The PIPG officially opened its 4th Conference on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, in Koror, with around sixty participants representing parliaments from across the Pacific region in attendance.

The day commenced with an official opening ceremony featuring addresses by the Honorable Sabino Anastacio, Speaker of the House of Delegates of Palau, and the Honorable Surangel Whipps, Jr., President of the Republic of Palau. Both warmly welcomed the delegations, commending this gathering of Pacific legislative branches—united by a shared ocean—to advocate for common interests. During the opening session of the first working day, they emphasized the crucial role of parliaments as pillars of institutional stability and in promoting human security for the Pacific islanders.

The keynote address of the day was delivered by Dr. Robert Underwood, President Emeritus of the University of Guam and former Member of the U.S. Congress, who focused on the evolution of the concept of human security. He addressed the specific challenges faced by Pacific nations due to their insularity, including environmental, economic, and social threats. Dr. Underwood highlighted that, in this region, human security must extend beyond territorial defense to encompass the protection of individuals from risks associated with climate change, poverty, and disease. He proposed continuous dialogue, community knowledge development, and autonomous resource management as alternative solutions to tackle these issues.

The first working session, titled “People-Centered Development and Human Security: Pacific Island Countries in the Face of Global Changes,” explored how the “2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent” could strengthen human security through people-focused development policies, the preservation of Pacific culture, and regional integration. Discussions also addressed the impact of globalization on cultural identities and the need for political solutions that protect and promote local cultures.

Each delegation’s presentations on the progress made in implementing the commitments of the Fangatapu Declaration marked the afternoon session. During this session, Mr. Antony GEROS presented the achievements in French Polynesia in combating climate change, environmental protection, and biodiversity conservation, as well as advancements in renewable energy and innovation. He provided concrete examples of actions taken to reduce environmental impact, such as the ban on plastic products and the creation of marine protected areas. He also highlighted developments in energy regulations and the regional and international partnerships that support these initiatives, particularly through funding and collaborations with international organizations. Mr. GEROS concluded by calling for a stronger PIPG to enhance transparency, accountability, and inclusiveness within Pacific parliamentary institutions.

The day ended with an official visit to Palau’s National Congress, allowing delegates to gain a firsthand understanding of the host country’s legislative institutions.