The Pacific Islands Forum and its secretariat represent a multifaceted bureaucracy that takes considerable time to comprehend, often requiring at least a year for individuals to fully understand its operations. This political organization is dedicated to balancing the diverse interests of its 18 member states, as well as nurturing regional solidarity.
Its operations rely on a combination of written rules and procedures alongside unwritten conventions known as the “Pacific way,” which influences how decisions are made and issues are approached. My tenure at the Forum Secretariat has spanned three different roles, with my latest position being the Director of Governance and Engagement.
Over the past decade, my experiences in regionalism have been marked by both triumphs and challenges. For me, regionalism is primarily about enhancing collaboration among Pacific nations across various levels of governance. I started my journey at the Forum Secretariat during a turbulent period, particularly following Fiji’s suspension from the Forum in 2009, which created tensions at the leadership level that affected the Secretariat’s operations.
During this time, there were even discussions about the possibility of relocating the Forum Secretariat to Samoa, as regional matters began to be handled outside of its authority, undermining the organization’s influence. Criticism arose, suggesting that the Forum had become detached from the very communities it aimed to serve. The 2013 Review of the Pacific Plan highlighted the need for rejuvenated political engagement, indicating that the Forum had “lost its politics.”
This review prompted me to advocate for a renewed focus on uniting leaders and facilitating political discussions around contentious issues that impede regional cooperation. This task proved daunting, given that leaders convene only once annually, while political changes—including elections and votes of no-confidence—contribute to further instability.
Secretary General Tuiloma Neroni Slade’s time included navigating the challenges presented by Fiji’s suspension. In contrast, Dame Meg Taylor is remembered for her openness in including broader stakeholders in the Forum’s discussions, particularly civil society, particularly facilitated through public submissions under the Framework for Pacific Regionalism.
Internally, this push for reform led to intense debates regarding necessary organizational changes in light of public criticism, resulting in factions within the Secretariat. Nevertheless, these conversations ultimately laid the groundwork for the conceptualization of the Blue Pacific narrative, which shifted the focus of Pacific regionalism toward a narrative of strategic strength in unity among its members.
Discussions on the Blue Pacific culminated in the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. This strategy asserts that Pacific regionalism requires a deliberate and structured approach to avoid being left to chance. Throughout my time with the Forum, two persistent political issues have emerged: membership dynamics and Taiwan’s status within the Forum.
Fiji’s re-engagement with the Forum after its suspension only occurred in 2019, and the irony lies in Fiji later playing a crucial role in addressing the internal discord that prompted five Micronesian members to threaten withdrawal following Henry Puna’s appointment as Secretary General. The Suva Agreement resolved that situation, yet the former leadership’s contributions in promoting regional unity deserve acknowledgment.
One of the most significant decisions made by the Forum in its 53-year history was the 2016 admission of New Caledonia and French Polynesia as full members, a move that diverged from its original political framework and arguably bolstered the influence of other groupings like the Pacific Small Island Developing States.
The issue of Taiwan’s representation within the Forum has intensified, with recent developments as notable as those during the 2017 meeting in Nauru and most recently in Tonga in 2024. As geopolitical tensions rise, this issue is expected to create further friction among member states, with only three Forum members now recognizing Taiwan and increasing pressure from China for the Forum to reassess its Taiwan policies.
Looking ahead, Secretary General Baron Waqa faces the challenge of navigating potentially polarizing issues that could test the unity of the Forum. His collaboration with the Forum Chair and the Troika will be vital as they address topics like deep-sea mining, self-determination, nuclear contamination, and the ongoing challenges related to Taiwan and membership dynamics.
The approach Pacific states take regarding climate issues and human rights will further shape regionalism’s trajectory. Ultimately, regionalism in the Pacific is a complex, evolving process driven by people and relationships rather than simply outputs. Relationships, networks, and individual personalities play a critical role in shaping foreign policy within the region.
While it serves as a vital framework for achieving sustainable development goals, regionalism is inherently fraught with challenges. Member states frequently grapple with capacity constraints that hinder their effective participation, leading to frustrations over the functionality of regional institutions.
Competing national priorities further complicate the regional agenda, with perceptions that funding drives institutional motivations. This dynamic creates varied expectations among member states regarding the objectives of regionalism, fostering an environment of contradictions and frustrations.
Regionalism’s momentum can arise from numerous influences, often propelled by distinct personalities and personal agendas. The narrative of the Forum representing the pinnacle of Pacific regionalism becomes increasingly prominent, especially amid rising geopolitical competition and heightened external engagement. Yet, Pacific islanders generally prioritize communal values over these broader frameworks.
Ultimately, it is the collective spirit of Pacific people that underscores the necessity of regionalism. From a personal standpoint, my experiences within the Forum Secretariat have showcased both my strengths and weaknesses while reflecting the organization’s own highs and lows. The demanding environment fosters a sense of camaraderie, compelling dedication in service to the regional collective.
Although regionalism comes with myriad challenges, it also provides opportunities for celebration, collaboration, and enduring friendships. As one departs, the hope remains for successors to build upon the foundation laid by those who came before. This encapsulates the reality of Pacific regionalism and its complex, nuanced landscape.