Pacific civil society organizations have made a passionate appeal to Forum Leaders to prioritize the preservation and enhancement of civil spaces at the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting (PIFLM) in Nuku’alofa, Tonga.
To confront the urgent challenges posed by extractive industries and climate change affecting Pacific communities, they stressed the importance of improved national coordination and international response.
The civil society delegation, led by Archbishop Peter Loy Chong, included prominent figures such as Sepesa Rasili from the Pacific Islands Association of Non-Governmental Organizations (PIANGO), Grayham Tahu of the Apunepara Haamwaora Natural Resource Association in the Solomon Islands, and Sharon Bhagwan Rolls from the Global Partnership for the Prevention of Armed Conflict (GPPAC).
As Pacific Leaders discuss the future direction of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) and its regional framework, their collective message comes at a critical time.
During a half-hour discussion, civil society representatives highlighted the vital need to amplify community voices on pressing issues such as climate change, sustainable development, gender equality, human rights, ocean conservation, and regional collaboration. The dialogue reflected the diverse aspirations and experiences of various communities across the Pacific.
Sepesa Rasili, president of the Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS), expressed serious concerns over the increasing trend of governments limiting the recognition and involvement of civil society representatives, church leaders, and traditional leaders. He warned that the overall welfare of the region is at significant risk due to the shrinking of secure civil spaces.
“Safe civil spaces are diminishing rapidly as governments restrict the effective participation and acknowledgment of leaders from civil society and faith organizations,” Rasili stated. He called on Forum Leaders to engage with civil society in decision-making processes and ensure the empowerment of all, particularly women and marginalized groups.
Additionally, regional civil society organizations reaffirmed their strong support for youth participation in advancing the 2050 Strategy for a Blue Pacific Continent and reiterated their commitment to resilience through localization.
Rasili emphasized, “Our support is crucial, and I urge our leaders to offer it without burdening our people with debt.” He also highlighted the need to strengthen local systems and national coordination mechanisms to build regional connections and strategies. Furthermore, he advocated for increased backing for the rightful claims to self-determination of Pacific peoples, especially the West Papuans.
Reflecting on the role of Tongan Civil Society, Rasili referenced the indigenous Tongan concept of “pikipiki hama kae vaevae manava,” which underscores collective learning and preparedness as the region progresses toward the 2050 vision of a Blue Pacific Continent.