April 12, 2024
Matthew Tukaki: What is AUKUS and should Aotearoa join:
What is AUKUS and should Aotearoa join:
Matthew Tukaki
In September 2021, the geopolitical landscape of the Indo-Pacific region experienced a seismic shift with the announcement of AUKUS – the Australia, UK, and US security pact. AUKUS, an acronym derived from the three participating nations, aims to enhance security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, primarily focusing on defence and technology sharing. This ground breaking agreement has sparked intense discussions worldwide, raising questions about its implications for regional stability, the balance of power, and global diplomacy. This is important to understand because of both the historical and current role New Zealand plays in the Pacific. It’s important to Māori because of our tripartite of relationships in the Pacific and not just our historical ties but our cultural and trade ties. People often describe Māori as being of the Pacific. There is discussion ongoing about New Zealand joining what is pillar two so I thought id take some time to unpack and explain what AUKUS is:
The foundation of AUKUS can be traced back to the shared concerns of its member states regarding China’s rising influence and assertive behaviour in the Indo-Pacific. As Beijing’s military capabilities and territorial ambitions grow, traditional alliances have sought to adapt and fortify their strategic positions in the region. AUKUS represents a proactive response to these evolving dynamics, signalling a commitment to uphold the rules-based order and preserve regional security.
At its core, AUKUS aims to foster closer defence and technological collaboration among its members. The pact is centred around the development of advanced capabilities, including but not limited to nuclear-powered submarines, to bolster maritime security and deter potential threats. By leveraging their respective expertise and resources, Australia, the UK, and the US seek to enhance interoperability, intelligence sharing, and technological innovation, thereby strengthening their defence posture in the Indo-Pacific.
One of the most significant aspects of AUKUS is the agreement to cooperate on the development of nuclear-powered submarines for the Royal Australian Navy. This decision represents a strategic shift for Australia, which has traditionally relied on conventionally powered submarines. Nuclear propulsion offers several advantages, including greater endurance, speed, and stealth, making it a formidable asset for maritime operations, particularly in the vast expanse of the Indo-Pacific.
However, the decision to pursue nuclear-powered submarines has not been without controversy. It has prompted debates over nuclear proliferation, environmental concerns, and the potential escalation of regional tensions. Additionally, the AUKUS announcement led to the cancellation of Australia’s previous submarine deal with France, causing diplomatic strain between the two countries. Managing these geopolitical repercussions will be crucial as AUKUS moves forward.
The emergence of AUKUS has significant implications for regional security dynamics and broader geopolitical trends. By deepening their defence ties, the member states aim to counterbalance China’s growing influence and promote stability in the Indo-Pacific. Moreover, AUKUS underscores the enduring importance of alliances and partnerships in addressing complex security challenges.
However, the pact also faces a set of challenges that must be navigated carefully. Balancing the imperatives of security cooperation with the need to avoid provoking conflict or exacerbating existing tensions will require deft diplomacy and strategic foresight. Additionally, ensuring transparency and accountability in the development and deployment of advanced military technologies will be essential to maintain trust among allies and partners.
As AUKUS moves from announcement to implementation, its long-term implications for regional security and global geopolitics will become clearer. The success of the pact will depend not only on the development of tangible defence capabilities but also on the strength of the relationships and partnerships it fosters. AUKUS represents a bold step forward in the pursuit of a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific, but its ultimate impact will be shaped by the complex interplay of strategic interests, diplomatic engagements, and geopolitical realities in the years to come.
So should Aotearoa join? In my opinion, as far as pillar two goes – yes. As Māori we have significant interests in the Pacific, we always have. We need to protect them, and I do believe we can bring a uniquely Māori lens to it – but there is a caveat – at the same time we need to ensure our Pacific whānau are on board.
Matthew Tukaki is Chairman of the National Māori Authority and former Australian Representative to the UNGC, General Manager UMA Broadcasting Ltd, Ngāi Te Rangi