Intersection of human security and climate justice in the context of the least developed small island states in the Pacific Region: The case of Kiribati and Tuvalu

Kiribati and Tuvalu, despite contributing almost nothing to climate change, suffer its most severe consequences, making them among the most striking examples of global climate injustice. This thesis examines the policies developed by Kiribati and Tuvalu in the context of human security and climate justice. It also provides a detailed assessment of how United Nations-affiliated organizations address these concepts in relation to both countries. Furthermore, based on the similarities and differences in perspectives, the study offers recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of the mitigation and adaptation policies developed by Kiribati and Tuvalu in response to climate change. The research employs qualitative content analysis, with manual coding through MAXQDA. During the analysis process, three main themes were identified: the physical impacts of climate change, the factors exacerbating vulnerability, and adaptation, mitigation, and resilience. The interactions between these themes and human security were explored using multiple coding. Additionally, the study explores how the two fundamental dimensions of climate justice such as distributive justice and procedural justice are addressed in policy documents and reflected in national policy frameworks. While previous studies have examined the Pacific Islands, this thesis makes a unique contribution by conducting a comparative analysis of national documents and United Nations reports. Through detailed content analysis, the study reveals critical gaps in these countries' climate policies as well as the shortcomings of the solutions proposed by the United Nations. In this context, the thesis seeks to enhance the understanding of Kiribati and Tuvalu's position within global climate governance and contribute to the development of more effective policy recommendations. Findings shows that Kiribati and Tuvalu face largely similar challenges. Weak state capacity, geographical constraints, dependence on external actors, and high population density emerge as key factors increasing their vulnerability to climate change. Furthermore, a lack of education and awareness, limited individual and community participation, and socioeconomic conditions significantly hinder the ability of local populations to cope with climate change. Another important finding of this study is that the requirements for adaptation, mitigation, and resilience in both countries are remarkably similar. In this context, strengthening state capacity, empowering individuals and communities, and ensuring access to international climate finance and technical support are crucial. Although both countries have developed various adaptation strategies through national and international mechanisms, solutions proposed at United Nations level often remain superficial. United Nations reports fail to adequately consider the specific conditions of Kiribati and Tuvalu, particularly overlooking critical issues such as climate-induced migration, institutional coordination, and international climate justice. Considering these findings, this thesis calls for a more comprehensive examination of the climate challenges faced by Kiribati and Tuvalu and advocates for the development of more effective policies tailored to their unique conditions. Keywords: Human Security, Climate Justice, Vulnerability, Resilience