Reclaiming Human Rights: The Pacific’s Tradition and Future

Human rights are inherently rooted in Pacific traditions and customs, not merely a Western construct, according to legal expert Romulo Nayacalevu, who spoke at the recent Pacific Regional and National Security Conference. He emphasized that principles such as dignity, fairness, and respect have long been integrated into Pacific cultures, citing Tonga’s 1875 Constitution as an early example of rights enshrined before the United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.

Nayacalevu argued that the respect shown towards elders, women, and children in Pacific societies reflects the practice of human rights, even if they were not historically labeled as such. He called for the establishment of a regional human rights framework that embraces local values while aligning with international standards.

Dr. Fiona Hukula from the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS) supported Nayacalevu’s message, stressing the importance of inclusivity and the need for a comprehensive approach to gender representation in regional security strategies. She urged that the upcoming action plan should include diverse consultations to enhance women’s roles not only in security forces but also in peacemaking and community leadership. Hukula asserted that addressing the rights of vulnerable groups must go beyond mere symbolism.

The discussions highlighted at the conference echoed broader themes previously emphasized by Pacific leaders, such as the need for a unified approach to security that encompasses human rights concerns. This reflects a growing consensus on the necessity of integrating varying perspectives, including those that represent marginalized communities, into regional strategies.

With calls for regional collaboration and action to ensure that women, children, and other vulnerable groups are not sidelined, the conference represents a hopeful step towards creating inclusive frameworks that truly reflect the values and needs of Pacific peoples. The emphasis on human rights as a traditionally rooted concept within the Pacific brings with it a potential for greater cooperation and understanding as communities work towards a secure and equitable region.