The Soviet Union in the South Pacific

George K. Tanham

Expert InsightsPublished 1988

This paper describes the effective campaign by the Soviet Union to gain influence in the South Pacific. Specifically, it discusses pacts, exchanges, etc., between the Soviet Union and South Pacific nations; Soviet manipulation to increase anti-colonialism and other anti-Western feelings; the Independent and Nuclear-Free Pacific movement; the influence of churches in achieving Vanuatu's independence; and the influence of unions in achieving Fiji's. The author laments Western complaisance and recommends that the West recapture lost ground by responding more favorably to the islanders' experiences, needs, and wishes.

Document Details

  • Copyright: RAND Corporation
  • Availability: Web Only
  • Year: 1988
  • Pages: 20
  • Document Number: P-7431

Citation

Chicago Manual of Style

Tanham, George K., The Soviet Union in the South Pacific. Santa Monica, CA: RAND Corporation, 1988. https://www.rand.org/pubs/papers/P7431.html.
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