As China’s coercive influence tightens around the Pacific islands, Australia finds itself in a high-stakes contest for regional influence. Beijing’s aggressive tactics, including debt-trap diplomacy, opaque security agreements and the erosion of democratic values, threaten to destabilise the region and undermine Australia’s strategic interests.

While traditional diplomatic tools have their place, sports diplomacy can be a potent weapon in Australia’s arsenal to counter China’s coercive influence and strengthen ties with Pacific Island nations.

The strategic significance of Pacific island nations to Australia cannot be overstated. They are not merely neighbours; they could be Australia’s front line. China’s growing presence in the region, exemplified by the April 2022 security pact with the Solomon Islands, poses a direct challenge to Australia’s security interests.

Australia’s response to China’s growing assertiveness has been largely reactive and focused on traditional diplomatic tools and aid programs. However, these measures are proving increasingly inadequate.

Sports diplomacy, the use of sports to influence diplomatic relations, offers a compelling solution.

The power of sports diplomacy to transcend political tensions was exemplified by the cricket diplomacy between India and Pakistan in the early 2000s. Following the 1999 Kargil War, cricket matches between the two nations acted as a catalyst for dialogue and de-escalation. The series of matches, held in both countries, generated immense goodwill and created a platform for political leaders to engage in discussions on a range of issues. This diplomatic breakthrough, initiated by a shared passion for cricket, ultimately led to a ceasefire and a renewed commitment to peace talks.

China’s sports diplomacy is characterised by stadium construction and events sponsorship. These grand gestures and monetary incentives often lack the authenticity and personal connection that underpin successful sports diplomacy. So, it struggles to replicate Australia’s successes in supporting Pacific sport.

Furthermore, China’s human rights record and perceived lack of respect for democratic values undermine its efforts to win hearts and minds through sports in these countries, which suffer from their own democratic deficits.

Canberra needs to effectively counter Beijing’s narrative and developmental approach by offering a genuine alternative to Pacific Island nations.

In the Pacific islands, where sports hold immense cultural and social significance, this approach has the potential to be particularly effective. Rugby league and rugby union are deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of the Pacific islands. These sports provide a sense of identity, community and pride.

Australia, moreover, already has a solid foundation in sports diplomacy in the Pacific. The PacificAus Sports program, launched in 2018, supports Pacific athletes through coaching and development, and promotes gender equality and social inclusion through sports. The NRL’s Pacific Outreach program has produced numerous stars who serve as role models, and foster a sense of connection with Australia.

By investing in sports development and fostering genuine relationships with Pacific Island nations, Australia will gain four advantages. First, it will counter China’s narrative. Sports diplomacy provides a positive and engaging counter-narrative to China’s economic coercion and political interference.

Second, it will strengthen people-to-people links. Sporting exchanges foster cultural understanding and goodwill, builds trust and strengthening bilateral relationships.

Third, it will promote economic development. Sports tourism and related industries create jobs and generate revenue, offering an alternative to Chinese investment.

And, finally, it will enhance Australia’s soft power. A robust sports diplomacy program will bolster Australia’s image as a supportive partner in the region, as opposed to China’s, which inevitably ends up being viewed as the sole benefactor.

With the forthcoming update to the 2019 sports diplomacy strategy, it should build on its successes and include:

—Increased investment in PacificAus Sports. By significantly expanding the program’s reach, it will provide more opportunities for Pacific athletes and coaches to compete at the elite level.

—Expansion of sporting partnerships. By partnering with other sporting organizations, such as the AFL and Cricket Australia, to promote their sports in the Pacific islands, they will gain new fans, players, and teams to compete against.

—Focus on grassroots development. Investment in grassroots sports programs will promote physical activity, healthy lifestyles and community development, strengthening the stability of the islands over the long-term.

—Diplomatic engagements. Sports diplomacy will offer more chances to engage with local governments, allowing for greater alignment with their priorities and needs.

—Promotion of gender equality and social inclusion. Ensuring that sports diplomacy programs are inclusive and accessible to all, regardless of gender, ethnicity or socioeconomic status, will help to promote social stability into the future.

China’s aggressive pursuit of influence poses a direct threat to Australia’s national interests and regional stability. While traditional diplomacy remains essential, it is no longer sufficient alone. Australia must embrace sports diplomacy as a strategic tool to counter China’s coercive tactics and strengthen its relationship with the Pacific Island nations. By leveraging the power of sports, Australia can build genuine partnerships based on shared values, mutual respect and a love for the game.