PCRIC CEO Encourages Youths to be Empowered at USPSA Pacific Conference
During his chairing of a session at the recent Pacific Conference on Governance in Auckland, New Zealand, the Pacific Catastrophe Risk Insurance Company (PCRIC) CEO, Mr. Aholotu Palu, highlighted the paramount importance of engaging youth participation in regional policy dialogues and empowering them to take leadership roles within their respective communities to combat the profound challenges posed by climate change.
Drawing upon the findings of the 2021 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report, Mr. Palu reaffirmed the indisputable vulnerability of the Pacific region to the far-reaching consequences of climate change. He shared that, “We talk about inclusivity and sustainability for over many decades. Well, involving youth will complete the equation of negotiation to develop an effective solution that can address the impacts of climate change.”
“No doubt, there will be fresh perspectives, innovative ideas and the energy to push for transformative changes, shaping policies and at the same time create a sense of ownership, empowerment, and self-determination,” he continued. The PCRIC CEO noted that youth possess the capacity to reshape prevailing narratives and exert a profound influence by effectively conveying resolute messages to decision-makers, advocating for the changes they aspire to witness and experience.
Additionally, he stressed that the significance of youth comprehending the practical implications of the intersection between climate change and corruption extends beyond mere political rhetoric, emphasizing the need for concrete policy actions. It is imperative for youth to recognize that establishing effective governance mechanisms to combat corruption must be accompanied by the capacity to implement them. Without this mutually beneficial approach, the persistence of outdated practices remains unchanged.
Mr. Palu concluded his opening remarks by promoting collective action saying that, “We are only going to win this fight by working together with everyone’s involvement. Leadership is not about control, but service. It’s not about power, but empowerment. It’s not about manipulation, but inspiration.”
Image credit: The University of the South Pacific
