At the invitation of SHSviews to assess the important meeting on the future of the Arctic region in light of the challenges posed by climate change, held from 3-6 March 2009 in the Principality of Monaco, His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco expressed his belief that “collective interest will be increasingly frequent as a deciding factor in our daily choices”.

“First and foremost, I must highlight that this commitment stems from a long-standing process. In keeping with the actions committed to the preservation of the Mediterranean Sea established more than 30 years ago by my country, in partnership with France and Italy, through the RAMOGE Agreement*, I am convinced of the need for a responsible and harmonious development of a state together with its environment.

My hope, of course, is not only to increase public awareness on these core issues, but also to emphasize the importance of pooling the skills and knowledge of all parties. It is by effectively relaying the results of projects led by numerous scientists, and from the studies conducted by members of government, policy-makers, and various international, intergovernmental and renowned independent bodies, that a synergy will emerge to find long-lasting solutions for the fair and sustainable development of our planet.

In April 2006, I led an expedition to the North Pole to raise awareness of the consequences of climate change. Along similar lines, I created my own foundation in June 2006 which is dedicated to both the protection of the environment and sustainable development. It is founded on the principal axes of action: climate change, biodiversity and water.

Similarly, earlier this year, I travelled to the South Pole to visit the various scientific bases installed in Antarctica. It is through understanding the concerns linked to climate change and the studies carried out in this area that it is possible to assure the promotion, and, more importantly, the preservation of these regions, which ensure the climatic balance of the entire planet.

As you know, “to govern is to plan ahead”. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to consider the future, taking into consideration that it is shaped by the innovative ideas of today. It is likely that our lifestyles will no longer have the sole objective of satisfying our individual needs. Rather, the collective interest will be increasingly frequent as a deciding factor in our daily choices. I am convinced that this trend will serve as the cornerstone of future policies in this area.”

Interview by Nfaly « Vieux » Savané

* The ramoge Agreement is a treaty for the protection of the environment signed in 1976 between the governments of France, Monaco, and Italy to ensure that the maritime zones of the Region of Provence-Alpes-French Riviera, the Principality of Monaco and the region of Liguria constitute a prevention zone in the struggle against marine pollution.