In the volatile post-Cold-War era, the small, vulnerable states of the Pacific Islands region face several challenges to their security and sovereignty. This text focuses on these challenges, as part of an examination of security and defence issues in the region. It considers trends and issues since the mid-1980s, and the uncertain prospects leading into the beginning of the next century. The book emphasizes political, diplomatic and military matters, including the role of external powers, but also considers environmental, economic and resources issues.