On March 30, 2021, as part of “POP Climate Leadership Conversations:  A tribute to our Chief Mentor, Late Dr. R.K. Pachauri”, a conversation with H.E. Lawrence Gonzi, former Prime Minister of Malta, was held. Moderated by POP Ocean Mentor, Ana Hanhausen, the conversation focused on leadership for blue ecosystem restoration. H.E. Gonzi spoke about understanding the importance of climate change and the global responsibility to solve it, as the youngest generations will pay the highest price. He also spoke about the Decade of Ecosystem Restoration, established by the United Nations, and the great impact this may have, as we are in urgent need of placing this at the top of our agenda.

When asked about the importance of restoring blue ecosystems for resilience, H.E. Gonzi spoke about how our survival depends on blue ecosystems because of weather patterns, food, trade, and more. On speaking about measures taken in Malta, H.E. added, "Political leadership means having the courage to take decisions. Decisions need to be taken not thinking whether it makes you popular or not, but rather what’s necessary for the country.”

Priyanka Prakash, a youth leader asked about how blue ecosystem restoration may benefit those who depend on the ocean. H.E. described the role blue ecosystems play in the lives of those who live by the coast, emphasizing the importance of focusing on water quality. He added that blue ecosystems are so important that they should concern even landlocked countries.

When asked about the role of youth, H.E. Gonzi stated that the younger generations have the most innovative ideas and they should come forward and put their minds together to create real and lasting change. He said that small personal acts, when added up, can have a very important impact and that we should all contribute at a personal, local, and regional level. H.E. also added that we may look at children as allies as they have great ideas and we need to share with them what is happening across the globe and how we can all come together to implement solutions.

About the guest:

A former Prime Minister for nine years (2004-2008; 2008-2013), Lawrence Gonzi led Malta during its first nine years as a member of the European Union, transforming the island nation into a modern and dynamic European country. During his premiership, Dr. Gonzi retained the Finance portfolio while guiding Malta through an economic restructuring process ahead of Malta’s adoption of the Euro in January 2008. In his second term, he successfully steered the economy during the most severe global economic crisis (2007-2013). With a political career spanning twenty-five years, Dr. Gonzi occupied several positions before becoming Prime Minister including Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Social Policy and Speaker of the House of Representatives

Watch the full conversation