Strengthening the inclusion of i-Kiribati civic voices in migration and climate change policies

About the project

It is well understood that climate change represents the most serious challenge to the future of Pacific Island countries, threatening the displacement of entire populations. Low-lying atolls such as Kiribati are among the countries most vulnerable to its adverse impacts.

The Pacific Islands Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (PIANGO) will work closely with one of its members, the Kiribati Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (KANGO), in order to collaborate and dialogue with the i-Kiribati government to help shape policies that reflect the needs, priorities, and voices of local i-Kiribati communities on climate change and unavoidable climate impacts such as relocation. This will involve community consultations to identify priorities, research into current policies and practices, capacity building of i-Kiribati civil society organisations to conduct advocacy training for local communities, the production of policy briefs, and the convening of safe spaces for national policy dialogues between stakeholders.  PIANGO’s approach towards this project is one of accompaniment for local civil society organisations and communities at country level in order to strengthen local ownership.

As a result of the project, community-based organisations will be better informed on the needs and priorities of local communities; better equipped to conduct evidence-based advocacy; and better able to engage and influence policy. Most importantly, i-Kiribati communities will be in a better position to make more informed decisions on the issues of relocation, whether inside or outside of the country.