In this bulletin:
1. B/VILLE — Bougainville VP slams PNG Parliament debate as ‘premature’ Independence push
2. UN — El Niño confirmed, set to fuel more extreme weather, says WMO
3. PACIFIC — NBC Managing Director opens 16th Pacific Media Conference
4. AUST — PM Wale meets Solomon Islands community in Canberra, urges them to be proud ambassadors
5. FIJI — Israel plans MASHAV presence in Fiji
6. PNG — Former PNG PM O’Neill doubts polls, Preparations intensifying for GE27
7. PACIFIC — Solomon Islands reaffirms full support for Weather Ready Pacific as Honiara hosts regional meeting
8. PNG — Australian is East New Britian’s new top cop
9. PACNEWS BIZ — New Caledonia hotels Join FESTPAC 2028 preparations
10. PACNEWS BIZ — Homeless PALM worker case prompts warning against leaving approved jobs
11. PACNEWS BIZ — Fiji, Australia pioneer national standardisation strategy
12. PACNEWS IN FOCUS — How we tracked China’s deep-sea mining fleet
13. PACNEWS DIGEST — Survey finds Samoa youth feel shut out of political processes
14. PACNEWS DIGEST — UN General Assembly elects Bangladesh’s Rahman as next president
B/VILLE – INDEPENDENCE STRUGGLE: PACNEWS PACNEWS 2: Wed 03 Jun 2026
Bougainville VP slams PNG Parliament debate as ‘premature’ Independence push
BUKA, 03 JUNE 2026 (PACNEWS)—Bougainville Vice President and Minister responsible for the Bougainville Independence Mission, Ezekiel Masatt, has accused Papua New Guinea parliamentarians of debating Bougainville’s ratification process without understanding key negotiations still underway between the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) and the National Government.
In a strongly worded statement, Masatt questioned whether the National Government was attempting to shift discussions on the Bipartisan Committee Report into a ratification debate before critical consultation processes had been completed.
“I hope it wasn’t a National Government strategy to turn the Bipartisan Committee Report session into a Ratification session like what happened in Parliament Tuesday.
“It was foolish and premature,” he said.
Masatt argued that the ratification issue cannot yet be brought before Parliament because several agreed processes remain incomplete.
He said the Ratification matter can only be brought to Parliament:
1. By the Minister for Bougainville Affairs and nobody else.
2. After the Melanesian Agreement has concluded.
3. The Melanesian Agreement is part of the Post Referendum Consultations Report.
4. And the Technical Teams must finish crafting the Post Referendum Consultations Report.”
Masatt said neither the Melanesian Agreement nor the Post Referendum Consultations Report had been finalised.
“The Melanesian Agreement has not been concluded and the Post Referendum Consultations Report hasn’t been finalised.”
Masatt claimed members of Parliament who contributed to the debate did so without access to the details of ongoing negotiations.
“Every member who spoke Tuesday spoke with ignorance, because they are not privy to the Agreed Outcomes of the Melanesian Agreement.”
He said both the ABG and the National Government were aware of discussions taking place but no agreement had yet been reached on key areas of difference.
“ABG and the National Government are aware of what is discussed at the table but as far as I know, whilst the Melanesian Agreement talks are going well there hasn’t been any agreements reached on the differing positions,” he said.
Masatt questioned what signal the parliamentary debate was intended to send.
“What is the message the National Government wish to portray? That there is no need to conclude the Melanesian Agreement talks and the Post Referendum Consultations Report?”
He warned that Bougainville could reconsider its participation in the current process if the National Government no longer supported it.
“The ABG stands ready to abandon the Melanesian Agreement if the National Government so wishes and look at other available options,” he emphasised.
Masatt also responded to criticism directed at Bougainville President Ishmael Toroama and himself by PNG Tourism Minister Belden Nama.
“Two things about Minister Belden Nama’s below-the-belt name calling of the President and myself:
“The President and myself are not members of the National Parliament. If we were we would have given it back to him,” he stressed.
He also challenged Nama’s claims regarding his role during the Bougainville conflict.
“He repeatedly calls himself a hero because of the Sandline affair and having saved 300,000 Bougainville lives. He is not.
He was not sent to Bougainville as a soldier, on a Peace Mission. He was sent to kill, amongst other things. He can disclose how many lives he took on Bougainville,” said Masatt.
Masatt praised President Toroama’s role in Bougainville’s history.
“President Ishmael Toroama is the true hero.”
“Record shows Nama was convicted for mutiny of all things,” he further noted.
Masatt urged national leaders to fully understand the issues before any future vote on Bougainville’s political future.
“When the Melanesian Agreement is concluded and the Post Referendum Consultations Report is done up, I hope National members read up and understand the issues and options then they can vote,” he said.
Chairman of the Bipartisan Parliamentary Committee on Bougainville Affairs, Dr Allan Marat, presented the Report on the nationwide public consultation regarding the Bougainville Referendum in PNG Parliament Tuesday.
This report is a significant step in fulfilling Parliament’s ongoing responsibilities under the Bougainville Peace Agreement and the Constitution of Papua New Guinea.
The nationwide consultations were designed to gather a comprehensive understanding of the perspectives and sentiments of the Bougainvillean people concerning their future governance and potential independence…. PACNEWS
UN – WEATHER WATCH: UN NEWS CENTRE PACNEWS 2: Wed 03 Jun 2026
El Niño confirmed, set to fuel more extreme weather, says WMO
GENEVA, 03 JUNE 2026 (UN NEWS CENTRE)—The UN urged all countries on Tuesday to bolster early warning systems after confirming the onset of El Niño, warning that the Pacific Ocean-warming phenomenon will bring above-average temperatures “nearly everywhere” and fuel more extreme weather.
According to the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), there is an 80 percent chance that El Niño conditions will emerge between June and August and a 90 percent probability of this happening thereafter.
“This update matters because El Niño is a major driver of global weather and climate patterns,” said WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo.
“The footprint of an El Niño travels far beyond its origins in the Pacific Ocean, impacting agriculture, energy supplies, trade, water resources, supply chains, and livelihoods across entire regions.”
At 6°C above average, tropical Pacific Ocean temperature readings are fuelling concerns that this El Niño could feed on this extra heat and devastate vulnerable and unprepared communities worldwide.
“The world must treat it as the urgent climate warning it is,” stressed UN chief Antonio Guterres, reacting to the WMO alert.
The last El Niño in 2023-24 was one of the five strongest on record and it played a role in record global temperatures registered in 2024, noted Saulo.
There is “no evidence that climate change increases the frequency or intensity of El Niño events”, according to WMO, but it can amplify associated impacts because a warmer ocean and atmosphere provide more energy and moisture for extreme weather events such as heatwaves and heavy rainfall.
“We understand El Niño; we can prepare much better for El Niño thanks to science and to the investment of many countries to be well prepared,” the WMO chief told journalists in Geneva.
“But on top of El Niño, you have extreme events and those extreme events are requiring more and more [investment].”
Together with weather agencies worldwide, the WMO’s role in the coming months involves monitoring conditions to inform decision-making by governments, humanitarian agencies and other climate-sensitive sectors.
“Advance seasonal forecasts and early warnings are vital to save lives and cushion the impact on our economies and our communities,” Saulo insisted.
Both El Niño and La Niña are opposite phases of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO), one of the most powerful naturally occurring climate patterns on Earth.
El Niño is characterized by a warming of ocean surface temperatures in the central and eastern Equatorial Pacific. It typically occurs every two to seven years and lasts around nine to 12 months.
It generally begins developing between March and June and reaches its peak intensity between November and February, with impacts on global temperatures typically being most pronounced in the second year after development.
ENSO events fall into four categories: weak, moderate, strong or very strong. “Even a moderate El Niño makes some weather and climate extremes more likely,” said WMO…..PACNEWS
PACIFIC – ABU MEET: NBC PNG NEWS PACNEWS 2: Wed 03 Jun 2026
NBC Managing Director opens 16th Pacific Media Conference
PORT MORESBY, 03 JUNE 2026 (NBC PNG NEWS) —Papua New Guinea’s National Broadcaster Managing Director Kora Nou has officially opened the 16th Pacific Media Partnership Conference in Port Moresby.
The conference brings together media leaders, journalists, broadcasters and development partners from across the Pacific to discuss the future of regional media.
Welcoming delegates, Nou said the conference provides an important opportunity to strengthen networks, build partnerships and find new ways to tell Pacific stories to the world.
He encouraged participants to actively engage in discussions, workshops, masterclasses and networking sessions over the next two days.
“Let us share ideas openly, learn from one another’s experiences, explore new partnerships and identify practical solutions that will strengthen the sustainability and impact of Pacific media,” Nou said.
He also urged international partners to continue supporting media development through capacity building, technology transfer, content exchange and collaborative storytelling initiatives.
Nou said this year’s theme, “Resilient Voices: Empowering Blue Pacific Media,” reflects the challenges facing media organisations across the region, including rapid technological change, shifting audience expectations, economic pressures, climate-related challenges and the growing influence of artificial intelligence and digital platforms.
Despite these challenges, he said Pacific media remains resilient because it is grounded in communities, cultures and a commitment to truth and public service.
“As broadcasters and media practitioners, we play a critical role in informing our citizens, preserving cultural identities, promoting democratic values and amplifying Pacific perspectives on issues that matter most to our people,” he said.
“Our voices help shape public discourse, strengthen social cohesion and ensure Pacific stories are told by Pacific people for Pacific audiences and the world.”
Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union(ABU) Secretary-General Ahmed Nadeem also addressed delegates, highlighting the need to build resilient and sustainable media organisations in an increasingly digital environment.
The conference covers key topics including the state of Pacific media in 2026, reporting on sensitive issues, media innovation, climate journalism, misinformation, strategic partnerships and business sustainability.
Practical workshops on radio scheduling, low-cost content production and content distribution will also help broadcasters improve efficiency and expand audience reach.
The conference will conclude with the signing of a communiqué outlining key priorities and future areas of cooperation among Pacific media organisations….PACNEWS
AUST – DIPLOMACY: SOL GOVT PACNEWS 2: Wed 03 Jun 2026
PM Wale meets Solomon Islands community in Canberra, urges them to be proud ambassadors
CANBERRA, 03 JUNE 2026 (SOL GOVT)—Prime Minister Mathew Wale has met with members of the Solomon Islands community in Canberra, encouraging them to continue serving as proud ambassadors for their country.
The gathering drew a strong turnout, with Solomon Islanders travelling from as far as Sydney to meet the Prime Minister and his delegation.
Solomon Islands High Commissioner to Australia Robert Sisilo said the event recorded one of the largest turnouts for any visiting Prime Minister in Canberra.
He said this highlights the strong connection between the Government and its people overseas.
In his remarks, Prime Minister Wale acknowledged the important role Solomon Islanders abroad play in representing the nation’s values, culture and identity.
“Wherever you are, you carry our nation with you. Be proud ambassadors of Solomon Islands and continue to uphold the values that define us as a people,” he said.
Members of the Solomon Islands community expressed appreciation for the Prime Minister’s humility and approachability, noting his willingness to engage openly, share stories and even joke with them during the visit.
Wale and his delegation were formally welcomed to Australia’s capital Monday through a traditional Welcome to Country ceremony, marking a respectful and culturally significant start to his official visit.
The ceremony was conducted by Ngunnawal Elder Aunty Serena Williams, a Traditional Custodian of the Canberra region. Aunty Serena welcomed the Prime Minister and his delegation and explained the meaning of the Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony.
Prime Minister Wale acknowledged the deep spiritual connection between Traditional Custodians and the land on which Australia’s capital stands.
He expressed appreciation for the honour bestowed on him and his delegation.
“This ceremony is a powerful reminder of the enduring traditions and values of Indigenous peoples. We are deeply honoured to be welcomed onto this land by its Traditional Custodians. This reflects the strength of culture, identity and respect that continues to guide communities across the Pacific and Australia,” the Prime Minister said.
The Welcome to Country included cultural expressions and, where customary, a smoking ceremony symbolising cleansing and safe passage for visitors.
The ceremony sets a respectful tone for high-level engagements in Canberra this week, where Prime Minister Wale and his delegation will meet with Australian leaders to advance bilateral cooperation and deepen longstanding ties….PACNEWS
FIJI – DIPLOMACY: FBC NEWS PACNEWS 2: Wed 03 Jun 2026
Israel plans MASHAV presence in Fiji
SUVA, 03 JUNE 2026 (FBC NEWS)—Fiji could soon benefit from expanded training, technical expertise and development assistance through Israel’s international development agency, MASHAV.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar confirmed plans to establish a MASHAV presence in the country as part of efforts to strengthen cooperation between Fiji and Israel.
Sa’ar said the initiative will help deliver practical support in areas critical to Fiji’s development, including agriculture, water security, energy, technology and innovation.
The announcement is among the first major development initiatives to emerge from the strengthening relationship between Fiji and Israel, following the opening of Israel’s embassy in Suva Tuesday.
Known formally as MASHAV, the agency was established in 1958 under Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
It serves as Israel’s international development arm, working with countries around the world through training programmes, scholarships, technical assistance and capacity-building projects.
MASHAV is internationally recognised for sharing Israeli expertise in agriculture, irrigation, water management, climate resilience, public health, education and community development.
For Fiji, the agency could provide opportunities for farmers, government officials, entrepreneurs and professionals to access specialised training and knowledge in sectors where Israel is considered a global leader.
Israel is particularly known for its advances in drip irrigation, water conservation, desalination technology and climate-smart agriculture—areas that align closely with Fiji’s efforts to strengthen food security and build resilience against climate change.
Sa’ar said Israel wants to share its innovation and experience with Fiji and other Pacific nations, describing the region…PACNEWS
PNG – ELECTION/POLITICS: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS 2: Wed 03 Jun 2026
Former PNG PM O’Neill doubts polls, Preparations intensifying for GE27
PORT MORESBY, 03 JUNE 2026 (THE NATIONAL) —Calls are intensifying for the delivery of safe, free and fair elections next year, with Papua New Guinea voters again encouraged about carefully selecting leaders.
Ialibu-Pangia MP and former prime minister Peter O’Neill last week cast doubt on whether Papua New Guinea was capable of delivering free and fair elections, given past experiences.
O’Neill called for PNG to call in outside assistance, if required, to help run elections.
On the other hand, a founding father, Dr John Momis, urged voters to elect leaders who would bring about the changes which the country needed.
He urged people to vote with discernment and to choose leaders who had the experience, qualifications, and drive to take the country forward.
Momis, who spoke at the fundraising dinner for the People’s Reform Party in Port Moresby on Saturday, said: “Good leadership through politics is needed to bring about the change that is needed for the country.
“Because it is through politics that man can do the most good, and it is also through the abuse of politics that the worst can be done.
“We have seen many leaders come and go over the years, and they all had their way of doing things.
“The leaders of today are not the same as before, as we have seen some are not caring for the very people who elected them.
“A good leader must put the interest of the people above their own.”
Momis, who was the deputy chairman of the Constitution Planning Committee, said the five National Goals and Directive Principles in the Constitution laid out the foundation for the key pillars of development that elected leaders needed to follow.
They are:
*Integral human development;
*Equality and participation;
*National sovereignty and self-reliance;
*Natural resources and environment; and,
*Papua New Guinean ways.
“Our Constitution is one of the most unique in the world because it has the five National Goals and Directive Principles,” Momis said.
“These were all developed by Papua New Guineans for Papua New Guineans.
“The leaders of today must understand what it means and use it for the good of the people.”
In Parliament last week, O’Neill made reference to Enga Governor Sir Peter Ipatas’ call over many years for international police support, and prior to police commissioner David Manning appointing Commonwealth police officer and Chief Superintendent Steve Harris in 2024.
Sir Peter advocated for international assistance to help curb tribal violence, maintain peace, and combat corruption.
Harris was introduced in Wabag, alongside Internal Security Minister Sir John Pundari, who is tasked with restoring order after recent localised unrest.
O’Neill said: “I am happy with the Enga governor’s (Sir Ipatas) speech, saying he has an Australian provincial police commander (PPC) and he is starting to make a difference.”
He said using that example, the Government must look into how they allow outsiders to come and help the country to run General Election 2027 properly.
Since 1975, the country has conducted 11 general elections.
The inaugural post-independence election was held in 1977, and polls are scheduled every five years.
O’Neill highlighted the main failure of past elections as missing electoral rolls, changes in election officials, and missing names on the common roll…..PACNEWS
PAC – WEATHER READY MEET: SOL GOVT PACNEWS 2: Wed 03 Jun 2026
Solomon Islands reaffirms full support for Weather Ready Pacific as Honiara hosts regional meeting
HONIARA, 03 JUNE 2026 (SOL GOVT) — The Solomon Islands Minister for Environment, Climate Change, Disaster and Meteorology, Wayne Osopo Ghemu, has reaffirmed that Solomon Islands will continue to fully support the Weather Ready Pacific programme, because it is already delivering real benefits for communities across the country.
Speaking at the third Weather Ready Pacific Steering Committee Meeting opened in Honiara Tuesday, Minister Ghemu said Solomon Islands has backed the programme since Pacific Leaders endorsed it in 2021.
“This is not just another overseas project. This is a Pacific plan, made by Pacific people, to protect Pacific lives,” Minister Ghemu said.
“If Weather Ready Pacific can serve our people in the villages and islands, then it will always have a home here in Honiara. It will always have the full support of the Solomon Islands Government.”
The Minister highlighted three practical examples of Weather Ready Pacific moving from vision to action in Solomon Islands, referring to the new weather radar currently under construction near the Honiara International Airport to improve monitoring of severe weather and provide faster, more accurate warnings.
Solomon Islands also benefited from professional training, which is underway for the Solomon Islands Meteorological Service officers to build forecasting skills and public service. In addition, the country also benefited from Starlink kits, which were deployed to remote areas to improve internet connectivity for early warning and disaster response under the programme.
“In our island country, where the ocean and distance make communication hard, a good connection saves lives during cyclones, floods and disasters,” he said.
Minister Ghemu stressed that equipment alone is not enough. He called on the Steering Committee to focus on building systems that last, with national ownership, maintenance plans, and strong regional coordination.
“But equipment alone is not enough. Training alone is not enough. What we need are systems that our Solomon Islands Meteorological Service can own and maintain. Systems that reach the last mile — to the mother in Western Province, the fisherman in Isabel, the farmer in Malaita, the child in Choiseul, and families in Guadalcanal,” he said.
“Weather Ready Pacific must not be a programme people only hear about in Honiara meeting rooms. It must be felt in our villages, schools, churches, markets, harbors and homes.”
The Minister thanked SPREP, WMO, development partners and technical agencies for their support, and acknowledged the work of the Solomon Islands Meteorological Service and National Disaster Management Office.
He urged delegates to use the meeting to strengthen governance, set clear priorities, avoid duplication, and keep communities at the centre of all decisions.
“Let us keep working as one Pacific family. Because the success of this programme will be measured by one thing: whether our people are safer because of the decisions we make,” Minister Ghemu said. …PACNEWS
PNG – POLICE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS 2: Wed 03 Jun 2026
Australian is East New Britian’s new top cop
PORT MORESBY, 03 JUNE 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—Former Australian Federal Police (AFP) officer Chief Superintendent Amanda Kates, is the new police commander for East New Britain.
She was sworn in at the police headquarters by police commissioner David Manning, who described her appointment as “a strategic investment in capability, leadership depth, and the future of policing in Papua New Guinea”.
Manning said Kates’ appointment reflected both her extensive policing experience and her demonstrated performance during her previous service in Papua New Guinea under the PNG-Australia Policing Partnership.
“Kates proved her capability when she served here as an AFP officer.
“She understands our policing environment, our communities, and the operational realities of PNG,” Manning said.
“I have no doubt she will perform to expectation as a member of the Royal PNG Constabulary.”
He emphasised that the appointment strengthens — not replaces — the leadership pipeline of national officers.
“This is about strengthening the leadership and mentoring of tomorrow’s police leaders. Kate’s experience allows our national officers in East New Britain to focus on frontline policing, investigations, and community safety, while she provides the strategic leadership required at the provincial level,” he said.
Chief Supt Kates brings more than 32 years of service with the AFP, including senior command roles across Australia and the Pacific.
“We are building a Constabulary where women can lead at every level. Kates joins a growing group of women who have stepped into major command roles, and there will be more,” Manning said.
Kates’ appointment is expected to bring renewed focus to community policing, discipline, and operational coordination in East New Britain.
Manning said the province would benefit from a leader who combine international experience with a deep understanding of PNG’s policing challenges.
“East New Britain deserves strong, stable, and experienced leadership. Kates brings that, and she will work diligently to strengthen policing outcomes for the people of ENB,” he said….PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
PAC – FESTPAC: PACNEWS PACNEWS BIZ: Wed 03 Jun 2026
New Caledonia hotels Join FESTPAC 2028 preparations
NOUMEA, 03 JUNE 2026 (PACNEWS)—New Caledonia’s hotel industry has formally joined preparations for the 14th Pacific Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTPAC) 2028, signing an agreement with the government aimed at boosting accommodation capacity, promoting Pacific culture and supporting the territory’s tourism recovery.
The statement of intent was signed on 21 May by Mickaël Forrest, the Government of New Caledonia member responsible for culture, and Philippe Etwiller, President of the Union of Hotels of New Caledonia.
The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation as New Caledonia prepares to host thousands of artists, performers, officials and visitors from across the Pacific for the region’s largest cultural gathering in 2028.
Under the partnership, both parties have committed to working together to:
* Strengthen the territory’s accommodation capacity;
* Promote Oceanian culture within tourist establishments;
* Expand communication and promotion of FESTPAC 2028;
* Improve the experience of visiting delegations and tourists; and
* Support the economic recovery of the hotel sector.
The government said FESTPAC presents a major opportunity to showcase New Caledonia’s culture and tourism potential to the Pacific region and the wider international community.
Officials described the Union of Hotels of New Caledonia as a key strategic partner in strengthening the festival’s profile, supporting regional and international cooperation, and ensuring long-term economic benefits for the territory.
The partnership is expected to lead to a number of initiatives, including the promotion of hotels and accommodation venues as cultural experience centres during the festival.
Plans also include the development of special accommodation packages for FESTPAC visitors, the creation of a “FESTPAC 14 Partner Hotel” label with pricing incentives, and efforts to align hotel operations with the festival’s focus on sustainability and local identity.
FESTPAC is the Pacific’s premier cultural event, bringing together artists, performers and cultural practitioners from across Oceania to celebrate and preserve Pacific heritage, traditions and contemporary arts.
New Caledonia will host the 14th edition of the festival in 2028, marking the first time the territory has staged the event since it was awarded hosting rights by Pacific cultural leaders….PACNEWS
FIJI – PALM WORKERS: FIJI SUN PACNEWS BIZ: Wed 03 Jun 2026
Homeless PALM worker case prompts warning against leaving approved jobs
SUVA, 03 JUNE 2026 (FIJI SUN) —Disengaging from approved employment arrangements is not the answer to challenges faced by Fijian workers overseas, the Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations says, as it works to assist a PALM worker reportedly living homeless in Australia.
The Ministry’s response follows viral social media posts and media reports concerning a Fijian national living in vulnerable circumstances in Sydney after leaving his approved employment under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme.
The Ministry confirmed the worker was mobilised to Australia in 2023 for employment in the meat processing sector in Tamworth, New South Wales, before disengaging from his approved employment arrangement in 2024.
Country Liaison Officers in Australia are now attempting to establish contact with the worker and assess what assistance may be available.
Permanent Secretary for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations Jone Maritino Nemani said the situation highlighted the importance of workers remaining connected to the support systems available under the PALM Scheme.
“Participation in the PALM Scheme is both an opportunity and a responsibility. Workers are selected through a competitive process and are expected to maintain satisfactory work performance, comply with workplace requirements, and uphold the values and reputation of Fiji while employed overseas,” Nemani said.
He said workers may face personal, family, financial or social challenges while abroad, but leaving approved employment arrangements should not be viewed as a solution.
“We recognise that challenges can arise while workers are overseas. However, disengagement from employment is not the answer. The ministry has established clear avenues of support, including country liaison officers, employer welfare representatives, counselling services and direct engagement with ministry officials. Workers experiencing difficulties should seek assistance early and utilise these support mechanisms.”
Nemani said significant safeguards had been established by both the Fijian and Australian governments to assist workers facing difficulties overseas.
“There are mechanisms available to support workers when issues arise, including welfare interventions, counselling support and, where appropriate, redeployment opportunities to alternative approved employers. Workers are strongly encouraged to engage with these processes rather than disengage from the programme.”
The Ministry provides PALM workers with pre-departure training, ongoing welfare support and access to dedicated Country Liaison Officers. It also works closely with Australian authorities, approved employers and community partners, including Empower Pacific and faith-based organisations.
Nemani said Ministry officials conduct welfare visits to PALM and Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) workers in Australia and New Zealand twice each year.
“The Ministry undertakes welfare visits to PALM and RSE workers in Australia and New Zealand twice each year. These visits allow us to engage directly with workers, hear their concerns, assess their wellbeing and ensure they remain aware of the support available to them. This reflects our commitment to looking after our citizens wherever they may be working.”
He said opportunities for intervention became limited when workers disconnected from authorities and support networks.
“When workers disengage from their employment, cease communication with authorities or fail to seek assistance, opportunities for intervention and support become significantly limited. Staying connected is critical to ensuring workers receive the help they need.”
Nemani acknowledged that the overwhelming majority of Fijian workers in the PALM Scheme continued to perform well and represent Fiji positively overseas.
“Thousands of Fijian workers are successfully supporting their families, contributing to their communities and serving as positive ambassadors for Fiji abroad. Their success reflects the values of hard work, responsibility and accountability that underpin the PALM Scheme.”
The Ministry is urging members of the public and Fijian communities abroad to report concerns involving vulnerable workers so timely assistance can be provided…..PACNEWS
FIJI – TRADE INFRASTRUCTURE: FBC NEWS PACNEWS BIZ: Wed 03 Jun 2026
Fiji, Australia pioneer national standardisation strategy
SUVA, 03 JUNE 2026 (FBC NEWS)—Fiji’s Ministry of Commerce and Development in partnership with Standards Australia has started works to advance Fiji’s trade infrastructure and national development goals.
The meeting is an extension of a current memorandum of understanding designed to boost regional technical collaboration, knowledge exchange, and sustainable economic growth.
This initiative stands as a milestone for the country, establishing a national framework to guide standards development, implementation, and stakeholder engagement across priority sectors of the economy.
Permanent Secretary Dr Radika Kumar emphasised the structural role of quality controls in securing Fiji’s socioeconomic future.
“Standards, metrology and conformity assessment have become the backbone of the national quality infrastructure system ensuring trust, safety and competitiveness across all sectors, and compliance with standards is critical for market access and economic growth of Fiji.”
Kumar said that standards will encourage economic and sustainable development for the country.
“For small island developing states such as Fiji, standards are not only technical tools, but strategic enablers of economic resilience, climate adaptation, innovation and sustainable development.”
The meeting defined practical action areas to secure consumer safety and help local businesses align with international trading standards…PACNEWS
PACNEWS In Focus
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
How we tracked China’s deep-sea mining fleet
By Elizabeth Claire Alberts, Kara Fox
CALIFORNIA, 03 JUNE 2026 (MONGABAY)—We didn’t set out to investigate China’s deep-sea mining fleet, but as our research into the burgeoning industry developed over our yearlong partnership, it became clear that an investigation into the fleet’s alleged military dual use was emerging as an important, untold story.
Shortly after we embarked on our joint project, geopolitics around the deep-sea mining landscape began to shift dramatically. In February 2025, China signed an agreement with the Cook Islands government to collaborate on deep-sea mining research and exploration. At the same time, it was pursuing a similar deal with the archipelago nation of Kiribati, marking a notable expansion of Chinese influence in the Pacific.
China holds the largest number of exploration contracts issued by the International Seabed Authority (ISA), the UN-affiliated deep-sea mining regulator, and is also its biggest financial contributor. It also operates the world’s largest oceanographic research fleet. Against this backdrop, we kept returning to a central question: was China’s pursuit of deep-sea mining driven solely for accessing mineral resources, or was it also shaped by broader geopolitical strategy? Through extensive reporting, we learned that China’s interest in seabed mining was motivated by both of these things, and that some of its vessels were engaged in both deep-sea mining work and militarily strategic surveillance.
Meanwhile, deep-sea mining efforts have been gathering pace in the United States. In March 2025, The Metals Company, a Canadian company, announced its intention to file a mining application in the U.S, despite already holding an exploration license with the ISA. Critics argue that such a move would violate international law and constitute a breach of obligations to the ISA. A month later, the Trump administration issued an executive order calling for the U.S to unilaterally accelerate its deep-sea mining plans in both national and international waters, citing as one of its main reasons the need to “counter China’s growing influence over seabed mineral resources.”
Navigating the data
Working as a collaborative team, we merged our distinct expertise to uncover this complex maritime story.
Together, we analyzed five years of MarineTraffic shipping data, submitted public records and freedom of information requests, and established relationships with experts who provided crucial feedback. Backed by data editors from our news organisations and the invaluable help of the research and data team at the Pulitzer Centre, we transformed raw data and expert reviews into a comprehensive, verified investigation.
We started with what was already in the public domain, engaging with experts who had written about the alleged dual nature of China’s oceanographic fleet. This included Darshana Baruah of Indo-Pacific Defence and Strategy at IISS–Asia in Singapore; Liselotte Odgaard of the Washington, D.C.-based Hudson Institute; and Pooja Bhatt of the Jindal School of International Affairs in India. We also engaged with researchers from the Washington-based Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), whose foundational work on the military dual use of China’s oceanographic fleet in the Indian Ocean in 2024 provided valuable insights. Their expertise also helped us hone our approach for this investigation.
Next, we needed to identify China’s vessels involved in deep-sea mining research. We did this by looking at ownership information from Chinese deep-sea mining companies, state media and Chinese news sources, and a recent publication by Ryan D. Martinson of the U.S. Naval War College’s China Maritime Studies Institute. There are more than 40 ships in China’s deep-sea mining research fleet. Through our reporting, we landed on a list of eight vessels, based on data showing they had spent time in ISA exploration sites contracted to Chinese companies (and one reserve area designated by a Chinese company to the ISA) over the past five years.
We analysed five years of vessel-tracking data from MarineTraffic, a global maritime intelligence platform, to identify these vessels’ voyaging patterns and any activity that suggested unusual activity to further investigate.
We focused on the following criteria for our analysis:
* Visits to known Chinese military ports;
*Voyages and loitering in other countries’ exclusive economic zones (EEZs);
*Periods when vessels turned off automatic identification system (AIS) tracking, a radio signal with identification and location data that larger vessels are supposed to broadcast when at sea.
We used QGIS, a geographical data visualization and analysis tool, to map out our initial data points, and also accessed vessel tracking data on the newly launched Deep Sea Mining Watch platform, which provided a user-friendly interface to support our own work.
This vessel tracking data revealed several notable insights.
Over the past five years, these eight vessels spent a combined 814 days operating in or near areas licensed or reserved for exploration by the ISA, underscoring China’s strong interest in deep-sea mining. At the same time, the data led to a key finding in our investigation: only about 6.4 percent of the vessels’ total operating time was spent within ISA-designated exploration zones. The vast majority of their activity occurred outside these areas.
But what were these ships doing in other parts of the ocean?
We identified activity that appeared to be worth investigating, such as a vessel lingering in another country’s EEZ or appearing to disable its AIS, the mandatory, automated maritime transponder tracking system. These are referred to as AIS-off events. We cross-referenced those timings with any news or developments that might already be in the public domain, looking for information in local media or from reputable local analysts to gain more clues.
We also took a selection of routes, movements and AIS-off events to more than a dozen naval, civil and academic analysts, showing them the maps, including some in real time, so they could verify what we had identified and provide additional context and insight into the routes’ significance.
For data on the AIS-off events and movement near undersea cables, we obtained additional data support from Starboard Maritime Intelligence, a platform used by government agencies, defence forces and critical infrastructure operators.
At the same time, maintaining a strong focus on the environmental implications of the deep-sea mining industry was essential to our story, particularly for the readers at Mongabay. We drew on existing scientific research and interviews with environmental experts, who outlined potential impacts on both the seabed and the wider marine environment, some of which could be long-lasting or irreversible. This included sonar that affects whales, and risks to little-known species deep in the ocean.
Lessons from the voyage
Ultimately, distinguishing whether Chinese vessels are conducting scientific research or gathering military intelligence relies on expert interpretation of the data. To back up our findings, we took our reporting to our various experts, sometimes many times, to check and recheck. We were sure to seek any insights that might challenge our thesis.
One of the most important parts of our work was taking preliminary findings to multiple subject-matter experts to fact-check data and uncover new leads.
At times, our experts offered conflicting interpretations of the data, so we would return to the drawing board to reevaluate, remembering that it is far better to have a finding challenged — or even dropped — at the prepublication stage than to face a correction later.
We found that if a lead was shrouded in conflicting opinions, we should walk away from it altogether.
We also engaged experts during the hypothesis stage to build rapport and set the tone for our investigation. By the time we had specific data points to highlight, our sources were already invested in the project, with many proving incredibly helpful in providing deep-dive feedback.
We sought a global and multidisciplinary panel, consulting more than a dozen experts across several continents, balancing naval intelligence with academic rigor to ensure a 360-degree view. But one limitation was that we couldn’t include everyone in the final copy. We struggled with this, as all of our experts had such rich and important perspectives to bring, but we were ultimately bound by the limitations of space.
We also acknowledged that we didn’t need to be data scientists to produce data-driven journalism; the collaboration on this story was key. We partnered with colleagues in both of our newsrooms who were able to support our technical needs and who helped with mentoring on some steps throughout the process.
While we used QGIS after training with the Pulitzer Centre’s data team, tools like the Deep Sea Mining Watch platform, as well as Kpler’s MarineTraffic and Google Earth also offered powerful, accessible alternatives.
Working as a collaborative team
We were introduced through one of Elizabeth’s colleagues, Erik Hoffner, Mongabay’s impact editor, who had met Kara at a Society of Environmental Journalists (SEJ) conference in Philadelphia in 2024, during her Ted Scripps Fellowship in Environmental Journalism. After an initial call, we quickly decided that we wanted to work together, driven by a shared interest in telling stories about deep-sea mining. At the same time, we recognised that CNN and Mongabay are very different platforms, and that a single, identical story may not necessarily work for both.
While our published pieces ended up being similar, we worked toward what was most appropriate for our respective platforms and audiences. The CNN story took a deeper dive into the geopolitics, particularly surrounding China’s vessel movements in the South China Sea. Mongabay devoted more attention to China’s overall role in deep-sea mining, analyzing vessel activity in mining zones, highlighting the extent of Chinese exploration areas, and expanding on the environmental stakes.
Our two stories also presented this work differently, with CNN’s production a visually rich, highly interactive feature, and Mongabay’s incorporating beautifully designed static graphics throughout, with some interactivity focused on one of the vessels.
Working collaboratively came with its challenges, especially when balancing the demands of our respective newsrooms, but what carried the project through was clear and consistent communication, mutual respect for each other’s work, and a shared determination to see the project to completion. It also helped that we genuinely enjoyed working together….PACNEWS
Elizabeth Claire Alberts is a senior staff writer for Mongabay and was a 2024-2025 fellow with the Pulitzer Centre’s Ocean Reporting Network. Find her on Bluesky and LinkedIn.
Kara Fox is a senior reporter at CNN International and a guest contributor to the Pulitzer Centre.
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Survey finds Samoa youth feel shut out of political processes
By Mark Sheehy
APIA, 03 JUNE 2026 (ISLANDS BUSINESS)—A recent governance survey has laid bare a disconnect between Samoa’s political leadership and its people.
The majority of respondents believe leaders only look after the wealthy, that development benefits are unfairly distributed, and that only a select few – chiefs, business owners, and government officials – truly have a say in how the country is run.
The questionnaire, gathered responses from Samoans, mostly aged 18–35. The respondents were sent a link through which to participate in the online survey. While the findings show a population that understands democracy and values human rights, they also reveal deep frustration with government inefficiency, cultural barriers to rights, and a judiciary and media perceived as neither fully independent nor free from political pressure.
‘Culture and Tradition’ – A Double-Edged Sword
When asked about the biggest challenge to human rights in Samoa, the most common answer was not lack of laws, but “B. Culture and tradition.”
Several respondents noted that while human rights are understood as “rights and protections for all human beings,” traditional power structures – particularly matai (chiefs) – often override individual freedoms.
“Human rights is not active in Samoa; usually elder or matai take advantage of their titles to silence the rights of youths,” one respondent wrote.
Another added: “We need to integrate culture and human rights without clashing beliefs.”
Less than half of respondents believe human rights are adequately protected, and ratings for the government’s responsiveness to women’s and girls’ participation in political affairs ranged from neutral to dissatisfied.
Political leadership: ‘All Talk, No Work’
Ratings for the current Prime Minister (in contrast to former leaders) were strikingly polarized – ranging from “Very Good” to “Very Bad,” with a heavy cluster of negative comments.
“He’s (not truthful) and been in court for bad cases,” one respondent said.
“He is a hypocrite who talks about the law but in reality, is the law breaker. Uses his power to dictate and control.”
“All talk, no work lol,” another wrote.
Others acknowledged positive steps, such as a one-time $150(US$55) per person distribution, but the overwhelming sentiment was worry about the future. When asked how political leadership makes them feel, the most common answers were: “Leaders are only looking after the rich” and “Worried about the future of my country.”
Only a few have a say
A recurring theme across both Samoan and regional responses was the belief that political participation is not genuinely open to everyone.
“Only the ones who have money and power,” one respondent explained.
“Matai (chiefly title holders) and the wealthy,” another said.
“Members of parliament, high-ranking chiefs, and church leaders.”
Many answered that while voting happens, real decision-making remains concentrated among elites.
Development benefits uneven, public funds mismanaged
More than half of Samoan respondents disagreed or strongly disagreed that development benefits have been fairly distributed across the country. Comments pointed to urban-centred projects, political instability, and a minimum wage that remains very low.
On public funds, most were either neutral or dissatisfied with management, and few believed funds were used efficiently. Top priorities for increased spending: education, healthcare, infrastructure, and job creation. Top areas to cut: government travel, overseas trips for ministers, and “themselves.”
Democracy supported, but a fair few may not vote
While most respondents said they plan to vote in the next election – citing civic duty and the right to choose leaders – a significant minority said they would not, due to bribery, lack of trust, or living abroad.
“Some of the candidates bribed people to vote for them,” one said.
“Nope. Some of the candidates bribed people to vote for them.”
Suggested improvements to democracy included: fairer and more transparent elections, more women and youth in parliament, civic education, and reducing the influence of money in politics.
Judiciary and media: lack of confidence
Most respondents rated the judicial system as “moderate/neutral,” but many believed political influence affects judicial decisions. Confidence in the judiciary’s ability to act independently was low, with answers ranging from “neutral” to “very unconfident.”
The media was widely rated as “neutral” or “not independent,” with corruption, lack of resources, and political interference cited as the biggest external challenges.
What Samoans want: transparency, fairness, and action
Across all sections, a consistent message was there: Samoans, especially young people, want leaders who are transparent, accountable, and fair. They want development that reaches rural and outer islands, not just urban centres. They want human rights that respect culture but do not allow tradition to justify abuse. And they want a democracy where every vote truly matters – not just those backed by wealth or chiefly titles.
“Start from the Prime Minister and the government,” one respondent urged. “Lead by example and set safe spaces where everyone can freely express themselves.”…PACNEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
UN General Assembly elects Bangladesh’s Rahman as next president
NEW YORK, 03 JUNE 2026 (UN NEWS CENTRE) –Bangladeshi Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman was elected President of the UN General Assembly’s 81st session on Tuesday after defeating Andreas Kakouris of Cyprus in a closely contested vote, positioning himself to steer the world body through a pivotal year marked by intensifying global crises, UN reform efforts and major leadership transitions.
In a secret-ballot election, Rahman secured 99 votes to Kakouris’s 91. A total of 190 ballots were cast, with no invalid votes or abstentions.
The presidency rotates among the UN’s five regional groups, and the 81st session falls to the Asia-Pacific group.Rahman will serve a one-year term starting on 8 September.
His presidency will coincide with one of the most consequential processes on the UN calendar: the selection of Secretary-General António Guterres’s successor, whose term ends on 31 December 2026.
Rahman brings more than four decades of diplomatic and multilateral experience to the role. Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister since February, he previously served as National Security Adviser and High Representative on the Rohingya Issue.
A career diplomat, he joined Bangladesh’s foreign service in 1979. He also held senior UN positions in New York and Geneva.
‘With humility and respect’
Accepting the position, Rahman said he was taking on the role “with humility and respect” at a moment when confidence in the international system was under strain.
“The UN will commence its ninth decade at a time when trust in our organisation is being tested on multiple fronts,” he told Member States.
“Taken together, these challenges tend to undermine the public trust and confidence in the ability of our organisation to deliver its promises.”
A world under pressure
The election comes amid what the current General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock described as an exceptionally difficult period for multilateral diplomacy.
Addressing Member States after the vote, Baerbock said the UN was facing “not only headwinds, but immense pressure,” with consensus increasingly difficult to achieve and defence of the UN Charter becoming “a daily necessity.”
“The role of the president of the General Assembly is no longer simply procedural,” she said.
Challenges ahead
She warned that the international environment was unlikely to become easier during the coming year, as the Assembly continues work on implementing the Pact for the Future, advancing reform efforts through the UN80 initiative and navigating broader geopolitical divisions.
Secretary-General António Guterres echoed those concerns, describing a world confronting “conflicts, divisions, rising inequality and climate chaos.”
He also pointed to slowing progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), declining funding for humanitarian action and development, and international institutions that remain “stuck in the world as it was in 1945, not the world of today.”
Six priorities for the 81st session
Rahman said his presidency would focus on six broad priorities: peace and security; accelerating progress on the SDGs; climate action and environmental protection; human rights; governance of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, and UN reform.
Drawing on Bangladesh’s experience in peacekeeping, he pledged to support preventive diplomacy, peacebuilding and civilian protection.
He also highlighted the need to address development financing gaps, advance implementation of the Global Digital Compact and strengthen the UN’s effectiveness at a time of growing pressure on multilateral institutions.
‘Restoring trust’
Rahman’s overarching theme for the session is “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations that Delivers for All.”
Secretary-General Guterres described the theme as “an inspiring call to action for the multilateral system” and said it reflected a commitment to strengthening global cooperation.
The President-elect said he intends to act as a bridge-builder, promising to engage all Member States and seek common ground despite growing divisions.
“As your president, I will dedicate myself to rebuilding trust, nurturing consensus, and opening space for good faith negotiations that will lead to outcomes for all that are owned by all,” he said.
He also pledged to uphold the UN Charter, maintain geographical and gender balance within his office and support the needs of smaller delegations.
The world parliament
The General Assembly is the UN’s most representative body, bringing together all 193 Member States, each with one vote.
While its resolutions are generally not legally binding, the Assembly serves as the principal forum for international deliberation on peace and security, development, human rights and international law.
The 81st session will open on 8 September, with world leaders gathering two weeks later for the annual high-level debate at UN Headquarters, in New York…PACNEWS
