Guest Lecture by Dr. Gonzaga Puas: Climate Change and the Future of Pacific Island States

Sea level rise poses an imminent threat to the viability of low-lying islands throughout Oceania. Indigenous knowledge and practices have gained attention as the basis of climate adaptation in agriculture and economic practice. In this talk, Dr. Puas discusses the rationales of governments and funding bodies behind various initiatives, and connects efforts at keeping low islands viable to their geopolitical context.

Gonzaga Puas is an Indigenous historian and sou uruo adept to the culture of ancestral knowledge of his native Mortlock Islands. Originally trained in law and political science, he works as a historian at the intersection of international history and Indigenous collective memory. As an advisor to the Department of Health and Social Affairs of the Ferderated States of Micronesia, Puas today leads research projects that aim at enhancing environmental and economic resilience of low-lying islands based on traditional practices.

Time & Venue

Convenor:

Dr. Jonas Rüegg

jonas.ruegg@hist.uzh.ch

Fr. June 27, 14:15–15:45

Lecture Hall KO2-F-155

Climate Change and the Future of Pacific Island States