Summary

This paper investigates how Pacific Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are framed in the academic literature at the intersection of geopolitics and climate change. Findings highlight the strategic roles of Pacific SIDS in global climate diplomacy, demonstrating their proactive engagement despite significant structural constraints.

Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are distributed across three regions: the Caribbean, the Pacific, and the Atlantic, Indian Ocean, and South China Sea (AIMS). Among SIDS, Pacific SIDS play a particularly active role in global climate negotiations and regional geopolitics. The authors, Malaika Mikaelsson, Victoria Wibeck and Björn-Ola Linnér, are from the Department of Thematic Studies Environmental Change and the Centre for Climate Science and Policy Research, Linköping University, Sweden.

Key findings

• We review research on Pacific SIDS at the intersection of geopolitics and climate change.
• Findings highlight strategic roles of Pacific SIDS in global climate diplomacy.
• Pacific SIDS engagement in regional cooperation is seen as critical.
• There is a need for expanded research scope on Pacific SIDS and geopolitics.

Conclusion

The literature underscores how external perceptions and strategic interests of major powers often overshadow the existential threats facing these islands. At the same time, it emphasizes the agency of Pacific SIDS in advocating for climate finance, fostering regional cooperation, and pushing for inclusive governance structures.

This review critically examines the evolution of these discussions. It highlights the need for further research to broaden the scope beyond its current focus on the interactions of a limited number of large geopolitical key players with Pacific SIDS, and to further examine the resilience and agency of Pacific SIDS as they navigate the multifaceted impacts of climate change.