We are only too aware about the 2019 Pacific Islands Forum theme – Securing our future in the Pacific which builds on the 2017 and 2018 themes. Despite the connotations associated with this theme, the question we all ask is – What is the future of the Pacific? Recent election results in the region shows that change is coming – not necessarily in regard to the impact of a One China Policy choice but perhaps a policy or ideological change that is more effective and more meaningful for our Pacific people. While the Pacific governments have been very instrumental in the global and regional agenda; Pacific communities have either opted for a change in leadership or strategy. The bubble enjoyed currently by Governments will burst as communities take a more determined role in their countries’ future.
Australia and New Zealand’s Pacific policy of “Stepping-up the Pacific Engagement” and “Pacific Reset” both have had its challenges for the region. While we share the same region and have a deep history that builds our current relationships, we still “walk different lines”. The diplomatic nature of these policies have become quite complex to manage as the traditional Pacific landscape get more tenants. The geopolitics does have the tendency to throw the Pacific into a springboard for a more fruitful endeavor. Fortunately or unfortunately the call for solidarity is left to choice. Decision making or the lack of it continues to hinder regional solidarity. Decisions on regional frameworks have become more complex and complicated to drive development and regional progress. This will eventually frustrate some Pacific island countries to explore other strategies to meet their goals.
The role of regional organizations to drive regional policy in accordance to leaders’ decisions and the region’s values has come to the foe of regional issues. That being said, the Pacific has been quite determined and have opted for sub-regional solution. The Sub-regional entities such as the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG), Polynesian Leaders Group (PLG), and the Micronesian Presidents’ Summit (MPS) continue to forge “solutions closer to home”. These sub-regional entities engage sub-regional focus in strategies and relationships that are more determined. There is definitely a call for regional organizations to deliver effective outcomes for the region.
The impact of the United States of America and the European Union’s engagement in the region and more recently, relatively, China and India has been considered differently in the Pacific. The differences in views have shaped policies in the region. Addressing Climate Change and Economic Frameworks are the most influential issues when it comes to the region’s engagement and relationships. While as much as we try and hint common values and principles to drive these engagements the intention of policy makers are too obvious for our communities to readily commit to. As national elections continue to feature in our region, it is clear that our Governments will have to drive a clearer stake in the sand. Unfortunately, without values, the issues that will threaten our solidarity as a region are quite compelling.
Change is definitely coming to the Pacific!