‘We do in the spirit of togetherness’: stories of collective resilience, wellbeing and climate (im)mobility in the Pacific

Abstract

Collectivity is at the heart of resilience and wellbeing in the lived experience of those navigating climate (im)mobility in Oceania. The implications of collective resilience and wellbeing for development policy and practice, however, are still little understood given the under-representation of research drawing on the perspective and experience of those from places most disproportionately impacted by climate change. This article presents findings from a qualitative multigenerational family stories study amongst Pacific peoples – Moana or Indigenous peoples of Oceania – on their experiences of climate (im)mobility, resilience and wellbeing. This Pacific-led research involved researchers engaging with their own places, family or kin groups across six Pacific countries (Kiribati, PNG, Solomon Islands, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu). The findings illustrate collective resilience and wellbeing through connection to past generations, cultural ways of working together, practical adaptation, spirituality/faith and dealing with cultural erosion. Based on this study, it is recommended that, in addition to environmental sustainability, development policy and practice focus on cultural sustainability as well as ‘commoning’ through a relational ethics of care, in order to address future climate (im)mobility and to strengthen collective resilience and wellbeing across the Pacific.