Pacific Islands Forum Ministers Support Australia to Host COP31 as ‘Pacific COP’

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Pacific Islands Forum Foreign Ministers have formally backed Australia’s bid to host the 31st Conference of the Parties (COP31) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in 2026, proposing it be recognized as a “Pacific COP” to highlight the region’s unique climate challenges. The endorsement reflects a regional partnership and a commitment to ensuring Pacific representation in global discussions.

Announced on August 22, 2025, the ministers emphasized that environmental changes pose significant risks to the livelihoods, security, and well-being of Pacific communities. They noted that environmental shifts, including rising sea levels and extreme weather events, are affecting development efforts and the region’s long-term stability. The ministers highlighted that hosting COP31 in partnership with Australia supports the broader Pacific Leaders’ Vision for 2050, providing an opportunity to raise regional concerns on an international stage.

The ministers reaffirmed their commitment to advocate for vulnerable countries and push for global initiatives that address their environmental challenges. They underscored the importance of supporting countries most affected by climate change, particularly small island developing states and low-lying nations. Regional initiatives such as the Pacific Resilience Facility were cited as models for coordinated action, demonstrating the capacity of Pacific nations to contribute meaningfully to global climate solutions.

Australia and Turkey have both submitted bids to host COP31, with the final decision expected at COP30 in Belém, Brazil, in November 2025. The United Nations climate chief has urged both countries to resolve the hosting dispute promptly, noting that delays create uncertainty and undermine international planning efforts. The Pacific Islands Forum’s endorsement of Australia’s bid is positioned as a call to recognize the specific needs of Pacific nations and the urgency of addressing their climate vulnerabilities.

Australia’s proposal seeks to partner with Pacific Island nations to ensure their experiences and challenges are central to the conference agenda. Forum ministers stressed that the event should reflect the realities of countries facing existential threats from climate change, providing a platform for their perspectives to influence global commitments and decisions. By framing COP31 as a “Pacific COP,” ministers hope to ensure the outcomes prioritize regional adaptation, resilience, and financial support.

The ministers noted that effective action requires international cooperation and concrete commitments. Hosting COP31 in Australia with a Pacific focus is expected to draw international attention to the disproportionate impact of climate change on small island states and to encourage stronger financial and technical support from wealthier nations.

As COP31 preparations advance, the Pacific Islands Forum’s backing of Australia illustrates the region’s determination to lead on climate advocacy. The unified position reinforces the importance of integrating Pacific concerns into global negotiations and elevates the visibility of small island and low-lying nations in shaping international climate policy. ​​ Ministers and regional leaders have called for decisive action at the conference to help safeguard the livelihoods, cultures, and futures of Pacific communities.