The Australian High Commission in Samoa has congratulated Samoa’s Salā Dr George Carter on his appointment to the UN panel for the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI) – is a new UN tool to measure a country’s structural vulnerability and lack of resilience beyond its income.
“With strong support from Pacific countries, Australia nominated Dr Carter in recognition of his expertise and commitment to elevating Pacific voices on the global stage.
“Over the next four years, his leadership will help shape the MVI – a vital tool to better understand the unique vulnerabilities of Small Island Developing States and improve access to essential financial and technical support.”
About Sala Dr George Carter
Salā is a member of Australia’s Climate Council. He is an international relations scholar and climate diplomacy expert.
He has written widely, and he a Pacific island negotiator at United Nations climate meetings. His latest research explores Small Island Developing States (SIDS) climate security, finance and Indigenous Knowledge, with the emphasis on the prospect of Australia hosting the COP31 UN climate negotiations in partnership with Pacific island countries.
George is Senior Fellow and Deputy Head of the Department of Pacific Affairs at the Australian National University (ANU), where he is also the Director of the ANU’s Pacific Institute.
His work considers how Pacific Island and SIDS states and peoples can influence decision-making processes in regional and international politics.
He is passionate on issues related to global warming and sea-level rise.
Sala George’s research and teaching ‘tautua’ are influenced by his work experience and education in the Pacific, and grounded by his Samoan, Tuvaluan, i-Kiribati, Chinese and British heritage.
What is MVI
The Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI) is a new UN tool to measure a country’s structural vulnerability and lack of resilience beyond its income.
It assesses impacts from climate change, disasters, health crises, and economic shocks, with the aim of providing a fairer basis for development finance, especially for vulnerable Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
It uses several indicators across various dimensions to show how external shocks affect development, allowing for better-targeted support and eligibility for concessional aid.
Australia is a strong advocate for MVI
“Australia is a strong advocate for the MVI and remains committed to ensuring Pacific perspectives are central to global solutions.”
“This appointment reflects our dedication to supporting Pacific leadership and driving meaningful outcomes for our region.”
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