LEGISLATIVE SUPPORT OF ENVIRONMENTAL MIGRATION PROCESSES IN FIJI

Climate relocation in Fiji is a component of the adaptation strategy addressing the escalating impacts of climate change, including rising sea levels, increased frequency of extreme weather events, and coastal erosion. Fiji is particularly vulnerable due to its low-lying geography and reliance on coastal ecosystems. This article examines the framework of the Republic of Fiji’s public policies regarding relocations related to climate change and natural disasters. The primary sources for this article are government documents from the Republic of Fiji. The study analyzes these documents to identify relevant aspects for Ukraine, which, after critical reconsideration, should be thoroughly examined and incorporated into the development of corresponding legislation in Ukraine. It was found that the legislative framework for climate-related relocations in Fiji includes documents such as the “Fiji National Climate Change Policy”, the “Fiji National Adaptation Plan”, the “Planned Relocation Guidelines”, the “Climate Relocation of Communities Trust Fund Act”, and the “Standard Operating Procedures for Planned Relocation”, among others. The study focuses mainly on the analysis of the “Planned Relocation Guidelines”, which outline the primary principles and approaches to this process, detailing its stages and the stakeholders involved, as well as recommendations for their actions and interactions. It was found that the relocation process involves complex planning aimed at preserving cultural heritage, sustaining livelihoods, and building resilient infrastructure while ensuring human rights at all stages of relocation. The study concludes that this document reveals the algorithm of the population relocation process due to climate and environmental reasons. However, practical recommendations for all stakeholders, including vulnerable communities, are contained in the “Standard Operating Procedures for Planned Relocation”, which compiles a broad range of recommendations useful for legislators, policymakers, and practitioners in many countries, including Ukraine. Key words: climate change, adaptation, climate displacement, mobility of the population, environmental law, environmental migration, regulated migration, Fiji, legislation.