President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has warned that rising sea levels pose a significant risk to the economic development of low-lying and small island nations. His remarks came during the High-Level Meeting on Sea Level Rise at the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.
In his address, President Muizzu emphasised the current climate emergency and its impact on the livelihoods, culture, heritage, and economies of countries like the Maldives. He outlined three urgent actions necessary to address these challenges.
The President called for a doubling of adaptation financing to bridge the gap between mitigation and adaptation efforts. He urged the removal of cumbersome approval processes and advocated for financing based on the specific needs of vulnerable nations.
Additionally, he stressed the need for more robust funding to support nations in responding to climate-induced disasters, emphasising that effective deployment of the Loss and Damage Fund is crucial for vulnerable countries. The President highlighted the importance of transferring technology from advanced economies to small island states, advocating for favorable terms that would enhance local capacity to combat climate change.
Reflecting on past events, such as the inundation of Malé in 1987, the President reiterated the Maldives’ unwavering commitment to climate action. He noted that, despite limited resources, the drive to survive and thrive is deeply embedded in the nation’s identity and history.
The high-level meeting, following the Summit of the Future, aims to foster a common understanding, mobilize political leadership, and promote multisectoral collaboration to address the threats posed by sea-level rise. It seeks to deliver actionable solutions for affected states and frontline communities, marking a significant step forward in enhancing global action on this critical issue.