A dynamic, independent think tank dedicated to elevating public policy discourse, fostering transparent governance, and strengthening democratic values across Palau and the broader region. Compass Point Institute - navigating the turbulent waters of modern times by following the path of trust through truth.
Everything we pursue is oriented around a single question: how to foster and support a resilient, sovereign, open and healthy Palau. We believe that a fundamental starting point is building and sustaining trust through truth.
Elevating informed, evidence-based dialogue on the issues shaping Palau's future, and creating space for rigorous debate outside of partisan pressure.
Promoting accountability, open data, and clear public process across government institutions at the national and state level.
Strengthening the civic foundations — a free press, active civil society, and informed electorate — that safeguard Palau's sovereignty and self-determination.
Compass Point Institute operates independently of any political party or government body. We bring together researchers, practitioners, and community voices to examine the policy questions that matter most to Palau — and to the wider Pacific region it belongs to.
Media coverage of Compass Point Institute.
NTD interviews Compass Point Institute founder Kambes Kesolei on how Palau, one of 12 countries with formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, responds to Beijing’s pressure campaign in the Pacific.
Tia Belau reports that a Compass Point Institute leader moderated a session at the Forum for Democratic Cooperation 2026 in Taipei, an event whose opening featured remarks from Taiwan's Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung.
Island Times covers the January 23, 2026 launch of Compass Point Institute, Palau's first locally founded think tank, led by founder Ongerung Kambes Kesolei, including congratulatory remarks from regional diplomatic missions.
Research and commentary on governance, economic policy, and security in Palau and the wider Pacific.
The Diplomat examines reports that U.S. Pacific Command may pull a planned multi-billion dollar infrastructure project from Yap, the latest sign of strain in U.S. defense negotiations with Compact of Free Association partners in Micronesia.
Conversations on public policy, governance, and democratic values in Palau.