More than 150 leaders, diplomats, security experts, and representatives from civil society have gathered in Suva for the much-anticipated 2025 Pacific Regional and National Security Conference (PRNSC). Taking place from July 14-16 at the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, this conference is one of the largest security events in the region, uniting senior officials from member countries of the Forum.
Opening statements were made by notable leaders, including Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka of Fiji, Prime Minister Dalton Tagelagi of Niue, and Forum Secretary General Baron Waqa. The gathered experts emphasized the significance of this conference for the Pacific security community to envision a collaborative and peaceful future. “This conference is an opportunity for the Pacific security community to help shape what that vision looks like in practice,” stated Professor Dave Peebles, Director of the Pacific Security College.
The 2025 PRNSC is anchored in the Boe Declaration on Regional Security and the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. It seeks to equip regional stakeholders with a Pacific-led roadmap toward the proposed “Ocean of Peace,” an idea which will be deliberated by Forum leaders later this year. “We are bringing together national security officials and community leaders not just to respond to today’s crises, but to chart a peaceful and resilient path towards 2050 and beyond,” added Professor Peebles, highlighting the collective strength of Pacific nations working in unison.
The conference features over 40 speakers across ten panels, covering pressing issues such as climate security amidst deteriorating climate indicators, the escalating methamphetamine crisis, the roles of women in peace and security, and threats to maritime and environmental integrity. Insights will also be provided concerning digital technologies, humanitarian responses, and the future of the Boe Declaration.
The initiative sees participation from eight ministers from Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, and the Cook Islands, who will discuss strategies implemented by their governments to confront regional security challenges. The conference will conclude with an interactive “futures exercise” led by experts from the Pacific Community and the Australian National University.
The PRNSC is supported by a coalition of 11 regional organizations, including the Pacific Security College, Forum Fisheries Agency, University of the South Pacific, and the Pacific Islands Chiefs of Police. The gathering marks a proactive step towards enhancing regional security frameworks while fostering collaboration among Pacific Island nations to address the multifaceted challenges they face.
With a clear focus on collective action and resilience, the conference embodies a hopeful vision for the Pacific’s future. By drawing together expertise and nurturing partnerships, regional leaders are laying the groundwork for a peaceful and secure environment for generations to come.
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