Law and Justice in Small Island Developing States: Lessons from Niue

This book systematically identifies the challenges and features of law and development, as faced by small island developing states (SIDS). The book contextualizes this through the case study of Niue, a self-governing state in free association with New Zealand since 1974.

The book surveys literature to discuss the features and vulnerabilities of SIDS and the challenges of law and development in these contexts. It then analyses the case of Niue and covers the current situation regarding the rule of law and access to justice on the island. It further analyses the impact of COVID-19 on the fragility of the Niuean justice system. The book considers the case study of Niue and discusses how rule of law assistance is rendered in the Pacific region. It discusses previous law and justice projects implemented by international organizations and bilateral donors, and recommends ways forward to improve human rights and access to justice in these vulnerable states.

This book will appeal to scholars of law and development, rule of law, and Pacific law. It will also provide a comprehensive resource on Niuean law for residents and legal practitioners.

Mana Takahashi is an Associate Professor of Faculty of Global Liberal Arts, Kanda University of International Studies (KUIS) in Japan. She received her Ph.D. in Comparative Law from Nagoya University in 2018. Her research interests are Law and Development, Global Governance, and Oceania Regional Studies.

Kahealani Sinahemana Hekau is a law practitioner and a member of the Niue Assembly. She has contributed to ＂South Pacific Land Systems＂ and ＂Legal Systems of the Pacific - Introducing sixteen gems＂ and published in the ＂Comparative Law Journal of the Pacific＂ on governance.