I was taught from a young age the value the land adds to you, and the value you have to add to the land.”
Cynthia Houniuhi is a passionate climate activist from the Solomon Islands who has emerged as a powerful voice for Pacific Islanders on the frontlines of the climate crisis.
As one of four lead activists in Oxfam’s global Make Rich Polluters Pay campaign, Cynthia is fighting to hold the world’s biggest polluters accountable for the damage they’ve caused to vulnerable communities like hers.
A journey of advocacy and global impact
Wearing her identity with pride, Cynthia represents the Malaita and Makira provinces of the Solomon Islands. Her journey began in law school, where her passion for climate justice took root. But her connection to the land and environment started much earlier, shaped by the values of her people and the lived reality of growing up in a small island state deeply dependent on nature.
In 2019, Cynthia co-founded Pacific Island Students Fighting Climate Change (PISFCC), a youth-led movement that launched the ICJAO campaign, a global call for the International Court of Justice to issue an advisory opinion on the rights of current and future generations affected by climate change.
The campaign gained momentum, was adopted by Pacific Island Forum Leaders, and ultimately reached the UN General Assembly. In a historic move, the Assembly voted in favour of the request. The ICJ is expected to deliver its opinion in early 2025, a milestone moment for climate justice.
Empowering the Pacific through accountability
Cynthia’s leadership extends beyond legal advocacy. In August 2024, she participated in the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Tonga, representing the Pacific in the Make Rich Polluters Pay campaign.
Her message was clear: those responsible for the climate crisis must be held accountable.
Empowering the Pacific through accountability
Cynthia’s leadership extends beyond legal advocacy. In August 2024, she participated in the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Tonga, representing the Pacific in the Make Rich Polluters Pay campaign.
Her message was clear: those responsible for the climate crisis must be held accountable.
The campaign is about accountability,” she says. “It’s about seeing the adverse effects of climate change and making those responsible pay for the suffering of my people.”
Cynthia believes in a sustainable future where small island nations have the capacity to adapt and thrive. Her work is not just about justice, it’s about survival, dignity, and hope.
A recognition of courage and leadership
In 2023, Cynthia was named to Time magazine’s 100 Next list, recognising her as one of the world’s emerging leaders. Her advocacy has inspired thousands across the globe and brought Pacific voices to the heart of international climate discussions.
Her work is supported by Oxfam and aligned with the values of the Uto ni Yalo Trust, whose traditional voyaging canoe, Uto ni Yalo (“Heart of the Spirit”), symbolises the resilience, innovation, and ancestral wisdom of Pacific peoples. The Trust’s mission to promote sustainable sea transport and traditional knowledge echoes Cynthia’s own vision for a just and sustainable future.
The value of Oxfam’s support
Through her collaboration with Oxfam, Cynthia continues to amplify the voices of Pacific communities and mobilise global support for climate justice. The Make Rich Polluters Pay campaign is not just a call to action, it’s a movement for change.
Join the movement. Sign the petition at www.makerichpolluterspay.org
