The United Nations Micronesia Policy Brief Series No. 2 Surfing Tsunami Waves: Turbulent Geopolitical Risks and Micronesia

Characterized by a combination of small government ideology, protectionist trade measures and reduced international security commitments. These shifts are reshaping the global political and economic order, with significant implications for Micronesia. While direct impacts may be limited due to low trade volumes and existing exemptions, the region remains highly vulnerable to second-order effects such as reduced aid, inflationary pressures and disruptions in tourism and remittances. The authors argue that Micronesia’s structural fragility and dependence on external support leave it exposed to the ripple effects of global instability, likening its position to “surfing tsunami-like waves” with limited control.