UNITED NATIONS — Grace Malie, a representative from Tuvalu, addresses a critical issue facing young people in her country as the threat of climate change looms large. The 25-year-old is confronting the uncomfortable conversation about the future of her homeland, which is gradually succumbing to rising sea levels. Should she stay on the diminishing high ground of Tuvalu or relocate to Australia, an option laid out by her government?
Speaking at a special U.N. General Assembly summit on sea-level rise, Malie reflects on the difficult choice that looms over an entire generation. “This is about agency,” says Kamal Amakrane, managing director of the Global Center for Climate Mobility, emphasizing that young individuals like Malie should not view this as giving up but rather as exercising their options.
Unlike those who are displaced by sudden climate disasters, the situation for Malie and others is unique, forcing them to contemplate a long-term decision about their future in a world where their land is gradually vanishing. “It’s a very difficult conversation, very emotional,” Malie explains. “Some of us wish to stay, while others, due to family considerations, might lean towards Australia.”
Malie, who thinks about the future of potential children, recognizes the gravity of her situation. “If I want them to have access to a safe and quality life, relocation is an option,” she admits. On the other hand, if she were to remain unattached, staying in Tuvalu might hold more appeal.
Tuvalu’s Climate Minister, Maina Talia, shares a similar emotional landscape, contemplating the impact of sea-level rise on his children. He fears that their identity may be jeopardized if they leave Tuvalu for more stable ground. “It’s an emotional thing to go through,” Talia underscores.
The summit’s discussions center around the pressing concept of “existential threat,” a phrase repeatedly cited by climate activists and small island nations. This term embodies the struggle for sovereignty and cultural identity, despite the loss of physical land. “Sovereignty is defined by the will of the people, not by the whims of climate change,” asserts Belize Prime Minister John Briceño, reinforcing the commitment to honor national identity no matter the external challenges.
Amakrane reiterates that the aim of the summit is to reaffirm the issue of sovereignty, even as the oceans rise. Despite the challenges, as Malie’s generation reaches adulthood, Tuvalu will still exist, though the landscape will likely change dramatically.
Being labeled as the “sinking island kids” during her studies in Fiji only fuels Malie’s determination to fight for her home. The reality of climate change’s slow encroachment has been a constant presence in her life, motivating her ongoing commitment to her homeland and its future.
