Leadership Development in the Police and Military Forces of the South Pacific

Perhaps as never before, the leaders of Pacific nations are expected to lead their people through a time of unprecedented political instability, existential threats and strategic fragility. Current and emerging Pacific leaders are judicious and respect national sovereignty. Behind, and often succeeding, the elected leadership are police and military leaders whose involvement in national and regional affairs continues to grow. Their remit extends well beyond maintaining domestic order, preserving regional peace and coordinating international disaster responses. They are significant community leaders with prominent roles in their villages and islands, exerting considerable influence and decision-making over internal disputes and inter-island politics. Conscious of the additional strategic, managerial and intercultural burdens they bear, police and military leaders from across the Pacific have expressed a desire for enhanced professional development that is tailored to meet their specific needs and challenges. In this dissertation I critically evaluate the present provision of leadership development opportunities for Pacific police and military and whether the courses and programs on offer are ‘fit-for-purpose’. Given the unique role of police and military leaders in the Pacific and the geo-strategic importance of the region, it is not surprising that many countries have been willing to offer assistance. The Australian government has committed over $A100 million annually over the next five years to develop professional skills among Pacific police and military leaders. This is a fraction of the total investment with countries including New, Zealand France, China and the United States all competing for recognition. Notwithstanding the breadth and depth of international assistance, the efficacy of the programs being offered has not been the subject of either close or continuing attention. None of the countries offering professional development opportunities can say with confidence that their efforts have been ...