This week, details have emerged regarding an Australian government initiative aimed at funding the establishment of a National Rugby League (NRL) club in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Canberra is proposing AU$600 million over a decade, with the stipulation that the PNG government refrains from entering into any security agreement with China.
The Australian government sees this funding offer as a method of exerting “soft power,” tapping into the strong passion for rugby league in PNG. However, the feasibility of this plan remains uncertain.
Gordon Peake, affiliated with the US Institute of Peace, shared his insights based on his extensive experience in PNG. He remarked that Papua New Guineans greatly cherish rugby league, and Australia’s support for PNG’s NRL ambitions has been ongoing for several years. Initially perceived as a generous offer from Australia, Peake noted that it is now clear that the funding is conditional upon PNG avoiding a defense pact with China.
Peake described this situation as more indicative of “hard power” than soft power, raising questions about how these two separate issues—rugby league support and geopolitical maneuvering—can effectively coexist. He expressed skepticism about the practicality of the initiative, noting that shifting political allegiances could jeopardize the rugby league project.
Additionally, Peake highlighted potential public sentiment concerning this funding, suggesting that some Papua New Guineans feel the money could be better allocated to pressing needs like health and education. He emphasized that both Australia and PNG would be concerned about losing face should this rugby league bid fail.
Peake indicated that while there may have been previous soft power initiatives in the Pacific, none have matched the scale of Australia’s rugby league offer. He speculated that China might view Australia’s approach as impractical, noting that there are likely more efficient methods for exerting influence in the region.
In summary, while the Australian government is pursuing this rugby league initiative as a form of diplomacy, the intersection of sports and international relations raises complex challenges that may hinder its success.