Climate change and COP23

While it's been reportedly hot and dry at unprecedented levels in the western division, the central continues to be very rainy and wet. Meanwhile, back in Bonn, Germany, it's extremely cold and freezing.

Weather aberration is a typical component of climate change apart from ocean acidification, rise in sea level and water scarcity to name a few.

COP23 commences today, November 6, 2017, and continues for a fortnight.

The United Nations Framework on Climate Change (UNFCCC) negotiation processes among nations is not as simple as we anticipate.

History has indicated that bigger and industrialised states tend to 'bulldoze' their way into negotiations making smaller, underdeveloped and developing states helpless in their defence because of the lack of much needed expertise and effective influences.

However, Fiji's Presidency at COP23 enriched with the Pacific Voice of solidarity, grand coalition with other like-minded states, civil society and non-governmental organisation's, and the Pacific Photo Exhibitions among other mechanisms, I am certain that there are sufficient leverages on the importance of the Paris Agreement to the rest of the world. Perhaps what will have a lasting impact at this UN Climate Change Conference will come from our two young national oratory winners and ambassadors on climate change, Timoci Naulusala (Naivicula District School, Tailevu) and Shalvi Shakshi (Nasarawaqa Primary School, Bua) when both will deliver strong messages on the realities of climate change and share their respective experiences during and after tropical cyclone Winston. Congratulations once again to these two "future leaders of tomorrow" and our best wishes and support for their contribution to COP23. Finally, I wish the COP23 Presidency, delegates, attendees and volunteers the very best for the days ahead with the ultimate hope of a successful outcome.

May God bless us all.

Spencer Robinson, Suva