UK Addresses Urgent Challenges of Sea-Level Rise at High-Level Plenary Meeting

UK Welcomes UN Declaration on Sea-Level Rise

The United Kingdom has expressed its support for the recent adoption of the United Nations Declaration on Sea-Level Rise, extending gratitude to Australia and Cabo Verde for their leadership as co-facilitators in this significant initiative.

For numerous nations represented in this assembly, the issue of rising sea levels transcends mere theoretical concern; it is a current, pressing reality. This phenomenon is already impacting homes, livelihoods, and the futures of entire communities around the globe.

This declaration marks the first comprehensive political response from UN member states regarding sea-level rise, illustrating that the international community can unite to confront one of the most daunting challenges of our era. The adoption of this declaration serves as a powerful testament to international solidarity for those communities most vulnerable to its effects.

Commitment to Science and Adaptation

The United Kingdom is particularly pleased with the declaration’s foundation in robust scientific evidence and its acknowledgment of the myriad risks associated with sea-level rise. Furthermore, the emphasis on adaptation, resilience, and actionable cooperation is commendable and necessary for effective response strategies.

During the course of negotiations, the UK has engaged constructively to achieve a balanced outcome that reflects the priorities of small island developing states (SIDS) while safeguarding essential principles related to climate governance, finance, and international law.

We reaffirm the importance of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement as central to our collective efforts. The UK also acknowledges the critical legal implications of sea-level rise, such as the continuity of statehood and the integrity of maritime zones.

New Policy Initiatives for Vulnerable States

In recognition of the urgent and unparalleled threats faced by low-lying states due to rising sea levels, the UK has recently announced a significant policy shift aimed at ensuring the recognition of statehood. This commitment extends to situations where a state may lose part or all of its territory to sea-level rise; each case will be evaluated with consideration of the circumstances and the desires of the affected populations.

Additionally, the UK government has pledged £330 million towards the ninth replenishment of the Global Environment Facility (GEF), as announced by the Foreign Secretary earlier this week. This investment underscores our dedication to tackling global challenges, notably in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and curbing biodiversity loss, while enhancing support for vulnerable small island developing states and least developed countries (LDCs).

Turning Commitment into Action

The declaration represents a crucial step forward in addressing the challenges posed by sea-level rise. The next imperative is to convert our shared commitment into tangible action.

The communities most affected by rising sea levels deserve nothing less than a concerted and effective response to safeguard their futures.