CLIMATE Change is a contributing issue that could potentially trigger conflict.

The Prime Minister Hon Manasseh Sogavare made the statement this week during the special session of the United Nations Peace Building Commission (UN PBC) in New York.

“Solomon Islands, like other Pacific Island countries, is at the forefront of the impacts of climate change.

“So far, we have already lost five islands as a result of sea level rise.

“We now have the burden of relocating people to other parts of country, mostly in and around urban centers that are already crowded.

“Such relocations could cause conflicts as people compete for land and other resources,” the Prime Minister said.

He then told the UN PBC that the Solomon Islands Government has developed and implemented adaptation programmes to mitigate the impact of climate change and natural disasters.

“But, we acknowledge that climate change is a global challenge that will also require global solutions.

“Solomon Islands is therefore committed to the Paris Agreement. Climate change is not just an environmental issue. It is also an economic, political, cultural and legal issue that has implications for sustainable peace.

“This week, during the Ocean Conference, you will hear from our colleagues from other Pacific Island countries about the significance of the Ocean to our countries.

“The vast Pacific Ocean is a source of revenue, food, security and identity for our island countries. It defines, connects and feeds us.

“We therefore need to conserve, maintain and sustainably use the ocean, and its resources in line with SDG 14,” Sogavare added.

He then told the UN PBC that failure to recognize the significance of the Ocean to Pacific Island Countries, including Solomon Islands, will have significant negative impact on our wellbeing.

“Chair and members of the Commission, as you can see, the challenges facing my country are daunting.

“It is precisely for this reason that I have requested an audience with you.

“The United Nations is uniquely positioned to support my country’s post conflict transition and we need the UN Peace Building Commission and the UN Peace Building Fund to assist my Government in this transition,” Prime Minister Sogavare said.

He then strongly stated that the people and Government of Solomon Islands want the UN PBC to help make Solomon Islands a model of success in building sustainable peace.