The success of politics and political systems in the Pacific Islands is measured by their capacity to deliver development in poor states. We explore this dynamic by looking at the politics of development and the development of politics. In the first half we examine the politics of development, with reference to the impact of colonialism, decolonisation and secessionism; the place of the Island countries in international politics, especially in relation to the rise of China in the Pacific and the response of the USA; the political impact of official development assistance; and tensions between ‘traditional’ and ‘modern’ modes of governance. In the second half we investigate the development of politics, including attempts to engineer development outcomes via constitutions and electoral systems; intervention in Island countries by outside powers such as Australia; the phenomenon of state-building, particularly in ethnically divided societies; and women’s representation in politics.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. understand the diversity of the Pacific region, including its political institutions and prevailing cultures;
2. produce a persuasive argument about the relationship between politics and development in the Pacific Islands; and
3. demonstrate familiarity with the key debates about political challenges in the Pacific region

Item A - ‘Know the Region’ Short Test (10%) [Learning Outcome 1]

Item B - 2,500 word essay (50%) [Learning Outcomes 2, 3]

Item C - Take home examination (2,000 words) (40%) [Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3]

2  lectures and one tutorial per week. Tutorial readings will be available on the course website.

Two first-year courses in Political Science, or Sociology, or Anthropology, or Geography, or Economics, or Economic History, or with the permission of the lecturer.