Tuvalu's election may change treaty with Australia

Significance

Under the agreement, Australia will fund climate resilience schemes and offer sanctuary to residents of the partly submerged Pacific nation while taking responsibility for Tuvalu’s security interests. Canberra’s intent is to counter China’s spreading influence in the region.

Impacts

• Tuvalu may have to modify the treaty if there is a backlash to some of its provisions during the general election in January.
• Australia will regard the limited intake from Tuvalu as a worthwhile price for extending its regional influence.
• Several factors will make it difficult to apply to other countries the climate migration model that underpins the agreement.