Navigating the waves of change: Framing Pacific Small Island Developing States within a geopolitical and climate context

This paper investigates how Pacific Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are framed in the academic literature at the intersection of geopolitics and climate change. Through a semi-systematic review of peer-reviewed articles, the study explores the research problems motivating the research, the descriptions of key challenges, and the prescriptions for future action. Findings highlight the strategic roles of Pacific SIDS in global climate diplomacy, demonstrating their proactive engagement despite significant structural constraints. The literature underscores how external perceptions and strategic interests of major powers often overshadow the existential threats facing these islands. At the same time, it emphasizes the agency of Pacific SIDS in advocating for climate finance, fostering regional cooperation, and pushing for inclusive governance structures. This review critically examines the evolution of these discussions. It highlights the need for further research to broaden the scope beyond its current focus on the interactions of a limited number of large geopolitical key players with Pacific SIDS, and to further examine the resilience and agency of Pacific SIDS as they navigate the multifaceted impacts of climate change. • We review research on Pacific SIDS at the intersection of geopolitics-climate change. • Findings highlight strategic roles of Pacific SIDS in global climate diplomacy. • Pacific SIDS engagement in regional cooperation seen as critical. • Need for expanded research scope on Pacific SIDS and geopolitics.