Island Nations Require Equitable Representation in Global Climate Crisis Solutions, Minister Asserts

St. Kitts and Nevis Champions Ocean Conservation and Climate Resilience at UN Ocean Conference

The 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), held in Nice, France in June 2025, provided a critical platform for global leaders to address the pressing issues of ocean conservation, climate change, and sustainable development. St. Kitts and Nevis, a Small Island Developing State (SIDS) acutely vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, seized this opportunity to amplify its voice on the international stage. Led by the Hon. Dr. Joyelle Clarke, Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment, Climate Action and Constituency Empowerment, the Federation’s delegation actively engaged in high-level discussions, advocating for urgent action and global cooperation to protect vulnerable nations.

Minister Clarke’s participation in a Champion Leaders Luncheon, hosted by the Global Centre for Climate Mobility, highlighted the interconnectedness of climate change, ocean health, and human mobility. The luncheon brought together representatives from SIDS on the frontlines of the climate crisis, including St. Kitts and Nevis, Fiji, and Tuvalu. These nations shared their experiences and perspectives, emphasizing the existential threat posed by climate change and advocating for increased support and resources to address climate-induced migration and build resilience.

The Minister underscored the importance of SIDS representation in such global forums, emphasizing that climate change is not merely a theoretical concern but a daily reality for island nations. She conveyed the urgent need for global action, emphasizing that climate change is an existential threat to SIDS. She stressed the significance of these gatherings not only for sharing technical priorities but also for fostering solidarity and reminding the world of the human cost of climate change.

Minister Clarke also carried the message of Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, who, though unable to attend due to pressing obligations, reiterated his unwavering commitment to climate justice and ensuring St. Kitts and Nevis maintains an active and influential role on the world stage. This unified front demonstrates the nation’s commitment to advocating for its interests and contributing to global solutions.

St. Kitts and Nevis continues to champion the Sustainable Island State Agenda, advocating for urgent global reforms, increased financial support, and concrete action to protect vulnerable nations. Minister Clarke’s engagements in Nice reaffirmed the Federation’s leadership in these areas and showcased the government’s dedication to securing international partnerships that deliver tangible benefits for its people. The nation’s participation in UNOC3 reflects its commitment to ensuring that the voices of small island states are not only heard but also shape the global response to the climate crisis.

The Minister’s presence at UNOC3 extended beyond the Champion Leaders Luncheon. She actively participated in a series of high-level bilateral meetings, technical sessions, and negotiations focusing on critical aspects of ocean governance, blue economy cooperation, and climate finance for vulnerable island nations. These engagements provide opportunities to advance St. Kitts and Nevis’ priorities, build strategic alliances, and contribute to shaping international policy on these critical issues.

St. Kitts and Nevis’ active engagement at UNOC3 underscores the nation’s commitment to addressing the intertwined challenges of climate change, ocean health, and sustainable development. By participating in these global dialogues, the Federation aims to influence international policy, secure vital resources, and ultimately build a more resilient and sustainable future for its people. The Minister’s presence at UNOC3 serves as a testament to the government’s dedication to international cooperation and its unwavering pursuit of a more just and sustainable world.

The focus on climate mobility underscores the growing recognition of the displacement and migration pressures caused by climate change impacts, particularly on vulnerable populations in SIDS. St. Kitts and Nevis’ advocacy in this area aims to ensure that climate-induced migration is addressed with a human rights-based approach, providing support and protection for those displaced by climate change. This includes advocating for international frameworks and mechanisms to manage climate mobility effectively and equitably.

The emphasis on ocean protection highlights the crucial role of healthy oceans in supporting sustainable development and climate resilience. St. Kitts and Nevis recognizes the importance of preserving marine ecosystems, promoting sustainable fisheries management, and combating ocean pollution. The Federation’s participation in discussions on ocean governance and blue economy cooperation reflects its commitment to ensuring the long-term health and productivity of the world’s oceans.

St. Kitts and Nevis’ call for amplified financing for vulnerable island nations underscores the need for increased financial resources to support climate adaptation and resilience-building efforts. SIDS face disproportionate challenges in adapting to climate change impacts, and access to adequate financing is crucial for implementing effective adaptation measures. The Federation’s advocacy in this area aims to ensure that international climate finance mechanisms prioritize the needs of vulnerable nations and provide accessible and predictable funding streams.

The Minister’s participation in bilateral meetings and technical sessions provides opportunities to engage in deeper discussions on specific issues and explore potential partnerships for collaborative action. These engagements allow St. Kitts and Nevis to share its experiences, best practices, and priorities with other nations and international organizations, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing in the pursuit of sustainable development.

The Federation’s active role in negotiations on ocean governance, blue economy cooperation, and climate finance demonstrates its commitment to shaping international policy and ensuring that the voices of SIDS are heard in global decision-making processes. By contributing to these negotiations, St. Kitts and Nevis aims to promote policies that are equitable, effective, and responsive to the unique needs and vulnerabilities of island nations.