Living on a tropical island can be truly wonderful, especially when you don't have to worry about drought: the climate is mild all year round, there are beaches full of life, jungles with a multitude of plants and animals unique in the world... However, due to climate change, can also be dangerous.
Vanuatu is a Melanesian archipelago facing severe threats from climate change. Sea level is rising faster there than anywhere else in the world, with an average of 6 millimeters per year since 1993 (a total of 11 centimeters), while in other regions the average is between 2,8 and 3,6 mm per year. This phenomenon seriously threatens the existence of this magnificent country in the South Pacific. To learn more about the effects that climate change has on different regions, you can consult the article on the vulnerability of the Mediterranean to climate change.
As reported by GreenpeaceActor and model Jon Kortajarena has participated in expeditions to Vanuatu to understand firsthand what it's like to live there, visiting communities that have had to relocate due to rising sea levels. Currently, 100,000 people are in danger due to this phenomenonThis situation is a clear example of how climate change affects vulnerable communities, as mentioned in the analysis on children affected by climate change.
However, rising sea levels are not the only problem facing Vanuatu. Tropical storms are another significant threat, affecting approximately 30,000 peopleThis means that nearly half of Vanuatu's population is exposed to natural disasters each year, which is closely related to the number of cities that could disappear due to global warming. To better understand the disasters that can occur in vulnerable regions, you can read about the worst natural disasters of 2016.
Greenpeace spokesperson Pilar Marcos said: "This is not about being alarmist, but scientists warn that we are running out of time. If appropriate measures are not taken before 2020, it will be increasingly difficult to prevent the planet's temperature from rising above 1,5°C.This is the threshold beyond which the worst events caused by climate change are likely to occur.
In the energy context, it has been observed that in 2011, 34% of the energy demanded in Vanuatu came from renewable sources, and this figure is expected to reach 2030% by 100. This raises a troubling question: do humans really only engage effectively when directly confronted with a problem? If this trend continues, it will be difficult for planet Earth to remain so beautiful for future generations. Climate change is a challenge that many nations must address, as noted in the analysis on the need for technology for farmers in the face of climate change.
The current situation in Vanuatu and its international response
The situation in Vanuatu has led to intense international mobilization. The country has become a symbol of the fight against climate change, not only because of its vulnerability, but also because of its role in international climate diplomacy. In this context, Vanuatu has launched an initiative before the International Court of Justice (CIJ) so that the obligations of States in relation to global warming are recognized.
The ICJ has been convened to clarify countries' responsibilities regarding climate change and the consequences faced by those who fail to meet their obligations. This request was supported by the organization Pacific Island Students Fighting Climate Change, which highlights the urgency of addressing the climate crisis, especially for small island developing states, an issue that relates to Cities that could disappear due to global warming.
On March 29, 2023, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution A/RES/77/276, supported by 132 countries, requesting an advisory opinion from the ICJ on the obligation of States to protect the environment and human rights in the face of climate change. This resolution is crucial, as it is based on fundamental principles of international law. Vanuatu's voice stands as a strong reminder of international justice in matters of climate change.
The ICJ hearings, which took place from December 2 to 13, 2024, were a historic moment. With the participation of 97 States and 11 international organizations, this is considered the largest submission ever before an international tribunal. The hearings focus on two key questions: What are the obligations of States to protect the climate system for present and future generations? y What legal consequences do States face whose actions or omissions have caused significant damage to the climate system?
The threats faced by Vanuatu
Vanuatu experiences extreme weather events more frequently than most countries. Ocean acidification, rising sea temperatures, and changing rainfall patterns are leading to a natural resource crisis. For example, freshwater sources are becoming increasingly scarce, and water salinization is a growing problem. This affects crops and fisheries, posing a direct threat to the food security of local communities. It is alarming how climate change affects not only Vanuatu, but also other ecosystems, as discussed in the article on the adaptation of plants to climate change, which is also a challenge for Vanuatu.
Furthermore, rising sea levels and coastal erosion are forcing many coastal communities to abandon their homes. Some inhabitants have already had to migrate to other islands or even other countries, putting their culture and traditions at risk. The situation in Vanuatu serves as an example of how climate change can lead to forced migration, a phenomenon with global repercussions and affecting many nations, as mentioned in the analyses on the differences between climate change and global warming.
For some years now, relocation plans have begun to be implemented, but experience on the ground suggests that these decisions are not easy to implement. Communities face emotional, cultural, and logistical challenges, which complicate the process of adapting to climate change. In this context, it is relevant to consider how climate change affects the health of pregnant women, as mentioned in the article on the effects on pregnant women.
Future prospects for Vanuatu
Vanuatu's future depends largely on international action against climate change. Although the country is one of the lowest emitters of greenhouse gases, its situation illustrates the global injustice of climate change: The countries that contribute the least to global warming are those that suffer the most from its effects.This reflects a criticism of the international system that urgently needs to be addressed.
Initiatives like the one Vanuatu filed with the ICJ could set a precedent in international law, establishing a framework that holds large emitters accountable. This is essential not only for Vanuatu, but for all small island states facing the devastating effects of climate change. It is critical that the world become aware of how global warming is affecting natural resources, as can be seen from the analysis on deserts threatened by global warming.
Mobility and the shift toward a more sustainable economy are central to Vanuatu's agenda. For example, its national development plan focuses on improving climate resilience, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and increasing investment in renewable energy sources. To learn more about the challenges it faces, it's relevant to review how cities like Miami could be affected, as mentioned in the article on Flood risks in Miami.
In addition, adaptation strategies that involve local communities in decision-making are being implemented. These initiatives are vital to ensuring that residents' voices are heard and that solutions are appropriate to their needs. Adaptation is essential to mitigating the effects of climate change, as described in the article on investment in green infrastructure.
However, this will not be enough without a firm commitment from the international community. Failure to act on the part of major emitting countries could mean the demise of entire nations, as has been seen in the case of Vanuatu and other Pacific island states.
Vanuatu's struggle is a reminder that climate change is a human rights issue. Vulnerable communities have the right to live in a healthy environment and enjoy the resources they need to thrive. International pressure on major powers must increase, and climate justice must become a fundamental pillar of global governance.
The situation in Vanuatu highlights one of the most important struggles of the 21st century. The combination of climate vulnerability and the fight for global justice is a challenge that must be urgently addressed. Decisions made today will influence the lives of millions in the future.
