Pacific leaders have officially endorsed the Pacific Policing Initiative (PPI), a significant regional effort aimed at enhancing collective peace and security in the area. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka highlighted the importance of this initiative, referring to it as a blessing for a region currently facing numerous challenges. He emphasized that it is the duty of regional leaders to establish their own framework for policing.
The PPI received backing from several nations, including Palau, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, and Fiji. This initiative aims to strengthen the capacity of Pacific nations to address law enforcement and internal security needs, as well as to provide mutual support during emergencies.
As part of the PPI, plans are in place to develop up to four regional police training Centres of Excellence within the Pacific. These centers will focus on enhancing policing skills through specialized training and operational support for police personnel in the region.
Additionally, the Pacific Police Support Group (PPSG) will be established as a collaborative police resource, prepared to respond to the needs of Pacific countries, particularly during significant events or crises. A PPI Policing Development and Coordination Hub will be located in Brisbane, offering state-of-the-art Australian Federal Police facilities for training and preparation for any deployments by the PPSG.
Australia has pledged approximately $400 million over five years to support the PPI, which will cover infrastructure expenses related to the establishment of these new Centres of Excellence in the region. This initiative aligns with the Pacific Islands Forum’s peace and security goals as outlined in the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent and builds upon recent experiences with the Solomons International Assistance Force.
Discussions regarding a unified regional policing framework began at the Pacific Islands Chiefs of Police meeting held this year. Pacific police are in the process of finalizing the design of the PPI to ensure it is led by Pacific nations for their own benefit.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese remarked that this policing initiative continues a longstanding tradition of cooperation among Pacific police forces, strengthening regional peace and providing support in times of need. He stated, “Pacific leaders are collaborating to shape the future we envision, enhancing capability, cooperation, and interoperability among police forces to benefit all Pacific countries and ensure community safety.”
He reiterated that this initiative, driven by Pacific leadership and supported by Australia, emphasizes the collective strengths of the region, asserting that their security responsibilities are shared among all Pacific nations.