Climate Advocacy Must Be Backed by Evidence: A Path Forward for PNG

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Prime Minister James Marape’s plea for the United States to reconsider its withdrawal from the Paris Agreement reflects strong leadership and deep concern for Papua New Guinea (PNG) and its Pacific neighbors. Delivered at the World Economic Forum in Davos, the statement highlights the vulnerability of small island nations to climate change and appeals to the moral responsibility of larger nations to take action. While the Prime Minister’s remarks are a passionate call for global accountability, there is an opportunity to strengthen his message by incorporating evidence and leveraging the expertise of local institutions.

PNG has the potential to lead regional advocacy on climate change, but its efforts must be grounded in evidence and supported by strategic partnerships. Universities like the University of Papua New Guinea and Divine Word University, along with think tanks such as the National Research Institute, can play a crucial role in this endeavour. These institutions, in collaboration with government agencies like the Climate Change and Development Authority, should take the lead in conducting research on the environmental, economic, and social impacts of climate change in PNG. Their findings could provide Prime Minister Marape with the data and policy recommendations needed to make stronger, evidence-based arguments on the global stage.

Additionally, PNG’s public servants, who regularly attend international climate change meetings, have a responsibility to actively engage and bring back valuable insights. These forums offer access to cutting-edge research, global expertise, and potential partnerships. It is imperative that public servants not only participate but also report back with actionable advice. By gathering relevant data and presenting evidence-based insights, they can help ensure that the Prime Minister’s advocacy is informed, credible, and impactful.

For example, detailed evidence on the rate of sea-level rise, the economic costs of extreme weather events, and the financial burden of climate adaptation would not only highlight the disproportionate impacts of climate change on PNG but also demonstrate the urgency for global cooperation. With support from these institutions and experts, the Prime Minister’s statements could transition from moral appeals to substantial, data-driven arguments that demand attention on the international stage.

While urging the United States to reconsider its decision is important, PNG must also respect the sovereignty of other nations and explore alternative partnerships to address its climate challenges. China, for instance, has demonstrated significant leadership in renewable energy investments, climate adaptation projects, and international cooperation on environmental issues. By working closely with China, PNG could access funding, technical expertise, and collaborative research opportunities to build climate-resilient infrastructure and promote sustainable development.

Collaborating with China would align with PNG’s goals of strengthening its climate resilience and sustainable development, while diversifying its strategies. Such a partnership would provide practical solutions and reduce PNG’s reliance on a single global actor. Moreover, this approach would send a clear message that PNG is proactive and resourceful in addressing climate change, ready to forge partnerships wherever they may advance the country’s interests.

Prime Minister Marape’s leadership on this issue is commendable, but there is room to enhance PNG’s position by integrating evidence-based approaches, drawing on the expertise of local institutions, and empowering public servants to play a more active role. By combining moral authority with practical, data-driven strategies, PNG can position itself as a credible leader in the Pacific, capable of navigating the complexities of global climate negotiations while securing tangible benefits for its people and environment. This approach will not only strengthen PNG’s voice on the global stage but also ensure that its policies are both impactful and sustainable.

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