Tabuya pushes for indigenous ocean leadership

Fiji's Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Lynda Tabuya, has strongly advocated for the inclusion of indigenous voices in all decisions concerning the ocean. Addressing the Neptune Forum in Paris ahead of World Oceans Day, Tabuya called for the establishment of genuine partnerships and meaningful participation of Indigenous peoples in ocean governance.

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Pacific Islanders are not merely stakeholders but rights holders whose traditional knowledge has helped sustain marine ecosystems for generations.

She stressed the importance of respecting Free, Prior and Informed Consent and providing stronger support for community-led ocean stewardship. Tabuya highlighted that Pacific Islanders are not merely stakeholders but rights holders, possessing traditional knowledge that has been crucial in sustaining marine ecosystems for generations.

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Decisions about the future of the ocean must be made with Indigenous communities, not for them.

"Decisions about the future of the ocean must be made with Indigenous communities, not for them," Tabuya stated. She added that the health of the world's oceans hinges on embracing all forms of knowledge. For Pacific people, the ocean is more than a resource; it is their heritage, provider, and an essential part of their identity.

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the health of the world’s oceans depends on embracing all forms of knowledge.