In this bulletin:
1. PACIFIC — Dr Aqorau questions Pacific regionalism’s impact, calls for focus on results
2. PACIFIC — Pacific leaders call for stronger regional cooperation at Pacific peace and security dialogue
3. TUVALU — Tuvalu marks 80 years since Kioa purchase, PM Teo honours Vaitupu vision
4. PACIFIC — Pacific leaders urged to protect oceans amid climate and biodiversity crises
5. SOL — PM Wale pushes for stronger Anti-Corruption body, demands action on SIICAC leadership
6. PNG/SOL — Licence for Solomon Airlines service to Port Moresby granted
7. SOL — UNDP deepens engagement with new Solomon Islands government, prioritises electoral readiness ahead of 2028 polls
8. PACIFIC — Cook Islander makes history as New Zealand’s first Pacific female Orthopaedic surgeon
9. PNG — Deployment to PNG brings soldier full circle
10. PACNEWS BIZ — Bougainville Minister warns of IUU fishing threat, credits Patrols for stopping drone activity
11. PACNEWS BIZ — American Samoan congresswoman backs Trump’s Pacific fishing executive order
12. PACNEWS BIZ — UNDP backs Solomon Islands’ return to extractive transparency initiative
13. PACNEWS BIZ — PNG firms, agencies warned against sharing ‘sensitive’ information
14. PACNEWS BIZ — American Samoa’s governor tears US$50 bill
15. PACNEWS DIGEST — Advancing Regional Action on Invasive Species: 12th PRISMSS Meeting Commences, Focusing on Collaboration, Coordination and Future Planning
16. PACNEWS DIGEST — Strengthening World Heritage Management and Climate Resilience in Pacific SIDS
17. PACNEWS DIGEST — Fiji advances integrated geophysical hazard preparedness through first national SOP workshop
PAC – DIPLOMACY: PACNEWS PACNEWS 3: Tue 16 Jun 2026
Dr Aqorau questions Pacific regionalism’s impact, calls for focus on results
SUVA, 16 JUNE 2026 (PACNEWS)—Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Vice Chancellor Dr Transform Aqorau has challenged Pacific leaders and regional institutions to assess whether decades of regional declarations and strategies are delivering real benefits to Pacific people, warning that regionalism risks losing relevance if it fails to produce measurable outcomes.
In a statement titled If We Declare but Do Not Deliver: Reflections on Pacific Regionalism and the Search for a More Effective Regional Architecture“, Dr Aqorau said the Pacific has produced numerous declarations and frameworks on major regional issues but must now confront a critical question.
“The Pacific is not short of declarations.
“Over the decades, our leaders have adopted visionary communiqués, regional frameworks, strategies, and declarations that have articulated a compelling vision for our Blue Pacific Continent. We have spoken powerfully on climate change, ocean governance, sustainable development, regional solidarity, decolonisation, and nuclear justice.
But an uncomfortable question remains: what happens if we declare, but do not deliver?” he said.
Dr Aqorau said the question was particularly relevant when evaluating whether the region’s institutions and regional architecture were genuinely improving people’s lives.
He highlighted fisheries as one of the strongest examples of successful Pacific regional cooperation.
“Through the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA), Pacific Island countries built one of the world’s most successful examples of collective resource governance. By working together, sharing information, coordinating surveillance, and negotiating as a bloc, Pacific states transformed their bargaining power in the world’s largest tuna fishery,” he said
He said the development of the Parties to the Nauru Agreement (PNA) and the Vessel Day Scheme (VDS) strengthened that success.
“The emergence of the Parties to the Nauru Agreement (PNA) and the Vessel Day Scheme (VDS) further strengthened this success. Rather than competing against one another, countries collectively managed fishing effort and created scarcity in access rights. The result was a dramatic increase in fisheries revenues, greater national ownership of resources, and enhanced negotiating leverage with distant water fishing nations,” said Dr Aqorau.
Aqorau also cited the Pacific’s united stand against nuclear testing as another example of regionalism producing tangible results.
“For decades, Pacific leaders stood united against nuclear testing and its devastating impacts. Through regional diplomacy, moral leadership, and persistence, Pacific countries elevated the issue onto the global stage and helped shape international norms around nuclear justice and disarmament.
While the legacy of testing remains unresolved in many communities, the Pacific’s collective voice demonstrated the power of regional solidarity,” he said.
Dr Aqorau said these examples showed that regional cooperation worked when countries shared common interests, demonstrated strong political commitment and established institutions capable of delivering practical benefits.
“These examples show that regionalism can work when there is a clear common interest, strong political commitment, effective institutions, and mechanisms that generate tangible benefits for member countries.”
However, Dr Aqorau said progress had been less impressive in other areas, particularly trade integration.
“Trade integration has progressed slowly.
Despite decades of discussion, intra-Pacific trade remains limited. Transportation costs are high, markets are fragmented, regulatory systems differ, and production capacities vary considerably across countries. Regional trade agreements have often struggled to generate the transformative economic integration that many had hoped for.”
He noted that labour mobility programmes in Australia and New Zealand had generated positive outcomes, but said they remained driven largely by external demand rather than a coordinated Pacific strategy.
“Labour mobility has been more successful in recent years, particularly through schemes in Australia and New Zealand, but these initiatives remain largely driven by external demand rather than a coherent regional labour market strategy. While remittances have become increasingly important for many Pacific economies, labour mobility remains uneven, fragmented, and often disconnected from broader regional development objectives.”
Dr Aqorau said the mixed record raised important questions about why some regional initiatives succeed while others struggle.
“One lesson from the fisheries sector is that successful regionalism is often built around practical incentives rather than aspirational declarations.
The PNA and VDS worked because they aligned national interests with regional interests. Countries could see direct economic returns from cooperation. Compliance generated benefits. Institutions were designed around delivery rather than dialogue.”
He suggested that future regional architecture should focus more on implementation and outcomes.
“Perhaps this is where future regional architecture should focus its attention.”
Dr Aqorau also highlighted other regional organisations as examples of approaches that could offer useful lessons.
“ASEAN, despite its imperfections, has steadily advanced economic integration through trade facilitation, investment frameworks, connectivity initiatives, and practical cooperation mechanisms. CARICOM in the Caribbean has pursued deeper regional integration through common institutions, coordinated policies, and efforts to create a single market and economy.”
While acknowledging the Pacific’s unique circumstances, he questioned whether the region should pursue deeper forms of economic integration.
“However, the underlying question remains relevant: should the Pacific pursue deeper forms of economic integration that move beyond cooperation towards genuine regional economic space?
“Could there be greater harmonisation of regulations, qualifications, labour mobility arrangements, digital systems, transportation networks, and investment frameworks?
“Could regional institutions focus more deliberately on delivery and implementation rather than consultation and coordination?
“Most importantly, what model would best improve the everyday lives of Pacific people?” he asked.
Dr Aqorau said ordinary Pacific citizens would judge regionalism not by the number of meetings held or declarations issued but by whether it improved their daily lives.
“For many citizens, the measure of regionalism is not the number of declarations adopted or meetings convened. It is whether regional cooperation improves access to healthcare, creates jobs, strengthens livelihoods, lowers the cost of living, enhances food security, builds resilience to climate change, and expands opportunities for future generations.”
He said growing regional challenges, particularly climate change, may require deeper cooperation than ever before.
“The impacts of climate change alone may require a much deeper form of regional cooperation than anything we have attempted previously. Issues such as climate finance, renewable energy, disaster response, migration, health security, food systems, and digital connectivity increasingly transcend national boundaries.”
Dr Aqorau said the next stage of Pacific regionalism should be judged on outcomes rather than rhetoric.
“Perhaps the next phase of Pacific regionalism must be judged less by what we declare and more by what we deliver.
The Blue Pacific narrative has provided a powerful vision. The challenge now is to build institutions, incentives, and mechanisms capable of turning that vision into measurable outcomes.”
He said that the future credibility of regionalism would depend on whether it produced tangible benefits for Pacific people.
“Because ultimately, regionalism is not an end in itself.
Its legitimacy rests on a simple question:
“Are the people of the Pacific better off because of it?
“If the answer is yes, then regionalism remains one of our most powerful tools for collective advancement.
“If the answer is uncertain, then perhaps it is time to rethink not our aspirations, but the architecture through which we seek to achieve them,” he said……PACNEWS
PAC – SECURITY: FIJI GOVT PACNEWS 2: Tue 16 June 2026
Pacific leaders call for stronger regional cooperation at Pacific Peace and Security dialogue
SUVA, 16 JUNE 2026 (FIJI GOVT) — -Pacific leaders and regional stakeholders have emphasised the importance of collective action, cooperation, and Pacific-led solutions in addressing the growing security challenges facing the Blue Pacific region.
This message was highlighted during the opening of the 2026 Pacific Peace and Security Dialogue, held in Suva, bringing together representatives from governments, regional organisations, security agencies, academia, civil society, and youth networks.
Delivering a keynote address, Simon Kofe, Minister for Transport, Energy, Communication and Innovation of Tuvalu, reflected on the need for Pacific countries to approach regional security challenges through shared values, cooperation, and collective responsibility.
Minister Kofe acknowledged the significance of the dialogue, noting that the discussions come at a time when Pacific communities are facing increasingly complex challenges, including climate change, transnational organised crime, technological disruption, and geopolitical pressures.
He said the region’s response must be guided by the values and principles that have shaped Pacific societies for generations.
“Our values are more than aspirations. They are the compass that guides our decisions and informs the systems that we build together,” Minister Kofe said.
Minister Kofe highlighted that the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent provides an important foundation for strengthening regional cooperation, placing people, culture, identity, and collective responsibility at the centre of development and security discussions.
He said security should not only be viewed through traditional approaches, but must also consider environmental protection, community wellbeing, governance, and the resilience of Pacific societies.
“Security is not an end in itself. It is part of the future we are deliberately shaping together, one grounded in our shared values, identity, wellbeing, and responsibility to future generations,” he said.
Minister Kofe also highlighted the success of regional cooperation through the Parties to the Nauru Agreement (PNA), noting that collective approaches can strengthen Pacific nations’ ability to protect shared resources and interests.
He said the lessons from regional cooperation in areas such as fisheries, maritime management, climate action, and security demonstrate that working together strengthens, rather than diminishes, national interests.
“Regionalism is not simply a political arrangement; it is the application of our values at a larger scale,” Minister Kofe said.
Also addressing participants, Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Baron Waqa said the region is navigating a period of genuine uncertainty, with global conflicts, economic pressures, transnational organised crime, climate change, and increasing strategic competition shaping the regional security environment.
Secretary General Waqa reaffirmed that Pacific countries must continue to lead discussions on peace and security through Pacific-owned frameworks and priorities.
“The political will exists. The policy frameworks are in place. What we need now is action, delivery, and implementation,” Secretary General Waqa said.
He highlighted the importance of regional frameworks, including the Boe Declaration on Regional Security, which recognises that security in the Pacific extends beyond traditional threats and includes climate, human, economic, and transnational security challenges.
Secretary General Waqa said work is progressing on the Regional Peace and Security Action Plan 2026–2030, which aims to translate regional commitments into practical and coordinated action.
The Action Plan will support stronger regional cooperation in addressing issues such as transnational organised crime, climate-related security risks, human security, and the protection of Pacific communities.
The Pacific Peace and Security Dialogue provides an important platform for strengthening partnerships, sharing knowledge, and identifying practical solutions to support a peaceful, secure, and resilient Pacific region.
Fiji’s Ministry of Policing and Communications recognises the importance of regional cooperation and dialogue in strengthening collective efforts to address emerging challenges and ensuring the safety and security of Pacific communities
TUVALU – VAITUPU VISION: PACNEWS/TUVALU GOVT PACNEWS 3: Tue 16 Jun 2026
Tuvalu marks 80 Years since Kioa purchase, PM Teo honours Vaitupu vision
VAITUPU, 16 JUNE 2026 (PACNEWS/TUVALU GOVT)— Tuvalu Prime Minister Feleti Teo has paid tribute to the foresight of Vaitupu leaders who purchased Kioa Island in Fiji 80 years ago, describing the move as a remarkable act of planning for future generations despite the challenges facing the Pacific in the aftermath of World War II.
Teo joined the people of Vaitupu on Monday as Chief Guest at celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the purchase of Kioa Island by the people of Vaitupu in June 1946.
In his address, the Prime Minister reflected on the achievements of Vaitupu’s forefathers, noting that only 59 years after the island had united to repay a major debt through copra production, its leaders had already begun securing opportunities for future generations.
He described the decision to purchase Kioa as extraordinary given the global circumstances at the time.
“They were not only solving the challenges of their time, they were planning for the future of generations yet to come.”
Throughout the celebrations, Teo stressed the enduring connection between the people of Vaitupu and Kioa, regardless of nationality or citizenship.
“The people of Kioa are the people of Vaitupu, and the people of Vaitupu are Tuvaluans. Regardless of the citizenship you may hold today, your heritage, your roots, and your DNA will always be Tuvaluan.”
The Prime Minister said that although climate change and sea-level rise were not concerns in 1946, Vaitupu’s leaders understood the importance of creating opportunities and safeguarding the future of their people.
“Whenever you look at Kioa, remember the wisdom of your forefathers, be inspired by their courage, and give thanks to God for His blessings upon the people of Vaitupu and Kioa.”
Teo also challenged the current generation to build on the legacy left by their ancestors and to consider how Kioa could continue contributing to the wellbeing of both Vaitupu and Kioa communities.
A key event during the celebrations was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Government of Tuvalu and Vaitupu.
According to the government, the MOU recognises the historic relationship between Vaitupu and Kioa and acknowledges the significance of the 1946 purchase.
The agreement does not create any legal or financial obligations for the Government of Tuvalu and does not alter the ownership arrangements of Kioa Island, which continues to be governed under the existing Trust Deed established by the Vaitupu chiefs and families who purchased the island.
The anniversary celebrations highlighted the historical significance of the purchase, which remains a defining chapter in the history of Vaitupu and Tuvalu.
Eighty years after the acquisition, Kioa continues to stand as a symbol of the foresight, resilience and unity of the people of Vaitupu and Tuvalu……PACNEWS
PAC – OCEANS PROTECTION: ISLANDS BUSINESS PACNEWS 3: Tue 16 Jun 2026
Pacific leaders urged to protect oceans amid climate and biodiversity crises
SUVA, 16 JUNE 226 (ISLANDS BUSINESS)—-Pacific governments are being urged to strengthen ocean protection and stewardship amid growing pressure from climate change, biodiversity loss, and marine pollution.
Vanuatu’s Minister for Climate Change Adaptation, Ralph Regenvanu, said oceans are increasingly central to global and regional survival, not only environmentally but also politically and economically.
He welcomed the recent entry into force of the Convention on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdictions (BBNJ), calling it a significant milestone in global ocean governance since the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) was adopted in the 1980s.
“We are seeing governments around the region and the world recognise the importance of oceans,” Regenvanu said.
He pointed to Vanuatu’s establishment of a dedicated Ministry of Oceans and the passing of its first National Oceans Act as examples of strengthened national action on marine governance.
“In fact, Tonga was first and we were second,” he noted, referring to Pacific countries setting up dedicated ocean institutions and legislation.
Regenvanu also highlighted international legal developments, including a United Nations General Assembly resolution supported by 144 countries that backs the International Court of Justice’s advisory opinion on states’ obligations to protect the right to a healthy, safe and sustainable environment.
He said this right is fundamental and places responsibility on governments to ensure environmental protection.
“This is a human right of all citizens of the world and governments have an obligation to fulfil this right,” he said.
Regenvanu stressed that in the Pacific, the ocean is deeply tied to identity, livelihoods, and wellbeing.
“The health of the oceans reflects the health of the people,” he said, adding that Pacific communities have long been guided by intergenerational stewardship of marine resources.
He warned that the region faces a “triple planetary crisis” of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, and called for stronger cooperation between governments and communities.
“It’s up to governments in the region, working with the people, to make sure we address these in a way that leaves our ocean intact for future generations,” he said…PACNEWS
SOL – ANTI CORRUPTION/ELECTION RFORMS: SOL GOVT PACNEWS 3: Tue 16 Jun 2026
PM Wale pushes for stronger Anti-Corruption body, demands action on SIICAC leadership
HONIARA, 16 JUNE 2026 (SOL GOVT)—Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale has called for urgent reforms to restore public trust in the Solomon Islands Independent Commission Against Corruption, saying, “it is time to bring back integrity and trust.”
In a meeting with SIICAC Chairman James Apaniai at the Prime Minister’s Office today, PM Wale reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to fully equip the Commission to deliver on its mandate.
“We must prove to our people that SIICAC is working,” the Prime Minister said. “Our people must see results and have confidence that corruption will be addressed.”
He acknowledged progress made but stressed more work is needed to strengthen operational capacity and public confidence. PM Wale said reforms must be accelerated so SIICAC can operate independently and effectively.
Chairman Apaniai welcomed the Prime Minister’s stance and agreed that urgent action is needed. He identified the absence of a Director General as the key factor stalling the Commission’s work.
“The lack of a Director General has significantly stalled our work. Addressing this must be a priority,” Apaniai said.
PM Wale acknowledged the concern and directed the Chairman to engage with the Attorney General to advance the appointment process, including consideration of the previously recommended candidate.
Both leaders agreed SIICAC must be urgently strengthened to improve effectiveness, independence and credibility.
The Government remains accountable for ensuring SIICAC is properly supported and functional, the Prime Minister said.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Wale has directed the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission to finalise key electoral reforms by the end of the year and to explore systems for diaspora voting, following a briefing from the Chief Electoral Officer Jasper Highwood Anisi .
Anisi paid a courtesy visit to the Prime Minister to update him on SIEC’s institutional recovery and strategic reforms.
He confirmed field operations for the country’s new voter registration system will commence in 2027, with the required biometric kits already procured and on hand.
“We are prepared, and the new kits to assist us in our work have already arrived,” Anisi said.
The briefing came amid a period of recovery for SIEC following a fire that destroyed its office and the recent passing of
Deputy CEO Christina Mitini. Despite the dual setbacks, Anisi said the Commission has shown resilience by successfully conducting three consecutive by-elections.
Prime Minister Wale extended sympathies to SIEC staff and honoured Ms Mitini’s service as one of the Commission’s most dedicated leaders.
Setting the reform agenda, PM Wale said legislative and administrative changes must be completed by December 2026 to strengthen the national electoral system.
He also tasked the CEO to assess viable technical platforms to allow Solomon Islanders living overseas to vote in future elections.
“PM Wale commended the CEO and the electoral team for rising above recent challenges to safeguard the nation’s democratic processes,” a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office said….PACNEWS
PNG/SOL – AIRLINE: SOLOMON STAR PACNEWS 3: Tue 16 Jun 2026
Licence for Solomon Airlines service to Port Moresby granted
PORT MORESBY/HONIARA, 16 JUNE 2026 (SOLOMON STAR)—The Solomon Islands High Commission in Papua New Guinea has announced that Solomon Airlines has been granted an International Airline Licence by the Papua New Guinea Department of Transport.
This authorises the airline to operate services on the Honiara–Port Moresby–Honiara route.
The licence was formally presented on 12 June 2026 by Papua New Guinea’s Secretary for Transport,Matthew Wowoni, to the Solomon Islands High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea,William Soaki who received the licence on behalf of Solomon Airlines during a brief handover ceremony in Port Moresby.
Speaking at the ceremony, High Commissioner Soaki welcomed the issuance of the licence, describing it as a significant milestone in strengthening connectivity and cooperation between Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea.
“The commercial licence comes at an important moment, as we observe a steady increase in passenger movement between our two capitals, reflecting deepening people-to-people links, growing business engagement, and expanding regional cooperation,” High Commissioner Soaki said.
He noted that the route carries considerable strategic importance for both countries.
“This route is strategically significant not only for the mobility of our citizens, but also in supporting trade, tourism and investment.
Solomon Islands hosts one of the largest concentrations of Papua New Guinea investment abroad.
“The activation of this traffic right will therefore contribute directly to strengthening economic integration and fostering closer ties between our private sectors and communities,” he said.
Secretary Wowoni also welcomed the development, stating that the granting of the licence marks an important step in strengthening aviation links between Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands.
The issuance of the licence represents another positive milestone in the longstanding relationship between the two neighbouring Melanesian countries and is expected to facilitate greater movement of people, goods and services while supporting broader economic and regional integration objectives.
Solomon Airlines is scheduled to operate its inaugural flight under the new licence to Jacksons International Airport in Port Moresby on 30 June 2026.
Meanwhile, senior officials from both countries are continuing preparations for the next round of bilateral Air Services Agreement (ASA) review meetings, tentatively scheduled for early August in Papua New Guinea…..PACNEWS
SOL – DIPLOMACY/POLITICS: ISLAND SUN PACNEWS 3: Tue 16 Jun 2026
UNDP deepens engagement with new Solomon Islands government, prioritises electoral readiness ahead of 2028 polls
HONIARA, 16 JUNE 2026 (ISLAND SUN)—The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthen partnership and development cooperation with the new Solomon Islands Government following a series of high-level meetings last week.
UNDP Pacific Office Resident Representative Munkhtuya Altangerel said her official visit to Solomon Islands involved extensive consultations with government ministers, Parliament leaders, development partners and civil society organisations.
Speaking to local media in Honiara last week, Altangerel described the engagements as “very substantive”, saying discussions covered a wide range of national development priorities.
“I had a meeting with most ministers, the new ministers in the Government of Solomon Islands, the Great Coalition,” she said.
Altangerel said her mission began with meetings with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before holding discussions with Minister of Planning and officials from the Ministry of Finance.
“We had a very substantive dialogue with the Minister of Finance,” she said.
She also held meetings with the Ministry of Mines, Ministry of Provincial Government, Ministry of Police and Ministry of Rural Development, as well as the Forum Fisheries Agency.
“So, I would say we’ve covered the entire spectrum of the civil service here in Solomon Islands,” Altangerel added.
The UNDP representative also met with the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission, Parliament representatives and several civil society organisations, including the Solomon Islands National Women’s Council, disability organisations and youth groups.
“I also had a discussion with the partners, including Australia, United Kingdom, China, Japan and also New Zealand,” she said.
According to Altangerel, governance remains a central pillar of UNDP’s support in Solomon Islands, particularly in areas relating to provincial governance, elections, transparency and community development.
“UNDP is a United Nations agency that works on governance. So, it’s a key pillar of any nation building,” she said.
She highlighted continued UNDP support for provincial governments in areas such as financial management systems, procurement capability, asset management and climate-resilient rural infrastructure.
Altangerel also stressed the importance of transparency and accountability in the extractive sector, revealing that UNDP and the United Kingdom will support Solomon Islands to rejoin the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI).
During her visit, she also met Prime Minister Matthew Wale and Speaker of Parliament Patteson Oti during celebrations marking King Charles’ birthday.
“In general, it’s been quite busy,” Altangerel said.
Meanwhile, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) says strengthening electoral readiness ahead of the 2028 national and provincial elections remains one of its key priorities in Solomon Islands.
UNDP Pacific Office Resident Representative Munkhtuya Altangerel said preparations for the next election cycle must begin early to ensure transparency, accountability and effective participation.
“2028 is just nearby, so we really need to ensure that our Solomon Islands Electoral Commission is ready to again hold the elections with accountability and transparency,” Ms. Altangerel said.
She said UNDP will continue supporting the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC), particularly in improving voter registration systems and civic participation.
Altangerel revealed that she met with SIEC Chairperson and commissioners during her official visit to Solomon Islands last week.
“I met not only with the Madam Chairlady, but also with the commissioners of the Electoral Commission,” she said.
She said discussions focused on strengthening voter and civic registration systems ahead of the next joint elections for both provincial and national governments.
“I understood that it will also be joined-up elections, both for provincial as well as national, like it was done in previous years,” she added.
“So that’s quite a big transformation.”
Altangerel said, one major area of support will involve enhancing and cleaning up voter and civic registry systems to improve the credibility and efficiency of future elections.
She also highlighted the importance of increasing youth participation in the democratic process, noting that young people make up the majority of Solomon Islands’ population.
“We also want to look at political participation of especially young people, as 75 percent of the population of Solomon Islands is under the age of 35,” she said.
Altangerel said governance remains a core pillar of UNDP’s work in Solomon Islands, alongside resilience and climate change initiatives.
During her visit, she held meetings with government ministers, Parliament representatives, development partners, civil society organisations and provincial governance stakeholders.
The UNDP representative described the week-long engagements as “very substantive”, saying the discussions covered governance, elections, provincial development and transparency issues across the country…..PACNEWS
PAC – HEALTH: PASIFIKA MEDICAL ASSOCIATION PACNEWS 3: Tue 16 Jun 2026
Cook Islander makes history as New Zealand’s first Pacific female Orthopaedic surgeon
AUCKLAND, 16 JUNE 2026 (PASIFIKA MEDICAL ASSOCIATION)—Dr Ailsa Wilson has made history as the first Pacific female orthopaedic surgeon in New Zealand, marking a significant milestone for her family, her community, and her Cook Islands heritage.
Currently working in the Orthopaedics Department at Tauranga Hospital, Dr Wilson’s achievement represents years of training, dedication, and perseverance in a highly specialised field. A former Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) Dr Joe Williams Scholarship recipient, she acknowledges the pivotal role of support, mentorship, and cultural identity throughout her journey.
Reflecting on what inspired her career path, Dr Wilson said her interest in orthopaedics began early in her medical training when a surgeon at Middlemore Hospital recognised her potential and encouraged her to consider the specialty.
“My first ever run as a junior registrar was alongside Dan Lemanu and Renus Stowers, who are now respected Pacific orthopaedic surgeons. They were two Pacific doctors with similar backgrounds and values to myself who became my friends. They inspired me and gave me confidence that this was a path I could also pursue,” she said.
Dr Wilson credits the Dr Joe Williams Scholarship, awarded in 2022 at the beginning of her orthopaedic training, as an important source of support throughout her development.
“I was incredibly fortunate to receive the Joe Williams Scholarship at the beginning of my orthopaedic training. Since then, my training has taken me across the North Island, from Wellington to Auckland. The scholarship provided invaluable support throughout that journey,” she said.
Being recognised as the first Pacific female orthopaedic surgeon in New Zealand is a deeply meaningful milestone for Dr Wilson and her family.
“I am deeply honoured to be recognised as the first Pacific female orthopaedic surgeon in New Zealand. However, what brings me even greater pride is seeing increasing numbers of Pacific women also choosing orthopaedic surgery as a career.
“This is just the beginning for us and I hope we all continue to demonstrate to others that there is a place for us in these spaces.” she said.
Dr Wilson emphasises the importance of language, culture, and identity in her professional practice, particularly when caring for Pacific and Māori patients and families.
“My language, culture, and identity are central to who I am. Growing up in Tokoroa, my culture was woven into us from a young age. Whenever I meet Pacific or Māori patients and families, I am reminded of why it is important for me to be here—being able to connect and optimise care for our patients,” she said.
Her message to the next generation is one of encouragement and representation.
“My journey has taught me that representation matters. When younger ones can see someone who looks like them and shares similar backgrounds and values, they can also believe that they belong in these spaces,” she said.
Dr Wilson’s achievement stands as an important milestone for Pacific representation in medicine in New Zealand, and an inspiration for future generations pursuing careers in specialist surgery…..PACNEWS
PNG – DEFENCE: ADF PACNEWS 3: Tue 16 Jun 2026
Deployment to PNG brings soldier full circle
PORT MORESBY, 16 JUNE 2026 (ADF)—As a child growing up in East New Britain, Papua New Guinea, Captain Jeffrey Sios spent countless afternoons exploring creek beds with his cousins, climbing through bushland and playing in waterways that cut through the province’s volcanic landscape.
He never realised unexploded bombs were scattered beneath his feet.
Earlier this year, while conducting reconnaissance for Operation Render Safe with explosive ordnance disposal [EOD] teams, Captain Sios returned to one of those same creeks for the first time in years.
“We walked along a creek bed where my cousins and I used to play as kids, and some of the EOD boys pointed out like 10 or 15 unexploded ordnances,” Captain Sios said.
“We used to walk down this exact same place, and I had no idea any of this stuff was there.
“It’s been surreal knowing places kids still go to are filled with these things.”
After moving to Australia to study and eventually joining the Australian Army, Captain Sios returned to East New Britain in uniform as the logistics officer for the multinational mission working to remove explosive remnants of war throughout the region.
Across East New Britain, remnants of World War II lie hidden beneath villages, coastlines, gardens and creeks more than 80 years after the fighting ended.
Personnel from Papua New Guinea, Australia, Canada, France, Japan, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States are disposing of unexploded ordnance identified during previous missions.
As the logistics officer, Captain Sios oversees the movement and sustainment of their equipment.
Growing up in PNG speaking Tok Pisin has allowed him to connect with local communities while helping fellow soldiers better understand the culture, traditions and customs of the country.
“Most people know the capital, or the headlines, but they don’t know the people,” he said.
“It’s close to the heart because I’m from here too, and hopefully it makes people want to come back and keep helping this area.”
For his mother, Janet, seeing her son return to serve in the province where he grew up has been special.
“When Australians come to Papua New Guinea, they need to connect with people at a personal level,” Mrs Sios said.
“You have to understand families, traditions and culture. Once you do that, you become part of the community.
“That’s something Jeffrey understands very well – he is a very good bridge between our cultures, and I know he will do the same for the other nations here too.”
Returning has brought back memories of the place that shaped Captain Sios. He remembers fishing with family, swimming in the ocean and spending hours outdoors with cousins in villages around the province.
“You grow up somewhere just seeing it as home,” he said. “Then you come back years later and realise there’s this whole history and danger still sitting there.
“I left the country to get an education and build a life for myself, and now I’m coming back and giving back to the country where I was born.
“It really feels full circle,” he said……PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
B/VILLE – ILLEGAL FISHING: PACNEWS PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 16 Jun 2026
Bougainville Minister warns of IUU fishing threat, credits Patrols for stopping drone activity
BUKA, 16 JUNE 2036 (PACNEWS)—Bougainville Fisheries Minister Amanda Masono says illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing remains a major threat to the Autonomous Region of Bougainville’s remote atolls, but patrol support from Sea Shepherd Global has helped stop suspicious offshore activities, including alleged drone operations linked to foreign fishing vessels.
Masono, the Member for the Atolls Constituency in the Autonomous Bougainville Government, said the region’s vast maritime zone and limited enforcement capacity have left island communities vulnerable to illegal fishing activities.
“I come from the remote waters of the Bougainville Atolls. While our isolation has preserved our way of life for generations, it has also left us vulnerable.
“Our waters are a prime target for illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. The vastness of our maritime zone, combined with limited patrol capacity, presents a major enforcement challenge for a small island region such as ours. When industrial vessels operate near the edges of our waters, the consequences are felt directly by our communities, whose food security and livelihoods depend on healthy marine ecosystems,” Masono said.
She said suspicious activity had been regularly observed in the area before Sea Shepherd Global began supporting Bougainville’s efforts to combat IUU fishing under the leadership of President Ishmael Toroama.
“Before Sea Shepherd Global began supporting Bougainville in combating IUU fishing in our Atolls, under the leadership of President Toroama, we frequently observed suspicious activity offshore. From Carteret (Tulun) Island to Fead Island (Nuguria), the horizon would often glow at night with the lights of foreign fishing vessels operating just beyond our communities.”
Masono recounted an incident she witnessed in March 2025 while carrying out customary obligations ahead of the Autonomous Bougainville Government General Election.
“In March 2025, while carrying out customary obligations in preparation for the Autonomous Bougainville Government General Election, I witnessed something that deeply concerned me. One evening, at approximately 6:00 pm, while swimming near Langain Island, I noticed lights moving from the ocean toward the island.
“At first, I assumed they were satellites. But as I continued watching, I realised they were moving with direction and intent. These were not objects in the sky. They were drones launched from fishing vessels offshore.”
She said a second incident occurred during the same visit when a drone flew close to a residence on the island.
“On another night during the same visit, at around midnight, a drone flew extremely close to our house. Village boys chased it when it came within a metre of our home, passing just inches from the Wi-Fi satellite dish that provides our only communication link with the outside world.”
Masono said the incidents raised concerns about both fisheries enforcement and security.
“The presence of drones over our islands was alarming. It suggested that fishing vessels were conducting reconnaissance before entering our waters. This reflects a level of coordination and technological capability that small island communities cannot afford to ignore. It raises serious concerns not only about fisheries violations, but also about maritime security and sovereignty.”
She said the situation changed after Sea Shepherd Global began conducting patrols in Bougainville waters.
“Since Sea Shepherd Global began providing patrolling support in Bougainville waters, these activities have stopped. The horizon lights we once saw regularly have disappeared. The drone incursions have ceased. Their presence has had a clear deterrent effect.”
Masono said she had observed only one suspicious light since the patrol operations began.
“Only once, during the 2025 festive season following the election, did I observe a single distant light again beyond Carteret Island. Otherwise, the change has been unmistakable.”
She said the experience highlighted the need for continued monitoring and enforcement partnerships to prevent illegal activities from returning.
“This experience demonstrates the importance of sustained monitoring and enforcement partnerships. Bougainville’s waters are vast, and our capacity remains limited. Continued cooperation is essential to ensure that illegal activities do not return once attention shifts elsewhere.”
Masono said protecting the ocean remains critical for communities across the atolls.
“For the people of the Atolls, the ocean is not an abstract issue. It is our livelihood, our identity, and our future. We must continue strengthening partnerships that protect our waters and uphold the integrity of our maritime borders,” she said….PACNEWS
A/SAMOA – FISHERIES/DIPLOMACY: RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 16 Jun 2026
American Samoan congresswoman backs Trump’s Pacific fishing executive order
PAGOPAGO, 16 JUNE 2026 (RNZ PACIFIC)—An American Samoan congresswoman says protected American Samoan waters should be off limits for fishing, but the rest of the Pacific is fair game.
The United States will open nearly half a million square miles of protected Pacific waters for commercial fishing.
An executive order signed on 11 June by President Donald Trump, titled ‘Restoring American Commercial Fishing in the Pacific’ builds on a process starting in April of last year to undo more than a decade of protections and expansions.
The order applies to the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument around Hawai’i, the Islands Unit of the Mariana Trench Marine National Monument, and the Rose Atoll Marine National Monument around American Samoa.
Republican, Uifa’atali Aumua Amata Coleman Radewagen, typically an ally of Trump, opposes the Rose Atoll part.
“With our heads we can welcome good news for our economy, while our hearts treasure Rose Atoll and stand with our people in Manu’a,” she said.
Amata said last Thursday’s proclamation by Trump “is incredible, positive news for our fishing and economy overall”.
“I want to be clear that elsewhere throughout US waters, I support the change and thank the President – but Rose Atoll has special significance.”
Fishing remains prohibited within 50 nautical miles of any land in these areas, and within 12 nautical miles of American Samoa, and catch limits also apply.
An order last year similarly opened the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument the difference being that this one holds uninhabited atolls and reefs.
A fact sheet on the White House website said that appropriately managed fishing will not put these areas at any risk, for research purposes or historic preservation.
‘Onerous restrictions unnecessarily prohibited commercial fishing within (these) areas… removing job opportunities for American workers,” it read.
“The proclamation opens economic and job opportunities for U.S fishing families, coastal communities, seafood processors, and related maritime industries, ensuring unfettered access to the coastal waters of the U.S while maintaining rigourous environmental protections”.
Trump’s previous order saw a challenge in Honolulu courts, which found it unlawful in its attempt to supersede legislation that had passed through Congress.
Earthjustice, the organisation behind it, has stated they intend to do the same with this one.
In the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), a conservation group has condemned Trump’s decision to allow commercial fishing in parts of the Mariana Trench Marine National Monument.
In a statement, the Friends of the Mariana Trench said this threatens Pacific communities, cultural heritage, and local stewardship of the ocean…PACNEWS
SOL – MINING: ISLAND SUN PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 16 Jun 2026
UNDP backs Solomon Islands’ return to extractive transparency initiative
HONIARA, 16 JUNE 2026 (ISLAND SUN)—The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) says it will support Solomon Islands to rejoin the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) as the country pushes for stronger accountability and transparency in the mining and extractive sector.
Speaking to local media in Honiara over the weekend, UNDP Pacific Office Resident Representative Munkhtuya Altangerel said transparent governance arrangements in the extractive sector are critical for the country’s long-term sustainable development.
“This whole week, there has been a lot of news on the transparency in the extractives industry,” Altangerel said.
“So together with the United Kingdom, we will be supporting the Government of Solomon Islands on rejoining the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, or EITI.”
She said accountable and transparent governance systems in the extractive industry are essential to ensure that benefits from the country’s natural resources reach communities.
“Having a good governance, and not just good governance, but also accountable and transparent governance arrangements for the extractives sector is the foundation for sustainable development of the country,” she said.
Altangerel added that transparent revenue-sharing arrangements for communities living around mining areas are equally important.
She made the remarks following a week of consultations with government ministers, state institutions, development partners and civil society organisations during her official visit to Solomon Islands.
The UNDP representative met with several government ministries, including the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Planning, Ministry of Mines, Ministry of Provincial Government and the Ministry of Rural Development.
She also held discussions with the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission, members of Parliament, development partners and civil society organisations.
Altangerel said governance remains one of UNDP’s core priorities in Solomon Islands.
“UNDP is a United Nations agency that works on governance. So, it’s a key pillar of any nation building,” she said.
She said UNDP is continuing to support provincial governments with financial management systems, procurement capacity, asset management and climate-resilient rural infrastructure development.
The renewed push for EITI engagement comes amid increasing public discussion around transparency and accountability in Solomon Islands’ extractive industries sector.
Solomon Islands was previously an EITI implementing country before withdrawing from the initiative in 2018. Recent consultations involving UNDP, the United Kingdom and stakeholders have focused on helping the country re-engage with the global transparency framework….PACNEWS
PNG – SENSITIVE INFORMATION: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 16 Jun 2026
PNG firms, agencies warned against sharing ‘sensitive’ information
PORT MORESBY, 16 JUNE 2026 (THE NATIONAL)–Businesses and government agencies are being warned against uploading sensitive information to public artificial intelligence (AI) platforms, amid concerns that confidential data could be exposed and accessed beyond their control.
Datec general manager for innovation, technology and strategy, John Pulu, issued the warning during a technology roadshow in Lae, saying organisations must better understand the cybersecurity risks associated with AI tools.
“We have to ask what our staff are putting on public AI platforms,” he said.
Pulu said many employees are now using AI applications such as ChatGPT to summarise reports, draft emails and prepare presentations, often without considering where the information is stored or how it may be used.
He warned that sensitive material such as financial records, internal documents and business data could be unknowingly uploaded to public platforms, creating serious privacy and security risks.
Pulu said AI systems may retain or learn from uploaded data, raising concerns about long-term exposure even if information was later deleted.
“In my mind, if a machine algorithm has already learned from it, I’ve already got value out of your data,” he said.
Pulu said cybersecurity firms are increasingly developing tools to monitor and restrict employee use of public AI services, reflecting growing global concern over data protection.
He added that the rapid rise of AI presents new challenges for governments and businesses trying to balance innovation with data security.
Pulu said sovereign AI infrastructure in Papua New Guinea could provide a safer alternative by keeping sensitive data within local jurisdiction and legal frameworks.
He stressed that responsible AI use and stronger data governance policies were now essential as adoption of the technology accelerates….PACNEWS
A/SAMOA – GOVERNOR: SAMOA OBSERVER PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 16 Jun 2026
American Samoa’s governor tears US$50 bill
PAGOPAGO, 16 JUNE 206 (SAMOA OBSERVER)—American Samoa Governor Pula’ali’i Nikolao Iuli Tuiteleleapaga Pula drew attention during a graduation speech at Samoana High School after he tore a US$50 bill while speaking to students about the value of education.
The governor spoke to the graduates and used a US$50 bill as part of a message comparing it to a diploma.
“Think of your diploma, a piece of paper that has value,” he told students. “If I take out a piece of paper and tear it apart, none of you would worry about it.”
He then took out a US$50 bill during the speech and tore it as he continued explaining his point about value.
He later said the dollar bill still carries value, and continued his remarks, encouraging students to recognise the importance of their qualifications.
The governor told graduates that their diplomas could lead them to university, community college, the workforce, or the armed services.
Following the incident, some members of the public have raised concerns about the demonstration, describing it as an act of disrespect towards the US currency.
U.S law generally makes it illegal to destroy currency with the intent to render it unfit for reissue.
The governor continued his speech after the demonstration….PACEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Advancing Regional Action on Invasive Species: 12th PRISMSS Meeting Commences, Focusing on Collaboration, Coordination and Future Planning
APIA, 16 JUNE 2026 (SPREP)—The 12th Pacific Regional Invasive Species Management Support Service (PRISMSS) meeting has officially commenced at the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) campus in Vailima, Apia, Samoa, bringing together key stakeholders, technical partners and the programme team to strengthen collaboration and enhance programme impact on invasive species management and regional resilience efforts.
The week-long meeting, provides an important platform for coordination, reflection and forward planning among PRISMSS partners, including representatives from SPREP, Island Conservation, BirdLife International, Earth Sciences New Zealand, Bioeconomy Science Institute and the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
SPREP Director General, Sefanaia Nawadra, while delivering the opening remarks shared that, “I was genuinely impressed by the strength of collaboration and the close relationships across partners and donors, particularly with New Zealand. That level of joint effort is a key reason PRISMSS continues to deliver meaningful results in the region.”
“It was clear from our recent trilateral discussions that our partners, especially New Zealand, remain very satisfied with the programme, with strong interest from Australia and the UK as well. That continued commitment reflects confidence in both the work and the way the partnership operates together.”
The SPREP Director General further added that the strength of PRISMSS was in its network of doers, partners working together to deliver practical, on-the-ground services that countries truly need supported by donors. That coordinated approach is what makes the programme both effective and unique.
“The challenges facing the Pacific are not diminishing if anything, they are intensifying with new pressures such as climate variability and emerging threats such as the El Nino. This underscores the continued need for strong partnerships like PRISMSS to support countries in meeting those challenges.”
“Ultimately, it is the individuals behind these partnerships, working together with shared purpose and commitment, that make this programme successful. That collective effort is what will sustain and strengthen PRISMSS into the next phase.”
The meeting opened with an introductory session setting the tone for a series of structured discussions focused on improving programme coordination and strengthening partnerships. Early sessions emphasised enhancing communication, transparency, and collaboration through better use of coordination tools such as the Navigator and Asana platforms, with participants working to identify practical improvements and agree on priority actions.
Throughout the week, participants will engage in a range of programmatic and technical sessions designed to review ongoing work and shape future initiatives. Key discussions will include project development exercises to identify potential participating countries for upcoming regional initiatives, as well as dedicated communications sessions aimed at improving storytelling, reporting, and stakeholder engagement across PRISMSS programmes. These sessions highlight the partnership’s commitment to increasing visibility and ensuring clear and consistent communication among technical partners and communities.
A strong focus is also being placed on community engagement and inclusive practices, with interactive sessions on gender, equity, diversity, social inclusion (GEDSI), and traditional knowledge. These activities are designed to strengthen how PRISMSS initiatives are implemented at the community level, ensuring that local voices and perspectives are effectively integrated into programme delivery and outcomes.
As part of the programme, participants will also take part in a field visit to the INSPIRE Malololelei site, providing an opportunity to observe practical, on-the-ground invasive species management efforts and share insights through hands-on learning. This complements a series of technical presentations and discussions where partners will present project results, outcomes, lessons learned, and challenges experienced during implementation.
Mid-week sessions will focus on the PRISMSS Restoring Island Resilience project wrap-up, including financial updates, reflections on contracting and reporting processes, and presentations of project impacts by technical leads. These discussions will support a collective review of progress made to date and help identify areas for improvement in future project phases.
SPREP Invasive Species Adviser, Mr David Moverley, commented that, “this meeting provides a space for forward-looking dialogue, with partners and donors exploring future priorities, funding opportunities and collaborative approaches to advance the objectives of PRISMSS across the region.”
“Discussions on challenges and opportunities will further strengthen partnerships and ensure alignment on shared goals moving forward.”
The final day of the meeting will centre on reviewing shared coordination systems, as well as, reflecting on key outcomes from the week and agreeing on next steps. Participants will also consolidate lessons learned and identify actions to enhance coordination and programme delivery across the partnership.
The commencement of the 12th PRISMSS meeting marks another significant milestone in strengthening regional cooperation to address invasive species challenges in the Pacific, reinforcing the partnership’s commitment to effective coordination, inclusive engagement, and impactful, sustainable outcomes for island biodiversity and communities…PACNEWS
For additional information please contact Dominic Sadler, PRISMSS Manager on dominics@sprep.org or Nitish Narayan, PRISMSS Communications & Liaison Officer on nitishn@sprep.org
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Strengthening World Heritage Management and Climate Resilience in Pacific SIDS
SUZHOU, 16 JUNE 2026 (UNNESCO)—In collaboration with ICCROM, UNESCO supported the organisation of the International Course on Managing World Heritage: People Nature Culture (PNC), held in Suzhou, China, from 26 May to 4 June 2026.
In the framework of the project Sustainable Islands: Building Heritage Disaster and Climate Resilience of Small Island Developing States in the Pacific Region, generously supported by the UNESCO/Republic of Korea Funds-in-Trust, UNESCO supported the participation of heritage professionals from six Pacific Small Island Developing States (SIDS): Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Samoa and Tonga.
The ten-day course brought together 34 participants from around the world to strengthen capacities for integrated and people-centred heritage management.
Throughout the course, participants worked with two World Heritage properties from the Pacific region as case studies: Levuka Historical Port Town in Fiji and the Kuk Early Agricultural Site in Papua New Guinea. Using the latest Managing World Heritage Resource Manual and the Enhancing Our Heritage Toolkit 2.0 (EOH 2.0), participants assessed the value and attributes, factors affecting the properties, examined management systems, and explored practical approaches to disaster risk management, climate action and community engagement.
Through lectures, expert presentations, group discussions, field exercises and peer learning activities, participants explored the heritage place approach and reflected on how integrated management can strengthen both heritage conservation and community resilience.
“The course helped me better understand place-based approaches to heritage management, focusing on the conservation and enhancement of the multiple values of heritage places within their broader social, environmental, cultural and economic contexts. The knowledge and skills gained through this training will strengthen my capacity to document, protect and manage cultural and natural heritage sites in Samoa in close collaboration with local communities,” said Forrest Time, Assistant Chief Executive Officer, Ministry of Education and Culture (Samoa).
“What I found most valuable was learning from other participants and reflecting on the importance of communities and traditional landowners. Rather than telling people what to do, we need to build trust and work together to support the protection of heritage places,” Vaciseva Kuli, Acting Executive Officer, World Heritage Unit, Department of Culture, Ministry of Itaukei Affairs (Fiji)
“These approaches will be particularly useful for the management of the Kuk Early Agricultural Site and other heritage places we are working on. They will help us better manage community expectations, and I intend to use the tools introduced during the course as a practical checklist to strengthen our management planning,” Jim Onga, Manager of World Heritage Programmes, Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (Papua New Guinea)
The course established a strong foundation for the next phase of the implementation of the project supported by the Korea Heritage Service via the UNESCO/Republic of Korea Funds-in-Trust. The knowledge, tools and professional networks developed through the training will support participating countries in strengthening disaster preparedness, climate adaptation and the sustainable management of heritage places across the Pacific region.
UNESCO thanks the Republic of Korea for its support in strengthening the protection of World Heritage sites in the Pacific SIDS….PACNEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Fiji advances integrated geophysical hazard preparedness through first national SOP workshop
SUVA, 16 JUNE 2026 (UNESCO)—Fiji has taken an important step towards strengthening its national geophysical hazard early warning and response systems through the First National Integrated Geophysical Hazard Standard Operating Procedures Workshop, convened in Suva.
Held over two days, the workshop brought together representatives from national technical agencies, disaster risk management authorities, emergency services, community stakeholders, development partners and regional organisations to review Fiji’s existing arrangements for earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic hazards, volcano-generated tsunamis and landslides.
The workshop was led in collaboration with the Mineral Resources Department, the National Disaster Risk Management Office, the Fiji Meteorological Service and UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission. It supported ongoing national efforts to strengthen end-to-end, people-centred and multi-hazard early warning systems aligned with the United Nations Secretary-General’s Early Warnings for All initiative.
Participants examined the full warning chain, from hazard detection and monitoring to technical assessment, warning dissemination, community preparedness and response. Discussions focused on clarifying institutional roles, strengthening coordination mechanisms, improving communication pathways and identifying operational gaps that need to be addressed through harmonized Standard Operating Procedures.
For Fiji, where communities, infrastructure and livelihoods are exposed to multiple geophysical hazards, integrated SOPs are essential to ensure that warnings are timely, accessible, clearly understood and linked to coordinated action. The workshop also emphasised the importance of inclusive approaches that consider the needs of vulnerable groups and support effective communication to the last mile.
Saula Mule, Head of the Fiji National Tsunami Warning Centre, highlighted the importance of strengthening coordination, communication and preparedness across the full warning chain.
“Today’s workshop represents an important milestone in Fiji’s journey toward a more comprehensive and people-centred multi-hazard early warning system”
Jiuta Korovulavula. of UNESCO-IOC encouraged participants to engage openly and contribute actively to the development of nationally owned SOPs.
“Together, we can build a stronger, more coordinated and more inclusive early warning and response system for Fiji,” said Jiuta Korovulavula.
The workshop concluded with agreement on priority SOP components, an initial drafting roadmap and next steps for validation, testing and continued collaboration across Fiji’s disaster risk management and technical agencies.
UNESCO-IOC, with the support of the Government of Japan and in partnership with national and regional stakeholders, continues to support Pacific Island countries in strengthening geophysical hazard resilience, tsunami preparedness and multi-hazard early warning systems. The Fiji workshop contributes to broader regional efforts to ensure that early warnings lead to early action and that communities are better prepared before, during and after hazardous events….PACNEWS
For more information, please contact Jiuta Korovulavula, National Professional Officer for Tsunami Warning and Disaster Risk Reduction, j.korovulavula@unesco.org
