The experience of sovereignty in the Pacific: island states and political autonomy in the twenty-first century

Most Pacific Island states regained their independence during the post-Second World War era with relatively little struggle. Subsequently Pacific Island countries have had to face the more arduous task of seeing to it that their sovereignty is not compromised by uncompetitive economic prospects and their dependence on larger, more powerful states. Coups, civil strife and political instability have also complicated the region's strivings to promote the at times competing values of democracy, tradition and economic growth. Elsewhere in the Pacific efforts to achieve greater political autonomy continue to be pursued, with uneven results, resistance coming both from external powers and from populations anxious about the consequences of being on their own. As an at times neglected region, this contribution provides an overview of the experience of Pacific Island states and territories, as leaders and voters have adjusted to the realities of sovereignty and autonomy within the context of limited resources and policy options.