Book Review : The New Pacific Diplomacy

Abstract

The new Pacific diplomacy provides a fascinating look at the changing nature of the foreign affairs of Pacific small island states over the last decade. It is the most important work to be published on this topic so far, and has been influential in its own right in establishing the narrative of Pacific island states as assertive, independent, innovative and influential voices on the international stage. The edited volume brings together chapters from 23 authors, edited by two wellknown international relations scholars based at the University of the South Pacific. It is both an outstanding and inclusive line-up, with several Pacific island leaders (including prime ministers and presidents), academics, students and civil servants providing contributions. Importantly, a majority of the contributors are themselves Pacific islanders: a fact that distinguishes the book from much of the literature on the region.