THE ROLE OF THE UNITED STATES IN THE SOUTH PACIFIC AT THE TURN OF THE 20TH AND 21ST CENTURIES - MAINTAINING THE SPHERE OF INFLUENCE BY PROVIDING SECURITY TO MICROSTATES?

Year 2020, Volume: 12 Issue: 1 - 12th Year Special Issue, 122 - 138, 31.03.2020

Joanna Siekiera

https://doi.org/10.26791/sarkiat.606122

Abstract

Following two waves of decolonization in the
Pacific (1962-1970 and 1974-1980), the situation of island states in this
region have changed radically. Finally independent microstates have gained their
legal international opportunity to decide on own internal and regional policy. Nonetheless,
post-colonial relations in the region were largely influenced by the Pacific
Ring powers, led by the United States, which consequently created a unique
local system. Such struggle in order to uphold influence in the Pacific occurred
in the post-war period initially between the USA and Japan. Two imperial
approaches emerged from these international movements, which were implemented
in the diplomacy of both countries: “New world order” and its Japanese response
– “New regional order”. Government in Washington maintains close relations with
states in Oceania by changing their formal names (free association, unincorporated
and unorganized territory, unincorporated and organized territory, commonwealth
within the USA). In addition to organizational or scientific activity, the most
important element of American policy towards the states in Oceania is the regional
security shaping. The military presence of the US troops, regular RIMPAC naval
exercises, growing diplomatic and economic investments in the South Pacific islands
consolidate the image of a just sheriff of the new world order, a defender of
young democracies on the verge of poverty struggling with civilization
problems.

Keywords

USA, Oceania, South Pacific, Security in the Pacific, Sphere of Influence

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