01/09/2026
The University of Fiji’s International Symposium on “Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies in the Asia-Pacific Region” turned attention to the lived experiences of communities facing some of Fiji’s greatest climate risks.
Nunia Bari presented “Staying, Adapting, or Moving? Community Perspectives on Climate Risk and Mobility in Fiji,” sharing findings from the Risk Index for Climate Displacement (RICD), a collaboration between The University of Fiji and the IOM Climate Mobility Innovation Lab.
Drawing on fieldwork across 10 communities in Ba and Macuata, the research explored how communities are experiencing climate risks including flooding, tropical cyclones, and coastal and riverbank erosion, while responding through adaptation, mobility and community-led initiatives.
The findings also highlighted the strength and resilience already present within communities—from local early warning systems and solesolevaki to environmental stewardship and locally driven adaptation efforts.
“Communities are not waiting to be saved, they are adapting now. They need partners, not prescriptions.”
The University of Fiji remains committed to research and partnerships that support evidence-based climate adaptation, disaster risk reduction and resilient communities across Fiji and the wider Pacific.
Vinaka vakalevu to all partners, communities and stakeholders who contributed to this important research.
