• This final day was crucial for transforming the lessons shared throughout the week into concrete priorities. To achieve this, the day began with a presentation from Aruba, followed by breakout sessions. These sessions provided an opportunity for the OCTs and the youth from the OCT Youth Network to jointly define the next steps for enhancing climate financing. The participants worked on a common agenda, resulting in a series of recommendations for a high-level working group.

     

  • Session 12: Priorities for enhanced climate finance in OCTs

     

    • Insights from Juan E. Thijsen, representative of the Aruban Government to the European Union

    His presentation emphasized the urgency of simplifying access to climate finance for OCTs, framing it as a matter of survival rather than merely an economic issue. He highlighted the need for immediate action on climate change and the strengthening of the OCT community, noting that regional climate challenges must be addressed to ensure long-term self-sufficiency. Thijsen reiterated OCTA's commitment to collective action, pointing to upcoming events such as the OCT Forum in Aruba in 2025 and advocacy efforts planned for COP30 in Brazil. Stressing the power of unity, he underscored the importance of collaboration: "If you can connect people, you can connect the future."

    • Insights from Narcis Jeler, DG Climate Action, European Commission

    Narcis Jeler stressed the critical need to prioritize support for developing countries within the framework of the Paris Agreement. He highlighted the challenge of transparency, noting that while public finance plays an essential role, relying solely on it is not feasible. Jeler called on developed countries to lead by example and provide the necessary resources. He emphasized the importance of aligning financial flows with the Paris Agreement's objectives and addressing the specific needs of developing countries. Making Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) effective requires both public and private climate finance. He also touched on the growing concern of debt and the need for multilateral development banks (MDBs) to align their strategies, while underscoring that the EU should not act in isolation on this global issue.

     

    • Summary of the regional group sessions: three key priorities

    à Priority 1: Develop a new structure with dedicated governance to enhance technical expertise at the territorial level, with potential support from initiatives like the Climate Finance Access Network (CFAN).

    à Priority 2: Systematically integrate OCTs into regional programs whenever the EU and/or France contribute.

    à Priority 3: Ensure the ratification and implementation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) through regional organizations such as SPREP and the Pacific Community (CPS).

     

  • Session 13: Declaration and signing of a joint agenda for action!

     

    • UK Carib

    A central issue is eligibility, emphasizing the need for clearer criteria to access climate funds. Participants stressed the importance of raising awareness and creating a one-stop-shop to streamline support and simplify fund access processes. A notable example is the case of OCTs, which control one-third of the world's Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) — a fact that remains underrecognized and should be leveraged. Other priorities include exploring carbon tax credits and marketplace tools. The group also underscored the importance of presenting these arguments to the UK government, particularly highlighting the cost of inaction.

     

    • NL Carib

    The group emphasized the need for a revision of action points to allow OCTs to clearly define their needs and set specific objectives. A key takeaway was the importance of improved communication between member states and OCTs to foster a collective, coordinated effort. OCTs should not only define their needs but also attach a timeline and assign accountability to each action point. The group highlighted the challenge posed by the involvement of too many organizations, making the process complex. However, there was positive feedback on the establishment of a dedicated working group to streamline efforts.

     

    • UK Atlantic

    The discussions highlighted the need to address the isolation of OCTs by expanding funding beyond biodiversity to sectors like renewable energy, with calls for a dedicated Climate Action Facility. Current programs like Darwin and Blue Belt were acknowledged but seen as limited, and participants urged for simplified reportingmore technical assistance, and a bottom-up approach where OCTs define their needs. There was also interest in collaborative projects, especially in renewable energy, with the potential for experimental innovations and collective renewable goals across islands.

     

    • FR Pacific

    Participants underscored the importance of automatic eligibility for funding when dealing with EU resources. A preliminary stage was proposed to pre-validate grant application dossiers, suggesting a simplified grant/loan request document to determine eligibility before the full application process. Attendees suggested launching a study to create a fund independent of political mandate timelines, supported by dedicated governance to structure the facility and maintain advisors. The idea is to establish funds with dedicated governance and extended timelines, similar to those in place in the British Virgin Islands. Additionally, a platform for sharing feedback and experiences on how other OCTs have accessed and utilized such funds was recommended.

     

    • OCT Youth Network

    The existential threats facing OCTs were brought to light, with key economic sectors such as fisheries, coastal erosion, and rising sea levels endangering livelihoods and cultural heritage. The ongoing issues, such as the aftermath of Hurricane Irma, coral reef degradation in New Caledonia, and ice melting in Greenland, were highlighted as pressing concerns. The youth, who confront loss of education and reduced job opportunities, often find their engagement limited to advocacy roles. This forum provided a platform to discuss access to global finance, emphasizing the need to involve young people in decision-making. The participants called for enhanced collaboration between the EU and OCTs through regular dialogue and joint initiatives. They also urged the EU and financial institutions to increase funding by establishing dedicated climate funds for OCTs and advocated for the inclusion of youth in the decision-making process.

     

    • Anna Burylo, DG INTPA

    The vulnerability of OCTs, highlighted by frequent hurricanes, underscores the urgent need for robust support systems. The discussions emphasized the importance of creating an enabling environment with the necessary legal frameworks and bankable projects, which OCTs must provide. This process is being supported by the EU, financial institutions, and the private sector through initiatives like the Global Gateway, which seeks comprehensive, holistic solutions. The GO program stands as a crucial platform for sharing best practices, aiding in progress. The European Commission expressed its commitment to considering the forum's conclusions for future collaborative opportunities, particularly within the framework of the Global Gateway. Climate change, recognized as a global challenge, demands collective efforts and cannot be tackled alone. The EU supports the integration of OCTs into regional cooperation frameworks, with the issue of Sargassum underlining the necessity for collaborative solutions involving all stakeholders.