This report, the first of its kind focusing on security sector governance needs in the Pacific region, maps the key security sector reform challenges facing Pacific Island Countries (PICs). Designed to serve as a resource tool for stakeholders working on building new transparency and oversight mechanisms in the region, the report also outlines the key concepts and good practices associated with effective democratic governance of the security sector. The book focuses on relevant policy frameworks and appropriate oversight mechanisms that security institutions can protect human rights, help prevent conflict and provide an enabling environment for human and economic development by increasing investor and public confidence. This is particularly important for PICs as their economic prospects are heavily dependent on an image that attracts tourists and external investment.

The joint publication by the UNDP Pacific Centre and Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, launched on 10th February 2010 by Sir Peter Kenilorea, Speaker of Solomon Islands National Parliament, is the result of research conducted in Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Tonga and Vanuatu during late 2008 and early 2009 by a DCAF team working with UNDP and Pacific Forum colleagues. The research was validated through a Ministerial-led Regional Conference held in Tonga during April 2009 for government, security sector and civil society representatives, as well as the Forum Regional Security Committee, which endorsed the development of regional and national policies and programming assistance.

At the launch Sir Peter commended the two organisations for “planting the seeds of the new direction to security sector governance in the region and I am certain that it will grow in the years to come.” He added that “security sector governance is rapidly gaining momentum worldwide and the Pacific Islands nations must make full use of the opportunity.”