The Engage the Pacific Act directs the U.S. government to strengthen its engagement with civil society organizations across the Pacific Islands region, including faith-based groups, media outlets, environmental organizations, and educational institutions. The bill establishes a new interagency committee led by the State Department to coordinate efforts with these organizations and requires the committee to submit a comprehensive strategy within 180 days addressing current initiatives, resource needs, and how engagement aligns with U.S. national security priorities. The legislation also authorizes funding for three key programs: four million dollars annually from 2026 through 2030 for the Indo-Pacific Media Advancement Program to support independent journalism and counter disinformation, ten million dollars annually for the same period for a new Pacific Islands workforce development program offering training in sectors like construction and fisheries, and resources for expanding American Spaces facilities where Pacific Islanders can learn English and engage with American culture. The bill requires the State Department to report on strategic communications efforts in the Pacific Islands and the current state of American Spaces within 180 days, and directs the agency responsible for international development to report on the workforce program within one year.
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