Civil society organizations from the Pacific are calling on Forum Leaders to prioritize the preservation and enhancement of civil spaces as the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting (PIFLM) commenced in Nuku’alofa, Tonga.
They highlighted the urgent need for better national coordination and international action to address the pressing challenges posed by extractive industries and climate change on Pacific communities.
Archbishop Peter Loy Chong led a delegation that included prominent figures such as Sepesa Rasili of the Pacific Islands Association of Non-Governmental Organizations (PIANGO), Grayham Tahu from the Apunepara Haamwaora Natural Resource Association in the Solomon Islands, and Sharon Bhagwan Rolls of the Global Partnership for the Prevention of Armed Conflict (GPPAC).
During a crucial moment when Pacific Leaders are discussing the future direction of the Pacific Islands Forum and its regional framework, the civil society representatives made a timely statement.
They participated in a half-hour discussion that underscored the importance of amplifying community voices on critical issues like climate change, sustainable development, gender equality, human rights, ocean protection, and regional cooperation, reflecting the diverse goals and experiences of various communities across the Pacific.
Sepesa Rasili, president of the Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS), voiced serious concerns about the growing tendency of governments to diminish the acknowledgment and participation of civil society representatives, religious leaders, and traditional leaders. He warned that the overall well-being of the region is significantly threatened by the shrinking of safe civil spaces.
“Safe civil spaces are diminishing at an alarming rate as governments increasingly limit the effective recognition and engagement of leaders across civil society and faith communities,” Rasili stated.
He urged Forum Leaders to engage with civil society in decision-making processes and ensure that their initiatives empower everyone, particularly women and marginalized groups.
The regional civil society organizations also expressed their steadfast support for youth involvement in promoting the 2050 Strategy for a Blue Pacific Continent while reiterating their commitment to resilience through localization.
Rasili emphasized the importance of supporting local systems and national coordination mechanisms to establish regional linkages and strategies. He advocated for stronger support for the rightful self-determination claims of Pacific peoples, especially those in West Papua.
He also highlighted the role of Tongan Civil Society, referencing the indigenous Tongan principle of “pikipiki hama kae vaevae manava,” which emphasizes collective learning and readiness as the region moves towards the 2050 vision for a Blue Pacific Continent.