US Quits Climate Body: Pacific Nations Warn of Formal Process

The United States has declared its intention to withdraw from the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), an organization dedicated to environmental protection in the Pacific. SPREP plays a crucial role in assisting low-lying island states that face existential threats from rising sea levels, a direct consequence of climate change. The organization also focuses on pollution reduction and disaster preparedness across its member nations.

SPREP's director-general, Sefanaia Nawadra, emphasized that the U.S. must follow a formal process to exit the organization, which it has supported with funding and technical expertise. While acknowledging other partners would help sustain operations, Nawadra noted the full impact of the U.S. withdrawal remains to be determined. SPREP's annual budget is primarily supported by donor countries including Australia, Britain, New Zealand, France, and the U.S., with additional contributions from China.

This U.S. decision comes as Washington also plans to exit other international and UN entities. A Pacific Island government minister anonymously suggested the U.S. move could weaken its standing in the region, particularly as China expands its influence. Additionally, several Pacific Island nations, including Fiji, Vanuatu, Tuvalu, and Tonga, recently faced new U.S. entry requirements, such as costly visa bonds or restrictions.