Multi-level governance guidance for climate action in the Pacific: A blueprint to help governments and communities work together to strengthen resilience

This guideline for Pacific Small Island Developing States (SIDS) builds on a strong regional foundation for joint action towards attaining a multi-level governance framework that links international, regional bodies, national ministries, subnational authorities, and communities including customary and traditional institutions so they can plan together, finance together, deliver together, and learn together. The framework rests on five principles: Subsidiarity, alignment, inclusion, integration, and mutual accountability. It outlines practical roles, decision rules, finance pathways (from national budgets and climate funds to performance-based local grants and risk financing/insurance), data systems, standards, and an annual delivery cycle. It closes with case vignettes, key risks, and a 12-month starter roadmap.