This foundational credential defines what we mean by ‘the Pacific’. Pacific countries and territories are characterised by diversity and commonalities, set against the backdrop of a multi-dimensional regional architecture, that features regional and sub-regional organisations, both old and new, notably the Pacific Islands Forum and the Pacific Community. Through this Micro-credential, participants explore how Pacific Island countries perceive their region, and their place in the international system, interrogating the drivers and obstacles to change across multiple dimensions (cultural, political and economic) and applying a critical lens to address critical questions for the future of the Pacific region. To guide these crucial conversations, practitioners and Pacific experts share their experiences and provide real-world examples that illustrate the complexities of addressing the future challenges for Pacific Islands Countries. Upon completion of this Micro-credential, participants will be able to understand the foundational concepts required to critically engage in analysing the complexities of the Pacific Islands region.

Topics

What do we mean by the Pacific?

The Pacific diplomatic system

Economic development in the Pacific

Aid in the Pacific

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion, participants will have the knowledge and skills to:

Understand the diversities and commonalities of the Pacific Islands, including in the way politics works in varied cultural circumstances

Critically assess the factors that are driving change in regionalism in the Pacific, and how the system is evolving

Engage in discussions on the structures of different and diverse Pacific island economies

Understand specific challenges associated with giving aid successfully in Pacific Island countries

Who should enrol?

This credential is designed for policymakers, program designers, researchers and analysts working on and in the Pacific region, to provide an introduction to foundational knowledge and concepts.