The Future of Pacific Island Regional Organisations

Abstract

Regional Organisations have been a presence in the Pacific since the end of World War Two. An important reason for their establishment was to ensure the future security, advancement and welfare of Pacific peoples and these objectives continue as a priority. This advancement is now associated with an enlarged set of issues, they encompass the environment, sustainable development and globalisation. A priority for regionalism, environmental and developmental concerns have also been identified by the international community as having an impact. The purpose of this study is to consider to what extent regional co-operation in the Pacific is adjusting appropriately to newer challenges. For this study, I have utilised criteria, that assure regionalism is a viable means of operation for the Pacific so long as the following factors are effectively addressed. This includes: evidence that programmes are producing beneficial outcomes for Pacific peoples in a range of areas; an efficient management of operating funds; determination of regional operations by Pacific Islanders themselves, exemplified by agenda setting, staffing and management by Pacific peoples; equitable operation of these organisations and recognition of a distinctive 'Pacific Way' through practices that honour this approach