NASSAU, Bahamas, CMC—Prime Minister Phillip Davis says while the Bahamas’ aspirations remain unchanged—to stand as a free nation bound by neither fear nor force—climate change is threatening the country’s very sovereignty.
“For us, climate change is no distant concern, no matter for future generations alone; it is the here and now, an ever-rising tide that threatens to wash away the home (former prime minister)Sir Lynden spoke of so fervently,” Davis said as he addressed the 10th Annual Diplomatic Week.
Davis said that in the struggle for climate justice, The Bahamas stands as a voice for the vulnerable, a champion of those who, like Nassau, seek only to secure the lives and futures of its people.
“We fight for a world where those responsible for this crisis answer for the loss and damages felt by those who contributed least to its cause. Thus, we turn to the law, seeking justice from the courts that guardians humanity’s conscience.”
Davis said that the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is now poised to deliver an advisory opinion on climate change, a ruling that the country believes will echo across borders and demand accountability.
“This is not about treaties and pledges; it is about moral reckoning, an acknowledgment that those who have sown the seeds of destruction must also reap the responsibility to repair.
“For too long, our islands and countless others have borne the burden of “loss and damage” inflicted by climate change: land eroded, homes destroyed, livelihoods swept away in storms more violent, more frequent than any our ancestors could have foreseen.”
Prime Minister Davis said that the loss is not only material but spiritual and “a threat to our culture, heritage, and identity as a people of the sea.
“We seek not charity but justice, a clear and binding recognition that those who have profited from the destruction of our world must also contribute to its healing. And here lies the power and purpose of diplomacy
“In every hall of power, every forum, we carry the voices of our people and the stories of our shores. Diplomacy is our shield and voice, reminding the world that we may be small, but our challenges are universal.”
He told the diplomats that they are being called upon to advocate and educate, to speak plainly of the country’s impacts, and to rally the world toward action.
“Our diplomats stand not merely as representatives of The Bahamas but as advocates of all who stand to lose everything from inaction. To our diplomatic corps, I say this: your work is not only to bridge our borders but to defend the dignity and future of our nation. In you, the Bahamian people see their hopes carried forth, their challenges made known, and their voices amplified.”
Prime Minister Davis said that through diplomacy, the government insists that The Bahamas and all small island nations shall not be mere bystanders but leaders in crafting a sustainable and equitable future.
“Let it be known: The Bahamas will not be a silent spectator in this struggle. We are neither large in the land nor might, but an unyielding resolve binds us. We will wield the law as our shield and justice as our sword, joining hands with other nations who refuse to be casualties of indifference.
“For the duty to protect this world is one we all share, but the responsibility lies heaviest on those who have brought it to the edge.”
Prime Minister Davis also said that the country must be candid in addressing trade, noting that The Bahamas has, for too long, relied on a narrow set of industries to fuel its economy.
“While these sectors have served us well, the time has come to diversify and strengthen our economic foundations. Trade is not just a matter of economic theory; it is about creating real, sustainable opportunities to withstand global uncertainty storms.
“Our commitment to diversifying trade is not a singular ambition but a necessity. The Office of the Prime Minister has taken this challenge on with a comprehensive approach, fully aware that a resilient Bahamas must tap into the potential of all its industries and regions.”
He said the strategy demands intentional efforts to develop the country’s trade policy, empower entrepreneurs, and streamline systems that attract and retain investment.
“Our work aims to open new pathways for Bahamian businesses, whether through export, manufacturing, or tech-driven enterprise,” he said, adding, “In this endeavor, we owe a great debt of gratitude to the National Trade Commission, whose dedication and expertise have been instrumental in crafting a trade policy that aligns with our national vision.”
Prime Minister Davis said they have worked tirelessly to evaluate trade agreements, recommend best practices, and advocate for trade policies that put Bahamians first.
He told the foreign service representatives that their role is crucial, adding, “The relationships you build and the investments you help secure are integral to diversifying and sustaining building a bridge to a more resilient Bahamas, one where our people can thrive across industries, not just in a select few.”
As the country looks toward Freeport and other emerging trade zones, he said, “We see a vision where Bahamian ports become bustling hubs of international commerce, where local businesses and foreign investors benefit from our strategic location.
“We envision an economy that is more than resilient; it is adaptive, sustainable, and inclusive, offering prosperity and security for all Bahamians.
“The future of our trade must reflect the strength and diversity of our people. It is a future in which Bahamian goods, ideas, and services reach global markets, lifting our economy from within,” Prime Minister Davis added.
He said the Bahamas is focused on strengthening diplomatic relationships with the South Pacific, adding, “Together, we face pressing issues like climate resilience, sustainable development, and ocean preservation.
“By building closer ties with South Pacific nations, The Bahamas aims to enhance cooperation in these critical areas, fostering partnerships that will support our immediate needs and long-term stability.”
He said the Bahamas will seek the support of its international partners next year for its candidature to the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
“As a small island state with a solid commitment to sustainable maritime practices, we bring a critical perspective on maritime security and ocean conservation issues.
“Our goal at the IMO is to advocate for policies that serve the interests of all coastal nations, ensuring that ocean resources are managed responsibly and sustainably. We look forward to engaging with our allies on this important initiative.”
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