In this bulletin:
1. PACIFIC — ‘If it’s not cultural, what is it?’ Fiame questions use of matai titles amid Luxon controversy
2. PALAU — “Pacific’s Candidate”: Palau nominates disability advocate to UN Rights body
3. PACIFIC — Fiji climate negotiator says Pacific voices must be heard on the global stage
4. PACIFIC — Cook Islands welcomes appointment of Fiji Honorary Consul
5. FIJI — Inter-ministerial cooperation to tackle growing drug threat
6. PACIFIC — “We can share ideas and work on cross-border stories”: Pacific journalists seize learning, collaboration opportunities in Australia visit
7. FIJI — ‘All Fijians safe as tensions rise in Middle East
8. PACNEWS BIZ — “Unconscionably Excessive?” Palau House flags fuel price surge for legal review
9. PACNEWS BIZ — NZ quota opens in April
10. PACNEWS BIZ — Ports must brace for global shocks, says Minister Singh
11. PACNEWS DIGEST — A global wake-up call to organised fraud
12. PACNEWS DIGEST — Gulf Conflict Sparks Economic Risks for Fiji and the Pacific
13. PACNEWS DIGEST — Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Pays Tribute to Former SG, Sir Noel Levi
14. PACNEWS DIGEST — Measuring impact of sustainable Ocean governance for Kiribati through Climate and Biodiversity-Smart Marine Spatial planning indicators
15. PACNEWS DIGEST — Cook Islands joins Pacific partners to advance climate and ocean priorities at GEF workshop
PAC – POLITICS: RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS 3: Thu 19 Mar 2026
‘If it’s not cultural, what is it?’ Fiame questions use of matai titles amid Luxon controversy
APIA, 19 MARCH 2026 (RNZ PACIFIC) — Samoa’s former Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa says chiefly titles are culturally significant and should not be given to foreign prime ministers.
Mata’afa made the comment following the commotion over New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon being honoured as a matai on Monday.
Luxon was bestowed the Tuisinavemauluomoto’otua title by the village of Apia.
Samoan Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt had reportedly made fun of Luxon requesting a chiefly title, ahead of his arrival in Apia on Sunday.
Luxon’s office strongly denied this, so La’auli tried to walk back the political blunder with an apologetic statement.
The Samoa Observer reported that La’auli had a late-night phone call from the head of Samoa’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs informing him that Luxon wanted to call off the matai ceremony after “too much interference on social media”.
Opposition leader Tuila’epa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi, who is also a former prime minister, relayed what he called was an embarrassing gaff by La’auli on air.
“He was joking; Prime Minister of New Zealand asked for a matai title, we did not initiate it, I will have to use this occasion to demand from NZ other rights such as easier permits to enter New Zealand.”
In a joint press conference in Samoa with La’auli this week, Luxon was asked what he thought of his counterpart saying he had asked for the title.
“What I’d just say is I think the prime minister addressed, you know, we we’ve worked our way through that issue, as you’ve seen in the last few hours, and what I’d say is important is our conversation has been about how we take our relationship forward.
“And so, I appreciate there was some miscommunication in all of that, but we’ve got ourselves to the right place, where we are wanting to build our relationship in a deeper way and we want to see these two countries work together.”
Tuila’epa believes the furore over Luxon has damaged La’auli’s image, but stresses that honorary titles are normally given to foreign dignitaries and are not culturally significant.
“Since it is an honorary thing, it is not an issue that should attract a lot of debate under the Land and Titles Act, where titles are hotly contested,” he said.
Mata’afa described La’auli’s comments on air as “regrettable”, however she strongly disagreed with Tuila’epa’s interpretation of honorary titles.
“He’s given out quite a few of those honorary titles, so if it’s not cultural what is it? Political?” she said.
Mata’afa said she has never supported the idea of bestowing foreign dignitaries with chiefly titles.
“Can I just say that personally I have never agreed with that practice but its a practise that other leaders have done.”
She explained that matai titles are familial.
“It is an honorary title presented as a matai title, to say it has no cultural significance is incorrect. I mean we hold titles, these are family heads,” she said.
The former PM noted that New Zealand’s former female prime ministers were not given titles.
“Both Helen Clark and Jacinda Ardern were not bestowed titles, I think they made it quite clear that if that was on the table, it was not their preference. Interesting right, the women leaders vs the male leaders. It’s a bit of a guy thing.”
Two Samoan matai who represent Matautu and Apia villages are now reportedly considering lodging an appeal in court over Luxon’s new title.
Tuila’epa said the move is pointless.
“It’s a waste of time because it is an honorary practice which has been done many times before and there is no basis whatsoever to take the matter to court.” he said
Tuila’epa said the government should have explained to the villages involved exactly what an honorary title meant…. PACNEWS
PALAU – UN RIGHTS BODY: ISLAND TIMES PACNEWS 3: Thu 19 Mar 2026
“Pacific’s Candidate”: Palau nominates disability advocate to UN Rights body
KOROR, 19 MARCH 2026 (ISLAND TIMES) — Palau is stepping up its push for stronger Pacific representation in global human rights decision-making, nominating a leading disability rights advocate to a key United Nations body while rallying regional support during a major international forum.
Speaking at a side event during the 70th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70) on 12 March, officials from across the Pacific emphasised the need to bring global human rights systems closer to island communities. At a side-event, hosted by the Pacific Islands Forum Chair Solomon Islands and the Pacific Community, focused on improving engagement with UN treaty bodies.
Representing Palau, Minister Gustav Aitaro used the platform to advocate for the country’s nominee, Villaney Remengesau, for election to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) for the 2027–2030 term.
“The nomination is a commitment to innovation, bringing the UN treaty body system closer to home while ensuring Pacific voices are heard in the global dialogue,” Aitaro said. He added that Remengesau represents more than just Palau. “She is not just Palau’s candidate; she is our candidate — the Pacific’s candidate.”
The CRPD is one of several UN treaty bodies tasked with monitoring how countries implement international human rights obligations, including commitments under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Discussions at the CSW70 side event highlighted how these mechanisms often feel distant from Pacific communities, underscoring the need for regional representation.
Participants also referenced the work of the Committee on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, which tracks progress on eliminating discrimination against women and is closely tied to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Goal 5 on gender equality.
A pre-recorded message from Vui Clarence Nelson, senior judge of the Supreme Court of Samoa and the first Pacific Islander to serve on a UN human rights treaty body, reinforced the call for unity.
“Regional representation is crucial,” Nelson said, urging Pacific nations to rally behind Palau’s nomination to ensure the realities of island communities are reflected in global policymaking.
Palau’s nominee, Villaney Remengesau, brings more than 20 years of experience in disability rights advocacy and inclusive development at national, regional and international levels. A woman with a disability herself, she has been a leading force behind transformative reforms in Palau.
In 2024, she was named the Palau Media Council’s Most Impactful Person of the Year, recognised for her role in advancing landmark legislation, including the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (RPPL 11-36). The law established a national coordinating committee and an Office of Persons with Disabilities, both aimed at strengthening policy implementation and inclusion.
Remengesau played a central role in shaping the legislation, helping unify stakeholders and accelerate initiatives such as Palau’s first National Disability Policy. Her work builds on decades of advocacy, including efforts by organisations like OMEKESANG and long-standing support programmes such as the Palau Severely Disabled Assistance Fund.
“This achievement is a testament to decades of hard work and the collective voice of the disability community in Palau,” Remengesau said in a previous statement.
Her leadership has also contributed to broader initiatives, including strengthening parent advocacy networks and aligning Palau with international standards under the CRPD framework.
The CSW70 side event drew representatives from countries including Tuvalu, Fiji and Palau, highlighting growing regional cooperation.
Officials said such gatherings are critical for sharing strategies, building partnerships and ensuring Pacific priorities are reflected in global systems that shape human rights policy.
For Palau, the nomination of Remengesau signals both national progress and a broader regional ambition: to ensure Pacific voices are not only heard but represented at the highest levels of international decision-making…. PACNEWS
PAC – CLIMATE CHANGE: RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS 3: Thu 19 Mar 2026
Fiji climate negotiator says Pacific voices must be heard on the global stage
NEW YORK, 19 MARCH 2026 (RNZ PACIFIC) — Fijian youth climate negotiator Talei Cavu says it is important to hear Pacific voices on climate change on the global stage.
This year is shaping up to be another big one for Cavu. Coming off the back of COP30 in Belem, Brazil, where she was the coordinator for the Pacific for the Just Transition thematic priority, she kicks off 2026 in New York City.
Relocating from her home in Suva, where Cavu works as the Ocean Officer for the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, she joins the ranks of young Pacific professionals selected for the prestigious Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) Fellowship.
With international climate change negotiations already under her belt, Cavu is excited at the prospect of further sharpening her skillset in the space.
In an interview, Cavu shared the motivations behind her work. With roots in Nukuni, Ono-i-lau, she grew up and spent most of her life in Fiji’s capital.
She said she was always fascinated by her grandmother’s stories.
“Sometimes she’d say, ‘here in the city you take classes to learn how to swim, back in the village you were thrown into the deep end and that’s how your learned how to swim’.”
In the same way, Cavu speaks about how she entered the climate change arena.
“I didn’t foresee myself being a climate negotiator,” she said.
“I joined the Ministry as an intern under the SPC (PAcific Community) coordinated Early Career Ocean Professional Programme, I had no prior experience working in government and I didn’t know about the existing policies that guided the work.”
Fast forward to today, and Cavu leads on Just Transition, a priority for the Pacific that ensures countries shift to a low carbon economy, in a fair, inclusive way and in which communties are not left behind.
Cavu highlights the importance of this role in carrying the lived experiences of your people with you.
“Our elders and traditional knowledge holders often are not present when you go to these big conferences on the global stage to share those views. Being that voice is a huge responsibility. A privilege, but also a big responsibility to carry”.
Pacific negotiators need sustainable and long-term support, not only during the United Nations annual climate talks (Conference of Parties or COP), but throughout the whole negotiation cycle.
The AOSIS Fellowship accomplishes this through its support to early career professionals.
Cavu said the programme will strengthen her negotiations skills, drafting text, identifying key issues and building alliances. These are critical during COPs, where decisions are shaped in real time and language has lasting impacts.
Pacific delegations are often small at international negotiations and are still expected to take part in many discussions at the same time.
With 200 agenda items across the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), it is not possible to follow everything, so the Pacific focuses on 14 key areas.
And to strengthen their influence, Pacific Island nations are part of AOSIS, a negotiating group of 39 countries from the Caribbean, Pacific, Indian Ocean, and South China Sea. Through this coalition, countries with shared interests work together and advocate for stronger action on the global stage.
“The relationships and trust built through the programme will help to strengthen coordination and solidarity,” Cavu said.
“When the Pacific with AOSIS speak cohesively, we amplify our influence beyond our size. That solidarity is powerful,” she said.
The fellowship reports that 90 percent of its participants return home after the programme and continue serving their countries. More than half of the alumni continue to take part in UN climate negotiations.
Cavu is one of many Pacific fellows that have joined their national negotiations team and is a testament to young Pacific people leading the charge for climate justice, despite the region being responsible for negligible emissions at just 0.02 percent of global contributions.
The Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) communications and outreach adviser Nanette Woonton puts into perspective the continuous efforts of young Pacific people and early career professionals in international negotiations.
“When I first started about two decades ago, the negotiations itself and delegations attending were much smaller, but we would often see young Pacific youth be part and parcel of national delegations,” Woonton said.
“Today, I’ve seen a real growth of young people in the space. They organise protests and carry our Pacific voices to the fore, with some of them receiving global recognition.”
Climate change is not a distant concept for the Pacific, it is something that communities live with, and as more young Pacific people enter the climate policy and negotiations space, Cavu said, adding that this should be the basis for any young Pacific person looking to get into the space.
“It’s about knowing who you are, knowing that your voices matters, not some day, because we are so used to saying someday.
“Why not today? Your voice matters today because when you walk into a room, you have a seat at the table because you are speaking from a lived experience,” she said…. PACNEWS
PAC – DIPLOMACY: COOK ISLANDS GOVT PACNEWS 3: Thu 19 Mar 2026
Cook Islands welcomes appointment of Fiji Honorary Consul
RAROTONGA, 19 MARCH 2026 (COOK ISLANDS GOVT) — Cook Islands Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration (MFAI), Wednesday, welcomed the Government of Fiji’s appointment of Wayne Insimo as the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Fiji to the Cook Islands.
This designation marks an important milestone in the relationship between the Cook Islands and Fiji, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening regional partnerships and expanding practical cooperation across a range of areas of mutual interest.
While the Cook Islands has long hosted Honorary Consuls from a number of partner countries, including France, Spain, and Germany, this is Fiji’s first such representation in the Cook Islands.
This development builds on a strong foundation of bilateral cooperation between the two countries. In 2022, the Cook Islands established its High Commission in Suva, Fiji, followed by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Development Cooperation in 2023, which provides a framework for collaboration across a range of priority areas.
Insimo’s appointment reflects the confidence of the Government of Fiji in his ability to represent its interests and support its nationals in the Cook Islands, while contributing to closer relations between the two countries.
MFAI acknowledges the presence of Eileen Pickering, First Secretary at Fiji’s High Commission in New Zealand, who attended the occasion, underscoring the importance Fiji places on this designation and its relationship with the Cook Islands.
Acting Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Immigration, Teuru Passfield, welcomed the appointment, stating: “The appointment of Fiji’s first Honorary Consul to the Cook Islands reflects the strong and enduring relationship between our two countries. It demonstrates the Fiji Government’s confidence in Wayne Insimo, and the trust and partnership we share as Pacific neighbours. This will further strengthen people-to-people ties between our countries, as well as regional cooperation.”
Insimo’s role is expected to enhance consular assistance for Fijian nationals in the Cook Islands, while also facilitating greater engagement between our governments, private sector, and communities.
As Pacific neighbours with longstanding cultural and regional ties, the Cook Islands and Fiji share a vision of a connected, resilient, and prosperous region. The Cook Islands Government looks forward to building on this partnership with Fiji and deepening cooperation for the benefit of both countries and their people…. PACNEWS
FIJI – DRUG FIGHT: FBC NEWS PACNEWS 3: Thu 19 Mar 2026
Inter-ministerial cooperation to tackle growing drug threat
SUVA, 19 MARCH 2026 (FBC NEWS) — A whole-of-government response remains critical to confronting growing illicit drug trafficking in Fiji.
This message was delivered during an inter-ministerial engagement held this week between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Policing and Communications.
Permanent Secretary for Policing Berenado Daveta outlined priorities for protecting communities through strengthened intelligence, enhanced communications, and more effective law enforcement coordination.
Daveta highlighted ongoing training to strengthen investigative capacity and operational readiness to dismantle drug trafficking networks.
He stresses that the fight requires decisive enforcement, stronger information-sharing, and sustained vigilance across all sectors.
He says addressing the issue demands a united national response that strengthens public awareness, supports police initiatives, enhances border protection, and deepens collaboration among security agencies.
Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs Dr Raijeli Taga reaffirmed her Ministry’s commitment to supporting initiatives that strengthen information exchange and policy coordination to advance national security.
The session concluded with a discussion on practical ways ministries can reinforce national efforts and existing enforcement actions.
MFAET continues to work with domestic and international partners to share expertise and strengthen cooperation on issues of national and global importance…. PACNEWS
PAC – MEDIA: ISLAND TIMES PACNEWS 3: Thu 19 Mar 2026
“We can share ideas and work on cross-border stories”: Pacific journalists seize learning, collaboration opportunities in Australia visit
CANBERRA, 19 MARCH 2026 (ISLAND TIMES) — “It’s not only about learning how systems in Australia work, including Parliament and the media, but also about networking with colleagues from across the Pacific,” said Rashneel Kumar, editor of Cook Islands News, as journalists from across the region immersed themselves in Australia’s first International Media Visit.
The seven-day programme, launched by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, is bringing together media professionals from Palau, Vanuatu, Tuvalu, the Cook Islands, Tonga, Pohnpei in the Federated States of Micronesia, Kiribati and Nauru—offering participants a rare opportunity to build connections, exchange ideas and strengthen regional reporting.
For Palauan participants, Elilai Rengiil and Summer Kennard, nominated by the Palau Media Council, the experience has gone beyond observation—opening doors for collaboration and reflection on how journalism can better serve Pacific communities.
The programme began in Brisbane with a Welcome to Country ceremony led by Refiti, a descendant of the Turrbal people, who performed a traditional song. Rhan, a Kooma and Kunja man, followed with a didgeridoo performance, grounding participants in Australia’s Indigenous culture. The day concluded with a shared experience at a National Rugby League match, allowing delegates to connect informally.
On the second day, journalists stepped inside the Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s Brisbane headquarters, where they met reporters, toured the newsroom and engaged directly with media professionals. Conversations with ABC journalist Liam Fox and producers of “Nesia Daily,” a podcast focused on Pacific and Australian stories, gave participants practical insight into storytelling approaches that resonate across borders.
Delegates also visited the Pinkenba Training Hub, supported by the Australian Federal Police, where they learned about the Pacific Policing Initiative and the Pacific Police Support Group. The programme highlighted regional cooperation in law enforcement, including participation by Palauan officers and support for the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau.
A visit to an Australian Aid humanitarian warehouse further expanded participants’ understanding of disaster preparedness and response—an issue that directly affects many Pacific nations. Journalists explored how aid is mobilised and coordinated across the region and globally, offering story angles that connect local experiences to international systems.
For Elilai Rengiil, editor and journalist at Tia Belau, the visit provided both inspiration and a critical lens on Pacific media practices.
“It’s important to learn different perspectives and see how our media aligns with what’s being done in Australia, especially in covering press conferences and engaging with the government,” Rengiil said. “It also shows where we may need to grow, such as having better data on our diaspora and understanding how our people abroad support communities back home.”
Participants said the programme is helping them identify shared regional challenges—such as drug trafficking, climate change and disaster response—and explore how collaborative journalism can address them.
By fostering connections and exposing journalists to new systems, the initiative is equipping Pacific media professionals with tools and partnerships that extend beyond the visit.
The delegation is scheduled to continue to Canberra on the third day, where they will visit Parliament House as part of their ongoing engagement with Australia’s institutions…. PACNEWS
FIJI – MIDDLE EAST: PACNEWS PACNEWS 3: Thu 19 Mar 2026
All Fijians safe as tensions rise in Middle East
SUVA, 19 MARCH 2026 (PACNEWS) — The situation in the Middle East is tense and Fiji is watching closely.
In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade said it is tracking a “highly volatile and unpredictable security situation,” with recent escalations adding to instability across the region.
Despite the risks, there is some reassurance.
“All Fijian nationals in the region — including diaspora members, Embassy staff, and peacekeepers — remain safe and accounted for, with no reports of injuries.”
Fiji’s embassies in Abu Dhabi and Jerusalem are still operating and providing consular support.
But the government is urging caution. Fijians in the region are being told to think about leaving if they can do so safely.
“Fijians are encouraged to consider voluntary evacuation when it is safe.”
Travel routes may still be open through nearby countries like Jordan and Saudi Arabia, but officials say people must confirm flights directly and be ready to adjust plans.
There is also some flexibility being offered.
“Visa-on-arrival arrangements have been offered by Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, and India to assist with transit and departure.”
Still, travellers are warned to double-check entry rules and stay in contact with Fiji’s nearest embassy.
The strongest warning is on travel itself.
“We strongly advise against all travel to Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Iraq, Iran, Israel, Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen,” the Ministry said.
It also urged people to reconsider non-essential trips to Jordan, Oman, and Saudi Arabia.
Behind the scenes, monitoring continues.
“The Ministry, through the Joint Emergency Operations Centre, continues to monitor developments in real time and review contingency and evacuation plans.”…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
PALAU – FUEL: ISLAND TIMES PACNEWS BIZ: Thu 19 Mar 2026
“Unconscionably Excessive?” Palau House flags fuel price surge for legal review
KOROR, 19 MARCH 2026 (ISLAND TIMES) — “Members of the public have raised concerns regarding the noticeable rise in fuel prices and the resulting impact on consumers, transportation, and businesses throughout the country,” the Palau House of Delegates said in a formal letter urging legal review of recent gasoline price increases.
In a 12 March letter to Attorney General Ernestine Rengiil, Speaker Gibson Kanai said lawmakers are seeking oversight under the Anti-Price Gouging Act of 2002 (RPPL No. 6-22) following a surge in fuel prices that has triggered widespread concern across Palau.
The law prohibits the sale of essential goods at “unconscionably excessive” prices during periods of abnormal market disruption and establishes standards for determining when increases may violate the statute.
Kanai said the House is not making a determination of wrongdoing but is requesting that the Attorney General’s Office monitor the situation and take action if necessary to ensure compliance with the law.
“Given the importance of fuel as a critical consumer commodity affecting transportation, commerce, and daily life within the Republic, the House respectfully requests that your office monitor the current situation,” Kanai wrote.
Fuel prices in Palau have drawn heightened scrutiny in recent weeks as residents report paying significantly more at the pump, raising concerns about broader economic effects.
Lawmakers warned that rising fuel costs could ripple through the economy, particularly in a country heavily dependent on imports. Increased transportation and shipping costs often translate into higher prices for food, household goods, and other essential items.
“Members of the public have expressed concerns that increases in fuel prices may also result in corresponding increases in the prices of imported goods and other essential commodities relied upon daily by Palauan citizens,” the letter stated.
The House emphasised its commitment to protecting consumers while acknowledging that global market conditions — including international fuel prices and supply chain pressures — may be contributing factors beyond local control.
The request stops short of calling for immediate enforcement action but signals growing political attention to fuel pricing and its impact on the cost of living.
The House also asked to be kept informed of any findings or actions taken by the Attorney General’s Office and offered legislative support if needed.
“Should your office require any assistance, collaboration, or legislative support in addressing this matter, please know that the House of Delegates stands ready to assist,” Kanai said.
The Attorney General’s Office has not yet publicly responded to the request…. PACNEWS
PAC – QUOTA: SAMOA OBSERVER PACNEWS BIZ: Thu 19 Mar 2026
NZ quota opens in April
APIA, 19 MARCH 2026 (SAMOA OBSERVER) — New Zealand registrations for the 2026 Samoan Quota and Pacific Access Category (PAC) will open on 1 April at 8 am, offering citizens from the Pacific a pathway to permanent residency in New Zealand.
The Samoan Quota and Pacific Access Category are two longstanding visa programmes that operate through an annual ballot, allowing Pacific nationals to apply for residence in New Zealand. This year, up to 1,100 Samoan citizens, 250 Tongan citizens, 250 Fijian citizens, 75 Kiribati citizens, and 75 Tuvaluan citizens may be invited to apply. Interested individuals can register for the ballot online, with guides available to assist the process.
Online resources, including guides and flyers, are provided in English and Samoan for the Samoan Quota, and in several Pacific languages for the Pacific Access Category, on the “Resident visas for Samoa, Kiribati, Tuvalu, Tonga and Fiji nationals” page. The ballot will close on 30 April at 5 pm.
Moemoe Sene, a prospective applicant, said, “Many people are expressing hope and excitement about the opportunity to apply for the Samoan Quota and Pacific Access. In my opinion, it offers a chance for a better future, with one person noting that it could mean improved job opportunities and education for their children in New Zealand.
“My husband and I have been waiting for the ballot to open, and we will definitely apply this year. It will be the second time we apply for the quota, even though we understand selection is not guaranteed. Many acknowledge that the process depends on luck but still see it as a valuable opportunity worth trying.”
Tomasi Godinet highlighted some of the challenges involved, saying, “The process is stressful due to the uncertainty of being selected, while others pointed out that moving overseas is a major life decision that comes with financial and emotional adjustments.
“There are also concerns about the costs and requirements after selection. Despite this, many agree that these programmes have helped Samoan families over the years, while also expressing hope for more opportunities to be created locally.”
The Samoan Quota and Pacific Access Category have long provided avenues for Pacific families to establish themselves in New Zealand, reflecting both hope and caution as applicants navigate the competitive annual ballot…. PACNEWS
FIJI – PORTS/ECONOMY: FIJI SUN PACNEWS BIZ: Thu 19 Mar 2026
Ports must brace for global shocks, says Minister Singh
SUVA, 19 MARCH 2026 (FIJI SUN) — Fiji’s ports must strengthen resilience and plan ahead to withstand global shocks, with Government warning that the country’s economic stability depends on it.
“To sustain this positive trajectory amidst a changing global landscape, the Government strongly encourages Fiji Ports to engage in proactive planning, ensuring that our ports remain resilient and capable of protecting the national economy during times of uncertainty,” Minister for Public Enterprises Charan Jeath Singh said.
Singh made the remarks during a meeting with the management and Board of Directors of Fiji Ports Terminal Limited, as global geopolitical tensions continue to disrupt trade and drive-up fuel costs.
He said Fiji’s ports remained a critical link in the country’s economy and a key regional shipping hub.
“During such times, our ports serve as critical anchors for our economic stability, and without well-functioning ports, the effects of global shocks would be felt immediately by every Fijian household and business,” he said.
Singh acknowledged ongoing investments to upgrade port infrastructure, improve cargo handling efficiency, strengthen maritime safety standards and enhance operations.
He also stressed the need for forward planning to ensure long-term resilience and sustainability.
He encouraged Fiji Ports to align with global best practices, including sustainability and environmental innovation, noting progress in green port initiatives and ISO certifications.
“We remain committed to assisting Fiji Ports in its efforts to deliver efficient, reliable and sustainable maritime services for the benefit of all Fijians,” Singh said…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
A global wake-up call to organised fraud
BANGKOK, 19 MARCH 2026 (UNODC) — The Sawyers were never really interested in volatile investing. As their retirement age approached, the idea of a low-risk investment for their pension seemed attractive. But one day, after clicking on a seemingly legitimate online advert that offered a reasonable risk-averse plan, they unlocked a process that would lead them to lose over USD 2.5 million.
“The scammer was extraordinarily believable,” Kim Sawyer, former university professor in Melbourne, said. “He had a British accent, used all the right financial market terms and knew how to induce us by appearing credible every time.”
The Sawyers are not an isolated case. Using sophisticated cyber-tools, artificial intelligence and impersonation techniques, scammers trapped in centers across Southeast Asia have been defrauding victims of their savings for billions of dollars. In 2024, the United States alone reported losses amounting to USD 10 billion to scam operations based in the region. The victims that scammers target are all over the world and, in many cases, highly educated: the Sawyers both have master’s degrees and are experienced stock market investors.
Partnerships against organised fraud
Though scams are becoming increasingly global, the response to these crimes is also becoming transnational. This week, UNODC and INTERPOL convened the Global Fraud Summit in Vienna, Austria, bringing together governments, law enforcement, private companies and civil society with a mandate to turn commitments into operational results: shared intelligence, joint investigations and streamlined prosecutions across borders.
Additionally, last December in Bangkok, Thailand, representatives from nearly 60 countries gathered alongside tech giants Meta and TikTok to launch the Global Partnership Against Online Scams.
The Bangkok conference, hosted by the Government of Thailand and UNODC, followed by this week’s Global Fraud Summit, mark a diplomatic inflection point for international cooperation against scam centres.
But the driver behind the fraud – the criminal infrastructure – remains entrenched across Southeast Asia and maintains a global reach.
Not just cyberfraud, but an entire criminal ecosystem at work
These operations across the region go beyond just fraud. These networks facilitate money laundering, develop and deploy malware, weaponise artificial intelligence for deepfakes and voice cloning and sell cybercrime capabilities as services.
Recent raids in the Philippines and Cambodia tell the same story: one scam centre is in fact just a small slice of a connected crime infrastructure generating billions in illicit financial flows.
It is organised crime at scale, where fraud operations are merely the surface layer of a deeper ecosystem involving corruption, human trafficking and transnational money laundering.
“We need to be looking into prosecuting high-level criminals, following the money through financial investigations and identifying the giant networks that operate behind these operations,” said Delphine Schantz, UNODC’s Regional Representative for Southeast Asia and the Pacific. “The complexity of these crimes requires an equally complex, whole-of-government approach and enhanced coordination among governments, financial intelligence units and digital banks.”
On-the-ground responses in the Philippines and Cambodia
On a recent visit to a former scam center in Manila, the Philippines, UNODC officials and investigators walked through rooms were crime bosses once orchestrated fraud operations just hundreds of metres from government offices and foreign embassies.
In the compound, now converted into offices for the Philippines’ Presidential Anti-Organised Crime Commission (PAOCC), certain rooms have been left in their original state: places where bosses would enjoy entertainment, like a karaoke room and a gaming hall, alongside a torture chamber used to punish trafficked workers who did not meet their quotas.
A logbook from the entertainment area listed politicians, municipal officials and police officers entertained as guests – evidence of the corruption that allowed these operations to flourish.
“How do you prove a cybercrime in 36 hours? It is not possible,” said PAOCC’s Operations Director, recalling the scramble when police first raided the site. They had just over a day to file charges before legal deadlines expired.
UNODC is helping countries in the region to address these gaps, targeting capacities to gather, analyse, and share electronic evidence; reducing space for organised criminal groups to move and invest resources via underground banking systems and the region’s casino industry; and improving cooperation to stop the flow of people trafficked into scam centres in the region.
In the Philippines, UNODC is assisting PAOCC, and other relevant agencies involved in fighting scam operations to develop standard operating procedures for victim-centered responses: identifying and repatriating victims, collecting evidence and taking alleged perpetrators into custody. UNODC is also working with authorities in their initiative to draft a national strategy against transnational organised crime.
Meanwhile, in Cambodia, a delegation of prosecutors, investigators and central authorities from various countries visited a raided scam centre in Phnom Penh last December, together with UNODC officials. Participants discussed mutual legal assistance, extradition, asset recovery and the proper handling of digital evidence across borders – critical aspects in addressing the scam industry. The timing was deliberate: Cambodia had recently established the Commission for Combating Online Scams (CCOS), a high-level coordinating body chaired by the Prime Minister with representatives from 25 ministries and the authority to work with armed forces and law enforcement across the country.
Towards implementing a global response to fraud
Despite increased attention and local law enforcement efforts, scam centers continue to operate, often simply relocating when one compound is raided. While governments race to chase the crime, victims continue to lose billions. This week’s Global Fraud Summit convened by UNODC and INTERPOL focused on exactly that challenge: translating political will into concrete, long-term impact.
Global leaders discussed priorities, aligned responses and advanced solutions, but officials stress the next phase requires operational follow-through: joint cross-border operations, coordinated prosecutions and real-time intelligence sharing.
Sawyer said that his wife and him, along with hundreds of victims, feel let down by the response they got from banks and governments. “The scammer works twice: they take your money, and they take your soul. They really do. They take your self-worth. And then, you feel like you’re being scammed again, by authorities’ lack of response,” he told UNODC.
He hopes that, as countries share solutions, engage in international cooperation and draw more global attention to the issue, victims like him can benefit from responses that have already worked in other countries…. PACNEWS
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Gulf Conflict Sparks Economic Risks for Fiji and the Pacific
SUVA, 19 MARCH 2026 (FNU) — The ongoing conflict in the Gulf region is creating significant global economic uncertainty, raising concerns about the potential financial and economic repercussions for Fiji and other Pacific Island nations.
This was highlighted by the Fiji National University’s (FNU) College of Business, Hospitality and Tourism Studies (CBHTS) Acting Head of Department of Economic Development and Sustainable Studies, Ashwin Deo while speaking about the ongoing conflict in the Gulf region.
He added that escalating geopolitical tensions in the Gulf could disrupt global supply chains and place pressure on food security across the Pacific.
“Although geographically distant from the Middle East, Fiji and its Pacific neighbours remain vulnerable to global disruptions due to their heavy reliance on imported fuel, food and other essential commodities. The region’s strong dependence on tourism further heightens its exposure to external economic shocks.”
Deo noted that although Pacific Island countries primarily source most of their fuel imports from suppliers in Asia, particularly Singapore, still it can have significant ripple effects. A major concern stems from potential disruptions to oil supply routes, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints for global energy transport.
“Any disruption in this region has the potential to drive global fuel prices higher, which will inevitably affect transport costs, trade, tourism and overall economic activity in Pacific Island countries,” he said.
Deo further explained that Pacific nations import substantial portions of staple foods and agricultural inputs, making them particularly susceptible to global supply chain disturbances.
“Disruptions in shipping or delays due to rising fuel prices could exacerbate vulnerabilities in local supply chains. In extreme scenarios, a total restriction of the Strait of Hormuz would not only elevate energy costs but also impede imports of fertilisers, machinery and processed foods, creating cascading risks for domestic agriculture and food availability,” he highlighted.
From an economic perspective, Deo emphasised that diversification and resilience remain key buffers against global shocks saying, “Fiji’s heavy dependence on tourism emphasises the need to expand alternative sectors such as fisheries, domestic agriculture, digital services and renewable energy.”
“In the face of potential fuel constraints, flexible work arrangements, including work-from-home options, could help reduce commuting fuel demand. At the same time, remote work and global digital connectivity offer opportunities for service-based revenue streams, reducing reliance on physical travel and external demand.”
Meanwhile, Head of School of Economic Development and Border Management, Melvin Chand, stressed the importance of strengthening domestic capacity in food and energy production to reduce external vulnerabilities.
“We need to encourage local food production, diversify our trade partners globally and maintain prudent fiscal and monetary policies. Developing diversified economic sectors and improving supply chain resilience would help reduce Fiji’s reliance on tourism-related activities while strengthening national economic stability,” Chand said.
Chand also highlighted the importance of a coordinated response from governments, policymakers, producers and consumers to manage economic shocks effectively.
“Timely and coordinated interventions can help reduce the impact of sudden price increases while protecting vulnerable populations from economic hardship. These measures will help Fiji and other Pacific Island nations enhance economic resilience, safeguard livelihoods, and maintain stability amid ongoing global geopolitical and economic uncertainties,” he said…. PACNEWS
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Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Pays Tribute to Former SG, Sir Noel Levi
SUVA, 19 MARCH 2026 (PIFS) — The Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, Baron Divavesi Waqa, has conveyed his sincere condolences on the passing of former Forum Secretary General Sir Noel Levi.
In paying tribute to his predecessor, Secretary General Waqa acknowledged Sir Noel Levi’s significant contribution to strengthening Pacific regional cooperation and advancing the economic and political interests of Forum Island Countries.
“Sir Noel Levi was a principled leader who strongly believed in the power of regional cooperation. He championed greater economic integration among Pacific Island Countries, including through initiatives such as the Pacific Island Countries Trade Agreement and PACER Plus, recognising regional trade as an important pathway toward improved livelihoods, stability, and shared prosperity for Pacific peoples,” Secretary General Waqa said.
He also noted Sir Noel’s steadfast commitment to Pacific regionalism and his advocacy for Forum members to speak with a unified voice on matters of regional and international importance.
During his tenure from 1998 to 2004, Sir Noel Levi played a key role in shaping regional responses to emerging political and security challenges. Secretary General Waqa highlighted his instrumental contribution in mobilising Forum support for the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands in 2003, a landmark Pacific-led initiative that supported the restoration of peace, stability, and governance in the Solomon Islands.
“Sir Noel Levi’s leadership reflected a deep commitment to the collective interests of the Pacific and to the enduring values of cooperation that underpin our Forum family,” Secretary General Waqa said.
“The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat extends its deepest sympathies to the family, Government, and people of Papua New Guinea. We join them in honouring the life and service of a respected regional leader whose legacy will continue to inspire the work of Pacific regionalism. May his soul rest in peace.”
Sir Noel Levi passed away last Wednesday in his home province of New Ireland, Papua New Guinea. He served as Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum from February 1998 to May 2004…. PACNEWS
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Measuring impact of sustainable Ocean governance for Kiribati through Climate and Biodiversity-Smart Marine Spatial planning indicators
TARAWA, 19 MARCH 2026 (SPREP) — Measuring the effectiveness of the marine spatial planning (MSP) process in Kiribati was the focus of a three-day national workshop held recently in Tarawa.
The gathering was to consult with and actively engage key stakeholders in the co-development of a set of climate and biodiversity-aligned marine spatial planning indicators for monitoring and assessing their national-level MSP process, through a structured and inclusive approach, tailored to the country context.
The workshop was co-organised by Kiribati Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources (MFOR), the Ministry of Environment, Lands and Agricultural Development (MELAD) under the umbrella of the Kiribati National Marine Spatial Planning Coordinating Committee (KMSPCC), and the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), and is a key output of the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade -funded Climate and Biodiversity-Smart Marine Spatial Planning (CaB-Smart MSP) Programme, implemented by SPREP.
“Marine spatial planning aims to find a balance across human activities in the ocean space, therefore, the fact that people are at the core of the MSP process cannot be overstated,” said Kaiea Awira, national CaB-Smart MSP Coordinator, Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources.
“For Kiribati, MSP should deliver a healthy, resilient, and thriving ocean by balancing sustainable use with the conservation of our natural, historical, and cultural heritage, for the benefit of I-Kiribati now and in the future.”
Over the three-day period, participants actively engaged in articulating and confirming national marine spatial planning priorities, ensuring that the co-developed indicators are directly linked to priority national policy outcomes, such as climate resilience, biodiversity health, sustainable fisheries, cultural integrity, and socio-economic wellbeing.
Furthermore, a shared understanding was created amongst participants of what MSP indicators are meant to achieve, focusing on their role in tracking progress, improving governance, supporting transparency, and enabling evidence-based decision-making.
A key part of the workshop was the open sharing of perspectives, interactive discussions and practical group work, where participants utilised a set of prioritisation criteria to evaluate potential indicators according to aspects such as relevance, feasibility, data availability, data collection and monitoring capacity, and cultural significance.
Added Awira: “I am happy to have contributed to the good discussions and practical activities during the workshop, particularly around co-developing relevant and realistic indicators for measuring how well our MSP process is meeting its objectives, through effective cross-sectoral coordination, ensuring the good health of our marine resources and long-term prosperity of our communities.”
The workshop engaged a total of 36 participants from across key national agencies and NGOs represented on the KMSPCC, including the Ministry of Environment (MELAD), Ministry of Fisheries (MFOR), Ministry of Information, Communication and Transport (MICT), Ministry of Culture and Internal Affairs (MCIA), Tourism Authority Kiribati (TAK), Ministry of Infrastructure and Sustainable Energy (MISE), Ministry of Women and Youth (MWYSSA), Kiribati National Shipping Line Ltd (KNSL), Central Pacific Producers Ltd, Kiribati Deaf Association (KDA), Live and Learn Environmental Education, Kiribati.
“The workshop followed a user-friendly format and a provided an enabling space for Kiribati MSP stakeholders to discuss, debate, and reach consensus on a preliminary set of indicators and I am pleased to note that this has fostered active participation in and ownership of the indicator co-development process over the last 3 days,” said Vainuupo Jungblut, the Environmental Monitoring and Reporting Adviser, SPREP.
The co-developed indicators will align closely with Kiribati’s marine spatial planning objectives and policy frameworks, specifically the Kiribati National Ocean Policy, the Kiribati Integrated Environment Policy and will contribute to broader national priorities around marine conservation and ocean governance…. PACNEWS
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Cook Islands joins Pacific partners to advance climate and ocean priorities at GEF workshop
RAROTONGA, 19 MARCH 2026 (COOK ISLANDS GOVT) — The Cook Islands delegation participated in the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Pacific Expanded Constituency Workshop, held in Nadi, Fiji from 24 to 27 February 2026.
The workshop brought together Operational and Political Focal Points from 15 Pacific countries, alongside multilateral partners, convention focal points, regional organisations, and philanthropic actors. Discussions focused on sharing experiences, strengthening collaboration, and identifying strategic priorities for the upcoming GEF-9 programming cycle.
Key areas of focus included integrated environmental management, marine spatial planning, sustainable financing, strengthened regional coordination, and the preparation of national portfolios for future GEF support.
Updates were also provided on the Unlocking Blue Pacific Prosperity (UBPP) initiative, including progress under the Bezos Earth Fund Pacific Pledge. This work supports expanded marine protection, sustainable financing mechanisms, and improved ocean governance across the region. Presentations highlighted the importance of multi-partner approaches to accelerate implementation of the 30×30 global ocean protection goal, in line with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
The Cook Islands delegation was led by the National Environment Service (NES), the country’s Operational Focal Point for the GEF, with representation from relevant government agencies, including Peka Fisher, Foreign Service Officer from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration (MFAI). MFAI acts as the Political Focal Point for the GEF and works closely with NES. Its participation also supported broader government engagement with regional partners and reinforced the Cook Islands’ role in Pacific environmental initiatives.
Participation in the workshop provided opportunities to exchange technical knowledge, strengthen bilateral and regional networks, and deepen understanding of emerging GEF priorities ahead of the GEF 8th Assembly, scheduled for 30 May to 6 June 2026 in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
The workshop reaffirmed the Cook Islands’ commitment to working collaboratively with Pacific partners and international agencies to promote sustainable development, conserve biodiversity, and build climate resilience across the region…. PACNEWS