Listening to local voices: Tuvaluans respond to climate change

Climate change has become a permanent feature on the global media scene and in the decision-making of policy makers. The voices of academics, scientists, politicians and commentators dominate the climate change debate, yet local knowledges and beliefs, local realities, as well as local voices and actions are essential elements of navigating the way forward. Drawing on Paton's postgraduate research, this paper broadens the current dialogue by providing a platform for grassroots Tuvaluan voices to enter the climate change debate. It explores their local realities, knowledges and beliefs, and captures what Tuvaluans hold dear – factors which must play a central role in decision-making processes. To ensure the local population is fully mobilised, it will be argued that processes for engaging local voices must build on existing forums for engagement.