Small Island States demand climate action amid rising heat and food insecurity

The Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) has issued a warning to world leaders at the 81st United Nations General Assembly, stating that climate promises must be converted into concrete action and accessible financing. Representing the group, Lead Climate Change Negotiator Anne Rasmussen emphasized that the recent record-breaking heat and unprecedented sea-level rise mean that climate conditions can no longer be treated as ‘business as usual.’

AOSIS is calling for strict adherence to the 1.5°C global warming limit, the acceleration of the transition away from fossil fuels, and the delivery of climate financing to Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The group highlighted that Caribbean nations, including Trinidad and Tobago, are currently grappling with extreme heat and drought.

In the Southwest Indian Ocean, climate change is also driving food insecurity toward becoming an existential threat for island states. In Mauritius, high import dependence—with approximately 75 percent of food consumed being imported—leaves the population vulnerable to price shocks and climate-induced disruptions to agriculture and fisheries. These vulnerabilities are compounded by limited land and exposure to droughts, cyclones, and floods.