Pacific Elders warn against external influence in regional security

Pacific Elders warn against external influence in regional security. Pacific Elders have warned that intensifying geopolitical competition is reshaping the region and argued that Pacific security must remain led by Pacific leaders. In a statement, they said peace in the area is more than the absence of conflict, describing it as tied to justice, dignity, respect, balance, and the protection of people, ocean, cultures and future inheritances. They argued that Pacific regionalism has long been grounded in cooperation among sovereign nations, supported by consensus and a focus on shared regional interests over those of external powers. The Elders said vulnerabilities tied to climate change exposure, economic dependence, geographic isolation and security challenges are increasingly being treated as entry points for outside influence. They cautioned that using vulnerability to justify new forms of intervention and “security cooperation” would weaken sovereignty and reduce the legitimacy of regional institutions. While reaffirming the Pacific Islands Forum as the principal decision-making body, they said it must continue evolving with legitimacy intact.