UK Statement at the High-level Plenary Meeting to Address the Existential Threats Posed by Sea-level Rise

The United Kingdom welcomed the adoption of the UN Declaration on Sea-Level Rise, acknowledging its role as the first UN-wide political response to the crisis. The declaration reflects the urgency of sea-level rise as an ongoing reality for many nations, impacting homes, livelihoods, and entire communities. The UK highlighted the declaration’s foundation in scientific evidence and its emphasis on adaptation, resilience, and cooperative action. The statement underscored the importance of international support for the most vulnerable states facing existential threats from rising seas.

The UK emphasized its constructive role in negotiations, balancing the priorities of small island developing states with key principles of climate governance, finance, and international law. It reaffirmed the primacy of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement as the guiding frameworks for addressing sea-level rise. The statement also stressed the legal dimensions of the issue, including the continuity of statehood and maritime zones under international law.

The UK announced a policy shift to continue recognizing statehood for nations affected by sea-level rise, regardless of land loss. This commitment includes considering the circumstances of each case and the wishes of the affected populations. The policy aims to provide legal and political stability for states facing existential threats from rising sea levels.

The UK pledged £330 million to the ninth replenishment of the Global Environment Facility, reinforcing its commitment to global action. The funding will support efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, prevent biodiversity loss, and assist vulnerable small island developing states and least developed countries. The UK called for turning international commitments into practical, on-the-ground action to address the needs of communities most affected by sea-level rise.