As the world grapples with the escalating impacts of climate change, former UN climate chief Christiana Figueres has sounded the alarm on the profound health implications of sea-level rise. Announced as co-chair of a Lancet Commission, Figueres aims to scrutinise how rising tides threaten health and exacerbate inequality, calling the situation “the mother of all injustices.” The commission is set to report its findings by September 2027, amid growing concerns that vulnerable nations, particularly in the Pacific, face dire futures.
Climate Change: A Health Crisis
In a stark reflection of the current global climate crisis, Figueres emphasised that communities worldwide are being “held hostage” by their reliance on fossil fuels. This dependency not only fuels geopolitical instability but also directly impacts health, particularly in regions most affected by climate change. The commission will explore legal avenues to hold polluting nations accountable for the health ramifications of their actions.
Figueres remarked, “We in the climate community are very guilty of explaining things in way too esoteric terms, as though climate change were something that is not happening now.” By framing the issue through the lens of health, dignity, and cultural identity, she insists that we can better comprehend the urgency of reducing emissions.
The Pacific Islands at Risk
The plight of Pacific island nations, such as Tuvalu, Kiribati, and Fiji, is particularly alarming. Many of these nations are situated less than three metres above sea level, making them highly susceptible to rising oceans. Sea-level rise leads to contaminated drinking water, damaged food sources, and the forced relocation of entire communities. Recent research has suggested that previous estimates of sea-level rise may have been understated, with some areas in the global south potentially facing increases of up to 150 centimetres.
In light of these challenges, Pacific island health ministers are advocating for a stronger global focus on climate change as an issue of health and justice. Figueres has highlighted the emotional toll of displacement, stating, “Can you imagine the pain of having to leave the bones of ancestors?” This intergenerational trauma is felt acutely as communities are uprooted in search of safety from rising waters.
Legal Accountability and Future Actions
The Lancet Commission will also investigate how to hold major polluters accountable for the irreversible damage inflicted on nations that contribute the least to climate change. In a landmark advisory opinion issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 2025, it was determined that countries have a legal obligation to prevent climate harm. Figueres believes this opinion could pave the way for increased climate litigation and significant claims against those responsible for emissions.
However, challenges remain. Figueres noted that despite legally binding agreements, compliance is not guaranteed, as evidenced by Canada’s withdrawal from the Kyoto Protocol. She advocates for a multifaceted approach to change, combining legal pressure and scientific evidence with an appeal to the self-interest of both governments and corporations.
The Path Forward
Looking ahead, Vanuatu will spearhead a UN General Assembly resolution in May aimed at upholding the ICJ’s opinion, a move that could influence global climate policy. Yet, experts warn of potential resistance from states seeking to block discussions on fossil fuel accountability.
Figueres is adamant that understanding the consequences of inaction is crucial for motivating change. “Companies should understand for their business continuation, they should reduce emissions,” she stated, arguing that economic stability relies on action against climate change.
Why it Matters
The health and wellbeing of millions hang in the balance as climate change continues to reshape our world. The work of the Lancet Commission under Christiana Figueres is not merely academic; it represents a critical effort to confront the injustices faced by the most vulnerable communities. As sea levels rise, so too does the urgency for accountability and action, ensuring that the health crisis we are witnessing today does not become a catastrophe for future generations. The outcomes of this commission could lead to significant shifts in both policy and public perception, making it essential for all of us to engage with these pressing issues.
