Port Moresby – As climate change continues to impact communities across the Pacific, Papua New Guinea is taking proactive steps to address climate-induced displacement. This week, the Climate Change & Development Authority (CCDA), in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), International Labour Organization (ILO) and key stakeholders, convened the Third Inter-Departmental Working Group Meeting on Climate Mobility (IWG-CM) from March 10 to 13, 2025, at Lamana Hotel, NCD. 

Supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade under the Pacific Climate Change Migration and Human Security (PCCMHS) Phase II Programme, this initiative seeks to strengthen PNG’s capacity to manage climate mobility through policy development, knowledge-sharing, and partnerships. 

The Third IWG-CM was the latest in a series of meetings organized under the Pacific Climate Change Migration and Human Security (PCCMHS) Phase II Programme. This initiative supports Papua New Guinea's ongoing efforts to develop a comprehensive approach to climate mobility.  

Alongside the IWG-CM meeting, a Climate Mobility Training was facilitated by IOM’s Technical Team from Fiji. This training introduced participants to the Pacific Regional Framework on Climate Mobility, endorsed by Pacific Island Forum Leaders in 2023. Through interactive discussions and scenario-based exercises, government officials, UN agencies, civil society organizations, and other key partners explored the challenges and opportunities surrounding climate-induced migration in Papua New Guinea. 

Acknowledging the complexities and challenges at hand, Mr. Jacob Ekinye, General Manager for Adaptation and Projects at the Climate Change Development Authority, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing policy gaps on planned relocation through a comprehensive, whole-of-government approach. “This initiative aims to support atoll and island communities in enhancing resilience and developing effective adaptation measures,” he stated. 

By bringing together key stakeholders, the meeting aimed to strengthen collaboration and enhance Papua New Guinea’s capacity to address climate-induced displacement and develop effective adaptation strategies. Input from diverse participants will help ensure that communities affected by climate change are protected, empowered, and supported through well-informed policies and coordinated action. 

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For media inquiries, please contact: 

Anne Mandal, Tel: +91-9902608725, Email: amandal@iom.int