The island states of the Pacific are beset by many challenges.
Geographic isolation and dislocation. Limited resources. Small but rapidly growing populations. Shifting cultural values. A changing climate.
There has been enormous international investment in aid, research and development programmes. Yet these initiatives are not shaping domestic policy. Key messages are not reaching national decision-makers. Throughout the Pacific, debate on pressing policy issues is limited. Existing communication channels fail to engage local communities. Considerable gaps exist between academic observations and the realities on the ground.
The hurdles of language, access and cultural discord require a fresh approach. The Pacific Institute of Public Policy presents a unique and pragmatic response. A wealth of knowledge, ideas and experience already exists. We will connect these with the local political context. Adapting information and the latest thinking to advance the search for homegrown solutions to national development challenges.
Facilitating dialogue between researchers, development practitioners, government officials, elected leaders and their constituents, will build trust, understanding and consensus for action. We will use relevant language and innovative formats to disseminate important information. Seminars and conferences will provide inclusive forums for shared learning, and stimulate wider public debates. We will also produce position papers and carry out research and consultancy grounded in empirical evidence.
The results will be practical and benefit governments, aid donors, development agencies, academia, civil society, and community groups. They will contribute to an informed and active citizenry, a more responsive and enabled civil service, and better policy outcomes.
Translating intention into action.
That’s the difference. The Pacific Institute of Public Policy is an independent, non-partisan and not-for-profit think tank based in Port Vila, Vanuatu and exists to stimulate and support policy debate in the Pacific.
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For more information contact:
Derek Brien
Pacific Institute of Public Policy
Tel: +678 29842
Email: dbrien@pacificpolicy.org
