Discussion Paper Series 02/25 - Re-Imagining the Ocean of Peace
Authors: Ozayr Akbar, Mereani Baleilevuka, Antonia Bhagwan, Nicole Matevesi, Nikolai Tarte
Click here to download the Discussion Paper
Executive Summary
This Discussion Paper provides a youth-led analysis of the Ocean of Peace initiative. Drawing on Epeli Hau‘ofa’s vision of Oceania, the five authors – Akbar, Baleilevuka, Bhagwan, Matevesi, and Tarte – collectively explore the need for decolonisation, youth inclusion, regional governance and a reassessment of geopolitical realities to achieve a peace that is just, enduring, and genuinely Pacific-led.
This paper outlines the following recommendations for refining the Ocean of Peace initiative to ensure it is accountable, inclusive, and future-focused:
- Acknowledge that there cannot be an Ocean of Peace when the Pacific Islands remains the most colonised region in the world. The Ocean of Peace therefore should integrate explicit commitments to support decolonisation and self-determination efforts across the region, including West Papua and Kanaky.
- Ensure the Ocean of Peace framework actively addresses the geopolitical dynamics that threaten regional security, such as military expansion and environmental degradation.
- Institutionalise youth participation at all levels of decision-making during the development, implementation and evaluation of the Ocean of Peace initiative, including the development of the Guiding Principles, through formalised intergenerational dialogue mechanisms and support for youth networks.
- Anchor the Ocean of Peace initiative in Indigenous knowledge systems and redefine sovereignty as a practice of inclusive, community-led governance.
Epeli Hau’ofa reminds us that culture is not something that can be frozen in time but moves and changes with time (Hau’ofa, 1999). We expect that an Ocean of Peace welcomes tides of cultural change. If we do not safeguard youths and their Pasifika culture within them, the Pacific Way will end at our elders.
About the Authors:
Ozayr Akbar is a research student at the University of the South Pacific, pursuing a Master’s in Politics and International Affairs. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Politics and Law from the University of the South Pacific and the University of Valladolid. An educator, artist, and human rights advocate, his work focuses on decolonization, climate justice, and advancing social equity.
Mereani Baleilevuka is an intern at a regional organization and holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Economics and Politics & International Affairs. Her experience in the security field has deepened her interest in the role of youth in governance, and she actively advocates for the meaningful inclusion of young people in policy and decision-making processes.
Antonia Bhagwan is a young activist, poet, and emerging storyteller whose work advocates for self-determination, human rights, and climate justice, grounded in the evolving narratives of Pasifik culture. She is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Media, with a focus on Politics, at the University of the South Pacific, and is a member of the Pacific Australia Emerging Leaders Network.
Nicole Matevesi is a second-year International Relations and Politics student at the University of the South Pacific. A committed advocate for human rights, social justice, and building strong connections across the Pacific, she harnesses cultural storytelling as a vehicle for community cohesion and youth engagement.
Nikolai Tarte is a Politics and History student at the University of Auckland. Raised in Fiji, he developed a deep commitment to Pacific politics and regionalism and is driven to contribute to a more resilient and inclusive Pacific.