The Mandate
The Royal Oceania Institute (ROI) is an independent, Tongan think tank. ROI’s goals are to support and pursue Pacific-centered, ethical, fact-based research and analysis. It will also facilitate open dialogue on topics relevant to community, sustainable development, and regional relations.
ROI grew out of an identifiable need for a non-partisan, permanent, accessible and reputable platform for building confidence and cooperation, and encouraging broad information sharing and understanding. One of the many advantages of this approach is that through better research and open dialogue, investments in development have a better chance of reaching their full potential for the benefit of all involved.
ROI will stringently pursue a policy of independence. Funding will not influence the direction, integrity or quality of its research and operations. We are deeply committed to ROI’s vision for a resilient, prosperous, secure and independent Tonga in a strong, prosperous and secure Pacific.
Royal Patron
The Royal Oceania Institute is greatly honoured to have His Majesty The King assent to His Royal Highness The Crown Prince Tupouto‘a ‘Ulukalala as Royal Patron of the think tank. The Crown Prince holds a deep appreciation for literature and reading, world history, international relations and the value of research.
Chairperson
Lord Fakafanua is one of the youngest Members of Parliament in Tongan history. He first assumed the role of Speaker of Parliament at the age of 27 and still presides over Tonga’s legislature today. His strong advocacy for data driven policies within the government greatly aligns with the think tanks key visions and mandate.
Thought Leaders
Our board consists of a diverse group of distinguished thought leaders from a range of backgrounds. This group draws from their collective experiences in Law, Commerce, Academia, Media, Finance, Education and Civil Societies. We are also honoured to have His Eminence Cardinal Mafi contribute as a well respected community leader.