Civil society organizations from the Pacific made a compelling appeal to leaders at the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting (PIFLM) in Nuku’alofa, Tonga, urging them to prioritize the preservation and enhancement of civil spaces.
They highlighted the pressing need for improved national coordination and international collaboration to tackle the challenges posed by extractive industries and climate change on Pacific communities.
The civil society delegation, led by Archbishop Peter Loy Chong, included notable figures such as Sepesa Rasili of the Pacific Islands Association of Non-Governmental Organizations (PIANGO), Grayham Tahu from the Solomon Islands’ Apunepara Haamwaora Natural Resource Association, and Sharon Bhagwan Rolls of the Global Partnership for the Prevention of Armed Conflict.
As Pacific Leaders discuss the future direction of the Pacific Islands Forum and its regional framework, the timing of this joint statement is crucial.
During a half-hour discussion, civil society representatives emphasized the importance of amplifying community voices on vital issues such as climate change, sustainable development, gender equality, human rights, ocean protection, and regional cooperation. The dialogue reflected the diverse objectives and experiences of communities across the Pacific.
Rasili, president of the Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS), voiced serious concerns about the growing trend of governments limiting the recognition and participation of civil society representatives, church leaders, and traditional leaders. He warned that this reduction in safe civil spaces poses a significant threat to the overall well-being of the region.
“Safe civil spaces are shrinking at an alarming rate as governments increasingly limit the effective recognition and engagement of leaders across civil society and communities, as well as leaders within faith,” Rasili stated.
He urged Forum Leaders to engage collaboratively with civil society in decision-making processes and ensure that their actions empower all individuals, particularly women and marginalized groups.
Moreover, regional civil society organizations expressed their unwavering support for youth in the implementation of the 2050 Strategy for a Blue Pacific Continent and reaffirmed their commitment to promoting resilience through localization.
Rasili emphasized, “Our support is crucial, and I implore our leaders to provide it without piling debt on our people.”
He also stressed the need to strengthen local systems and national coordination mechanisms to establish regional linkages and strategies. Rasili advocated for greater support of the Pacific people’s rights to self-determination, notably for the West Papuans.
Reflecting on the role of Tongan civil society, Rasili highlighted the indigenous Tongan concept of “pikipiki hama kae vaevae manava,” which underscores collective learning and preparation as the region progresses toward the 2050 vision of a Blue Pacific Continent.