Leaders from sixteen Pacific Island Forum countries convened at the Pacific Public Service Leaders Conference (FONO) 2025, currently taking place in Suva, to explore avenues for enhancing governance and service delivery across the region. This year’s conference centers on critical themes, including leadership development, workforce mobility, and leveraging technology to advance ethical public service practices. Participants are united in their efforts to foster prosperity and uphold democratic principles across their nations.
Filimoni Vosarogo, Fiji’s Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, highlighted the importance of collective dialogue, stating, “The challenges we face individually may seem insurmountable, but when we come together to talanoa and confer, we realize we are not alone in them.” His remarks underscore the significance of regional collaboration in addressing the common governance and public administration challenges faced by Pacific nations.
A notable focus of this year’s discussions stems from outcomes of last year’s forum held in Samoa, particularly on workforce mobility and retention strategies within Pacific public services. Tania Ott, Deputy Commissioner of the New Zealand Public Service Commission, emphasized the provision of a customizable framework for Public Service Commissions to enhance workforce planning and retain essential talent, while also engaging the Pacific diaspora for their continued contributions to their home countries.
The 2025 conference also includes mentoring and coaching programs designed for emerging and established leaders, empowering them to lead with integrity rooted in Pacific values. Ott expressed confidence that the dedication of regional leaders would drive meaningful action toward overcoming challenges, stating, “This model reduces the risk of stagnation by maintaining accountability and fostering sustained progress on public service goals.”
Highlighted collaborations, supported by the Public Service Whanau, demonstrate a commitment from regional leaders to ensure the actionable outcomes from the conference are pursued actively throughout the year. Over the next few days, attendees will engage in various sessions aimed at addressing essential topics such as digital transformation, ethical governance, and inclusivity in public service.
The collective determination to build resilient public services hints at a hopeful future for the Pacific region. As leaders join forces to share insights and best practices, there is optimism that the outcomes of this conference will bring lasting improvements to governance and public service delivery, ultimately enriching the lives of Pacific communities.
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