Marginality in the South Pacific – the Example of Niue

Abstract

This paper examines the case of Niue, a small raised atoll with a population of under 1500 that is self-governing in free association with New Zealand. Its marginality in terms of physical and economic isolation, small size and harsh environment is pronounced. However, it has survived with relatively high living standards and a range of livelihood options for its population. The paper assesses Niue's marginality and analyses its strategies for survival and development, focusing on the manner in which it has negotiated sovereignty.

Reflections on conspicuous sustainability: Creating Small Island Dependent States (SIDS) through Ostentatious Development Assistance (ODA)?

“…Much literature has explored geostrategic factors that contribute to islands' propensity for attracting and/or receiving ODA (e.g. Grydehøj, 2018;Overton & Murray, 2014;Baldacchino, 2006;Bertram, 2006;Poirine, 1998;Baldacchino, 1993;Bertram & Watters, 1986). It is thus necessary to consider the interests and motivations of both donor bodies and island peoples.…”

Hearing voices: colonialism, outsider perspectives, island and Indigenous issues, and publishing ethics

“…Most prominently, Island Studies Journal 11(2) included Androus and Greymorning's (2016) trenchant critique of those who seek to use the colonizer's administrative apparatus to achieve Indigenous goals, a paper that is at once incisive and self-defeating. These authors argue that the empowerment provided by the kinds of creative practice of nonsovereignty advocated by some in island studies (Baldacchino, 2010a(Baldacchino, , 2010b(Baldacchino, , 2006Grydehøj, 2018Grydehøj, , 2016bOverton & Murray, 2014;Prinsen et al, 2017) is illusory because any submission to metropolitan power structures denies an inalienable Indigenous sovereignty that demands political independence.…”