Overview of our research

DPA researchers investigate some of the most pressing development issues in the contemporary Pacific. DPA’s research framework prioritises study of the relationships between state structures and capabilities, society and societal transformations, and governance in the Pacific.

DPA’s research is structured around a number of research programs which align with the four broad areas of research DPA is leading under the Pacific Research Program. These four research themes are:

Politics and the nature of the state

• Decentralisation and the politics of service delivery
• The political economy of reform
• Elections and electoral politics

Geopolitics and regionalism

• Emerging players
• Regionalism and regional governance

Security, stability and resilience

• Urbanisation, land and natural resource management
• Justice and security
• Bougainville

Gender, social change and inclusion

• Women’s leadership and political participation
• Women’s economic empowerment
• Ending violence against women and girls

DPA researchers also contribute to PRP research on Economic development led by the Development Policy Centre through research on the impacts of labour mobility in the Pacific.