The University of the South Pacific (USP) contributed insights through its participation at the inaugural Pacific Regional and National Security Conference (PRNSC), hosted at the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat in Suva, Fiji, from 14-16 July.
The conference brought together political leaders, academics, and security stakeholders to address emerging and complex security challenges facing the Pacific region.
Representing USP was Dr Manumatavai Tupou-Roosen, Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President (Regional Campuses and Global Engagement).
Dr Tupou-Roosen chaired the conference opening and also served as moderator of the high-level session titled “Political Leaders on Climate Security.” She emphasised the vital role of regional cooperation and knowledge-sharing in shaping a secure and sustainable Pacific.
“We are strong and resilient people, custodians of our Blue Pacific Continent. As large Ocean States, we have withstood all manner of challenges for centuries. We can continue to navigate and overcome our challenges through our Pacific Way of working together,” Dr Tupou-Roosen stated.
“Convened by the Pacific Security College, this conference provided a significant platform for national and regional stakeholders to talanoa and advance the security of our region.”
“Pacific People continue to lead. A remarkable example is the initiative by USP law students for the Advisory Opinion on climate change and state responsibility from the International Court of Justice, spearheaded by Vanuatu and supported by other Pacific countries.”
“This has resulted in over 100 submissions, making it the largest case in the ICJ’s history. We trust that the courageous voices of our people conveyed in our submissons have been heard by the ICJ.”
Dr Tupou-Roosen also joined a distinguished panel of speakers in the session titled “The Ocean of Peace”, moderated by Associate Professor Sandra Tarte from USP’s School of Law and Social Sciences (SoLaSS).
The session explored ocean diplomacy, regional solidarity, and the blue economy, highlighting the strategic importance of ocean governance to Pacific security.
Associate Professor Tarte reflected on the significance of such dialogues in fostering mutual understanding and advancing Pacific-led solutions.
“I had the privilege to moderate, included prominent thought leaders from the region, including Dr Manu Tupou-Roosen and Professor Transform Aqorau, Vice-Chancellor of the Solomon Islands National University.”
“As Forum members work towards finalising a Draft Declaration on the Ocean of Peace for Leaders to consider in September, this panel discussion provided some key reflections on the way forward, reminding participants that there has been much collective action in the past to advance peace and security.”
“The South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone Treaty was highlighted as an important contribution to both regional and world peace. But what was needed was more focus on implementation and action. There was no need for additional mechanisms; but for a strengthening and steam-lining of existing treaties and agreements.”
USP’s representation at PRNSC reflects its ongoing commitment to regional development, peacebuilding, and climate security through education, research, and policy engagement.
The University remains dedicated to supporting the implementation of the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, and continues to play a leading role in convening and contributing to region-wide conversations on security and resilience.
