The annual report presents an overview of our many achievements over the past year.
Download the Annual Report here
Message from the board
It has been said in some quarters that we are now in the Pacific century, and recent global events have shown that this may well be the case. Geo-political interest in the Pacific is returning to levels not seen since the end of the Second World War. What was once a region struggling to be heard, is now one that is being courted.
The need for a truly independent Pacific voice has never been greater.
In this rapidly changing environment the norms of political and economic engagement are being re-written on an almost daily basis. This has enormous implications for everybody, ranging from the smallest Pacific island to our larger Antipodean neighbours. Nobody knows for certain how the emerging roles and influences from both the Asian subcontinent and also the Middle East will manifest in our region, but those of us who live here know that it is already happening and moving at a pace. The scramble for mineral and marine resources may further exacerbate this struggle.
All of this befalling a region that is still finding its own identity. At every level there are serious challenges. Is the Pacific a single region, or three distinct regions that need to face these challenges separately? How do the Melanesian states combine the need to meet the challenges of the 21st century internationally, whilst dealing with domestic issues and challenges that have their roots deep in their past? How will the recent increased geo- political interest affect the relationship between the Micronesian countries and the United States? Can small Polynesian microstates possibly be expected to operate effectively in such a complex political environment?
The challenges and opportunities for the Pacific are indeed great. In order to meet these challenges, and hopefully make the best of the renewed interest in our region, it is important that our people, leaders and decision makers have access to as much information as possible. This information needs to be provided in a meaningful way that is readily understood and able to help them in their deliberations.
It is therefore a great honour for those of us on the Board of PiPP to see how this young organisation has grown quickly to fill this need. We all understand the very great responsibility that lie on its young shoulders, and congratulate the executive and staff for their incredible achievements in such a short time frame. I hope for the sake of all of us who live in Pacific that we shall continue to see PiPP grow from strength to strength.
Nikunj Soni
Board Chair
Download the Annual Report here
Message from the executive
The events of the last year highlighted the vulnerabilities and resilience of Pacific island states. The ripple effect of the global financial crisis reaffirmed the need for sustainable, broad based economic growth, and ongoing investment in social and physical infrastructure. The devastating flooding in Fiji and the earthquake-triggered tsunami that hit American Samoa, Samoa and Tonga were painful reminders of the force of nature, and the threat posed by climate change. The increasingly polarised debates on trade accentuated the difficulties of small island countries competing on an ever-shifting world stage.
These events further demonstrated the need for Pacific policy responses to be informed by relevant, independent evidence and analysis. Over the first two years of operation, PiPP has positioned itself as the Pacific’s leading independent think tank. From the outset, innovative communications activities have been central to our model of engagement. Based on a detailed understanding of the issues, and the political context in which they will be considered, what we do is immerse the literature and participants in the live policy debate. In addition, research activities build on the knowledge base through original investigation and a considered synthesis of the work of others. Information is presented in accessible language and formats. By tapping into existing networks, we avoid duplication and broaden exposure.
The role of information interlocutor is often invisible, but its value can be gauged through the tremendous support for PiPP across the region and internationally.
We occasionally get asked if we have a particular agenda to advance. We don’t. PiPP is proudly independent and non-partisan, and we do not seek to advocate particular policy positions. We exist simply to stimulate and support policy debate on the issues shaping the next phase of nation building across the Pacific. Our impartiality allows us to build trust, understanding and consensus for action. It also allows us to tackle sensitive issues and challenge the status quo when required.
The results speak for themselves, and this annual report presents an overview of our many achievements over the past year. It also showcases the striking imagery of Pacific-based, international photojournalist (and PiPP Advisory Council member) Ben Bohane. Like Ben’s photographs, our early efforts have concentrated on Melanesia. A focus dictated as much by resource constraints, as an awareness of the incredible diversity of the countries in which we operate. Underestimating the nuances of each island state remains all too common in regional and international discourses on the Pacific. Yes, there is much to be gained from pooling resources and sharing learning, but there is no easy ‘one size fits all’ approach to development in the Pacific islands.
For the year ahead we will continue to develop our programme focus on trade, civic engagement and climate change. Topical issues being explored through these programmes include: education, gender equity, infrastructure, migration, renewable energy, urbanisation and youth citizenship. We will also endeavour to strengthen our partnerships with policy stakeholders and research institutions, especially in Micronesia and Polynesia.
As incoming executive director, it is an honour to be tasked with the leadership of such a dynamic organisation, and a privilege to work alongside a dedicated and capable team of colleagues and associates. We are indebted to the people and organisations that continue to support us, and welcome new partners to promote informed policy debate on the issues that matter.
Derek Brien
Executive Director
Download the Annual Report here.
Copies of the full version of the audited financial statements are available on request.
