A project of the East-West Center and the Center for Pacific Islands Studies at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa.
The Pacific Islands face significant threats from climate change, jeopardizing US strategic interests. Increased US diplomatic engagement and support for climate resilience are essential. Meanwhile, China’s growing influence in the region, highlighted by economic ties and security agreements, necessitates a cooperative approach from the US to ensure regional stability and security.
Gabriel Otis, a master’s candidate at George Washington University, emphasizes the weakening U.S. focus on the Pacific under President Trump, highlighted by reduced soft power and climate change neglect. This disengagement risks regional instability, opening opportunities for China, while urging a return to collaborative engagement to enhance security and partnerships in the Blue Pacific.
Elizabeth Yen Tzu Liew explores China’s sports diplomacy in the Pacific Island Countries, particularly using Papua New Guinea as a case study. This strategy enhances bilateral relationships through infrastructure and sports exchanges, deepening cultural ties while positioning China as a viable partner amidst a multipolar world, ultimately reinforcing its foreign policy goals.
Axel Defngin, from Yap in Micronesia, reflects on his experience with Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) during a political internship amid the rise of Trump. He critiques the dismantling of DEI initiatives, emphasizing the need for balance and resilience in the face of historical and contemporary challenges facing marginalized communities and their identities.
David Spring is an engineer with over 20 years of experience, focusing on equitable access and sustainable practices in the Pacific Islands. The region is exploring a circular economy to replace traditional waste management, leveraging recycling initiatives and partnerships to address environmental challenges and foster economic growth while promoting sustainability.
Nicholas M. Burk, managing director of Blue Ocean Analytics and an adjunct professor, proposes “Regional Disaster Libraries” to document community narratives and resilience against “Interlocking Disasters” in the Pacific Islands. These libraries aim to capture valuable grey literature, aiding cultural preservation and disaster response efforts amid rising global challenges and media complexities.
Jasmine Koria, co-chair of the Samoa Youth Advisory Board, participated in the 2024 Commonwealth Youth Forum, emphasizing youth engagement in governance, environmental resilience, economic equity, and mental health support. The 13th Commonwealth Youth Declaration launched during this forum aims to influence policies for the 1.2 billion youth in the Commonwealth.
Virginia Comolli and Alastair MacBeath focus on the intersection of organized crime and climate change in the Pacific Islands. As criminal activities rise alongside climate issues, there is a pressing need for integrated policy responses. The resilience of local communities faces significant challenges, necessitating international cooperation to address these interconnected threats.
Bars Terra Williams, a student from Palau studying at the University of Hawai’i, reflects on the 13th Festival of Pacific Arts and Culture, emphasizing the shared bonds among Pacific Islanders. The festival reinforced unity despite challenges and highlighted the importance of solidarity for addressing ongoing struggles. Williams anticipates the future gatherings to strengthen these connections.
Cathy Hite Sakumalefo reflects on her childhood in the Solomon Islands, the dangers of unexploded ordnance from World War II, and the ongoing risks faced by local communities.