design for collaborative sustainable development initiatives will be tabled to Members in subsequent MSG governing board meetings.
Together, we are strengthening subregional cooperation and shaping programmes that reflect the priorities of our Melanesian communities.
