Fiji, Oct. 14 -- Pacific nations have warned that the first United Nations Declaration on Sea Level Rise falls short of the legal protections and climate action needed to safeguard vulnerable island states, despite welcoming its adoption by consensus.

Speaking during the UN General Assembly debate on 12 October, Pacific representatives highlighted gaps in the declaration on maritime boundaries, continuity of statehood, human rights, climate finance and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Papua New Guinea delivered the strongest criticism, warning that negotiations had weakened important provisions to secure agreement from all countries.

"The purpose of consensus should be to confer broad legitimacy. It should not become a veto...