Professor Anthony James Regan, a specialist in Constitutional Law at the Australian National University (ANU), highlighted the vital importance of public consultation and careful constitutional design for Fiji’s nation-building efforts.
During his presentation at the Fiji National University Vice-Chancellor’s Leadership Seminar Series titled “Constitutional Change in Fiji: Looking to the Future,” Professor Regan emphasized that constitutional design and the selection of a Constitution are crucial, especially in scenarios marked by colonial legacies, postcolonial contexts, and the need for conflict prevention and resolution.
He noted that engaging a wide array of interest groups and ensuring that the general populace comprehends the constitutional process significantly influence whether a Constitution fulfills the country’s diverse needs. “When Constitutions are crafted by elite negotiations or forced by specific groups, it is nearly unavoidable that the resultant Constitution will fail to genuinely address the varied needs of the society,” he stated.
Regan praised the inclusive process employed in crafting Fiji’s 1997 Constitution and the efforts surrounding Bougainville’s fourth Constitution, which, despite never being adopted, showcased a comprehensive approach.
His academic work centers on the interplay between constitution-making, conflict resolution, and peacebuilding, particularly focusing on the Pacific region and select Asian countries. With extensive knowledge in both the procedural and substantive aspects of constitutional development, he provides advisory services and conducts important research in these domains.
Professor Regan also engages in undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, supervises PhD candidates, and carries out administrative responsibilities.
In her address, FNU Vice-Chancellor Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba stated that national universities should focus on addressing national issues through their teaching, research, and public engagement. She remarked, “National universities distinguish themselves by emphasizing national priorities such as cultural heritage, climate change research, and knowledge exchange that confronts national challenges.”
She added, “As a National University, we are committed to pursuing all forms of knowledge, including seminars and educational exchanges, that tackle important national matters. Professor Regan’s participation reflects our dedication to knowledge sharing and fostering meaningful dialogue across Oceania and the globe.”
With a distinguished record in advising on constitutional matters throughout the Pacific, Professor Regan’s insights brought exceptional value to the seminar, which drew a prominent audience, including Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, various government ministers, former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhary, along with dignitaries from the government, security forces, legal professionals, and members of the public.