President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has delivered a keynote address at Humboldt University in Berlin during his ongoing official visit to Germany, outlining the Maldives’ position on climate justice, adaptation financing and the role of science in shaping global policy.

Speaking at the university on Wednesday afternoon, President Dr Muizzu called for a fair and collective international response to climate change that aligns responsibility with support. He noted that countries such as the Maldives contribute negligible amounts to global greenhouse gas emissions but remain among the most vulnerable to its impacts.

He said that for the Maldives, climate adaptation is not a policy choice but a matter of survival, linked to the protection of national sovereignty, culture and identity.

In his address, the President stressed the importance of integrating climate risk into national planning and budgeting, guided by scientific evidence. He also highlighted the need to scale up climate finance to support adaptation efforts and ensure that such initiatives are inclusive and community-driven, with strengthened local governance capacity.

Describing adaptation financing as an issue of climate justice, he underlined the need for predictable, adequate and concessional funding for vulnerable nations.

Reflecting on the Maldives’ own experience, President Dr Muizzu said delayed adaptation increases long-term costs, and emphasised the role of communities as active participants in climate resilience. He also pointed to natural ecosystems such as coral reefs and mangroves as effective and affordable defences against climate impacts, adding that adaptation and development must progress together.

Addressing the role of academic institutions, he said universities play a key part in bridging science and policy, countering misinformation and training future leaders. He noted that global challenges such as climate change require cooperation that goes beyond national boundaries and short-term interests.

During a Q&A session, the President reiterated the need for stronger collaboration among Small Island Developing States (SIDs) and called on major emitters to increase both mitigation efforts and support for vulnerable countries. He also spoke about sustainable tourism practices and energy transition initiatives in the Maldives.

President Dr Muizzu was received at the university by Dr Yoan Vilain, Vice-Provost for International and European Affairs, and Professor Dr Marcel Robischon, Head of the Division of Agricultural Ecology.