The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has highlighted the importance of Pacific-led approaches to climate mobility through a side event at the Pacific Innovation Forum on Climate and Environment (PIFCE) 2026 in Vanuatu.

Held under the theme “Turning Loss and Damage into Action,” the session focused on “Pacific Guidance on Internal Planned Relocation: A Decolonized Approach Rooted in Pacific Values,” exploring how communities can respond to climate-related displacement while protecting culture, identity and social connections.

The event builds on IOM’s continued support for the Pacific Regional Framework on Climate Mobility through initiatives such as peer exchanges on planned relocation, policy assistance for countries including the Marshall Islands, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Tonga and Vanuatu, as well as capacity building for governments and civil society organisations.

PIFCE 2026, hosted by the Government of Vanuatu, brings together Pacific governments, communities, businesses and innovators to develop solutions for climate resilience and environmental action.

Opening the forum, Vanuatu Prime Minister Jotham Napat said the gathering was focused on moving from discussions about climate challenges towards practical solutions and positioning the Pacific as a leader in climate innovation.

The IOM session examined internal planned relocation as one of the major impacts of climate change, particularly addressing non-economic losses while ensuring relocation processes protect traditional connections to land, culture and communities.

The hybrid discussion was co-moderated by IOM Planned Relocation Advisor Dr. Merewalesi Yee and Santiago Network Small Island Developing States Desk Officer Nacanieli Bolo.

It brought together experts and community representatives from Fiji, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, with additional virtual contributions from Dr. Anna Naupa of the Pacific Security College.

Speakers highlighted that relocation must be centred around communities and guided by Pacific values, including vanua, kinship, collective decision-making and respect for customary land ownership.

Permanent Secretary of Solomon Islands’ Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology, David Hiba Hiriasia, stressed that planned relocation is about protecting culture and values rather than simply developing new areas.

The event concluded with discussions on strengthening support for relocated communities, recognising slow-onset climate impacts and ensuring long-term wellbeing through inclusive and dignified approaches.

Alongside the session, IOM hosted an exhibition booth featuring interactive learning tools, including climate mobility activities, Human Security Jenga and a disaster preparedness board game to engage participants on climate resilience issues.