Excellencies, Ladies and Gentleman,

I am delighted to be back in New York and have the privilege of being here with all of you tonight.

Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to visit Vanuatu and Fiji to gain insights into the effects of climate change on small island communities in the Pacific.

Having grown up in Tasmania, I have always admired the breathtaking beauty of the Pacific Ocean, but I am also aware of its potential to pose a threat to homes and livelihoods.

During my time on Pele Island in Vanuatu, I met families who have witnessed the gradual transformation of the ocean into an existential danger to their community, livelihoods, and culture.

The coastline on this small and low-lying island has already undergone significant changes. The rising seawater level is contaminating the groundwater and in the dry season, there is often a shortage of drinking water.

The children on the island expressed their concerns about their future. Disturbingly, Pele Island is far from the only community facing these challenges.

Climate change affects every country in the world, and rising sea levels are particularly impacting coastal communities. This issue aggravates existing problems, with women and girls being disproportionately affected, especially in vulnerable contexts.

The impact of Sea level rise is felt at an alarming rate, especially in the low-lying atoll islands. These low-lying atoll countries and small island states are confronted with the unique dilemma of their land disappearing without any alternative options.

It is crucial that we come to an agreement on how to safeguard rights and cultural heritage, even if a country ceases to exist.

The Coalition on Addressing Sea-level rise and Existential Threats is dedicated to raising awareness, promoting knowledge, and finding solutions to the challenges posed by rising sea levels.

I am proud to be speaking here today, lending my support to this important cause, for which Denmark is an official and committed advocate.

Thank you.

(Det talte ord gælder)