A Study On The Activities Of The Peace Corps In Micronesia

Micronesia has profound historical origins with the United States.After World War II,it became the trusteeship of the United States and was deeply influenced by the United States in political,economic,and cultural aspects.In 1966,the United States began to send Peace Corps volunteers to Micronesia to provide assistance as needed.The volunteers taught people knowledge and skills to promote the economic and cultural development of the island countries.At the same time,it also boosted the United States positive rating in the island countries.It imperceptibly spread American culture and values,and enhanced the soft power of the United States in the Pacific island countries.Peace Corps assistance in Micronesia mainly involves education,health,economics,community development,youth development,and environmental protection.When entering Micronesia,the Peace Corps focused on local education,especially English education in primary and secondary schools.However,with the development of local society the local government’s wishes changed,and the focus of the Peace Corps has also constantly changed.In the 1970 s,the Peace Corps have been making unremitting efforts in agriculture,health,community development,and vocational education.In the early 1980 s,volunteers started to work in health,forestry and fisheries.All volunteers undertake the responsibility of teaching English in primary schools and as well as working on some secondary activities designated by local government.English as a second language is becoming the Peace Corps’ core projects in Palau and the Federated States of Micronesia.In the 1990 s,programs such as small business,teacher training,and Marine fisheries are getting more attention.Among them,the republic of the Marshall islands became independent in 1986,and the Peace Corps started to provide similar independence assistance.In June 1996,country assistance to the Marshall islands ended.In 2018,President Xi Jinping held meetings with leaders of Pacific island countries,and successively signed cooperative documents on jointly building the "Belt and Road" deepening cooperation in various areas and enhancing friendship.The study of the Peace Corps’ activities in Micronesia can provide some reference for China’s assistance and cooperation to this region.