Abstract:
The dilemma posed by the gap between global thinking and local living is examined in relation to the constitutional reform process in Nauru. My article looks at the role of UNDP as a global player and how, in partnership with the local political elites, designed and administered a reform process which was defeated by the voters during the referendum in February 2010. The case illustrates the consequences of attempting to apply global principles and methods of reform in an isolated community whose traumatic colonial history created deep anguish and suspicion of outsiders, and provides some lessons for constitutional reform in the Pacific states.