APPS call for papers: the Pacific islands in the twenty-first century

Since the turn of the century, Pacific island countries have been in the global spotlight like never before. Greater assertiveness, evident in global discussions around climate change as well as in relations with traditional allies like Australia and New Zealand, has been driven both by national and regional dynamics. However, diplomatic strength has not coincided with significant economic improvements. A resource boom has come and gone in Papua New Guinea, arguably creating more problems than it has delivered in the way of benefits. Throughout Melanesia, ongoing problems with basic service delivery have contributed to greater decentralisation, reversing decades of state-building efforts. Throughout the wider Pacific, dependence upon foreign assistance is as great as ever.

This special issue of Asia and the Pacific Policy Studies aims to explore the significant changes sweeping the Pacific islands region this century. What are the future implications for the region of changes now underway? How best can challenges be addressed? What are the implications for policy-makers?

Without wanting to constrain the breadth of papers that may be submitted, it is envisaged that possible topics might include: the blue-green economy, service delivery, regionalism, trade, and labour markets. Papers from different disciplinary backgrounds are invited, including economics, political science, governance, development, and the environment. Papers with relevance to public policy in the region are especially encouraged. All papers are subject to the normal peer review process undertaken by Asia and the Pacific Policy Studies. For further details, please contact Matthew Dornan.

Guest Editors

• Matthew Dornan

• Ron Duncan

Deadline

October 31st 2017 (once accepted, papers will be available online on an ‘early-view’ basis)

image_pdfDownload PDF

Matthew Dornan

Matthew Dornan was formerly Deputy Director at the Development Policy Centre and is currently a senior economist at the World Bank.

Leave a Comment