In this bulletin:
1. FIJI — Fiji constitution review report tabled, major reforms proposed
2. FIJI — Commission says 2013 Fiji Constitution should not be completely discarded
3. PACIFIC — UNODC Adviser calls for more support for Pacific Journalists covering Crime and Corruption
4. PACIFIC — ‘Truth should be protected by the truth’ — PINA President on risks facing journalists
5. FIJI — Fiji calls for climate promises to become projects at COP31 agenda launch
6. SOL — Solomon Islands, Australia advance treaty talks
7. AUST — Why Solomon Islands PM had to apologise to Albanese
8. FIJI — Proposed Fiji election fines ‘draconian’: FNU academic
9. AUST — Australia urges slowdown of AI race in global statement
10. PACNEWS BIZ — Media jobs at risk over AI expansion
11. PACNEWS BIZ — New deal to keep airspace safe
12. PACNEWS BIZ — Nine suspects in Panguna mine fire attack in custody
13. PACNEWS DIGEST — Pacific Ocean Initiative launched to strengthen resilience of Pacific marine ecosystems and coastal communities
14. PACNEWS DIGEST — Russia’s War on Ukrainian Trade Is a War on Global Food Security
FIJI – CONSTITUTIONAL REFORM: PACNEWS/FIJI TIMES PACNEWS 3: Tue 22 Sep 2026
Fiji constitution review report tabled, major reforms proposed
SUVA, 22 SEPTEMBER 2026 (PACNEWS/FIJI TIMES)— Fiji’s Constitution Review Commission Report has been tabled in Parliament Tuesday, opening the next stage of consideration of sweeping proposed changes to the country’s political, electoral and governance systems.
The report, tabled during a special sitting of Parliament, contains recommendations developed from consultations across Fiji and submissions from individuals, faith-based organisations, civil society, Government ministries and other stakeholders.
Speaker of Parliament Filimone Jitoko said the report would now be made available to the public.
“Pursuant to Standing Order 38(3), the report must now be made available to the public,” Jitoko told Parliament.
He said he had instructed the Secretary-General to upload the report and its annexures to the parliamentary website.
MPs will also receive complete copies of the report and annexures, with USB copies to be distributed following the adjournment because of the size of the documents.
The report was tabled for information and will not be referred to a standing committee.
The Constitution Review Commission submitted its report and Draft Constitution to President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu on 31 August.
Government has previously stressed that tabling the report does not mean it has accepted or adopted all of the Commission’s recommendations.
The Commission received 1,220 submissions and 3,873 people participated in face-to-face consultations at 105 venues across Fiji.
Among its major proposals is the replacement of Fiji’s current unicameral Parliament with a 60-member bicameral legislature.
The proposed Parliament would comprise a 41-member House of Representatives and a 19-member Senate.
The Commission has proposed replacing the current single national constituency and proportional representation system with a Mixed Member Proportional system combining constituency-based first-past-the-post seats with proportional party-list seats.
It recommends an approximate 60:40 ratio between constituency and party-list seats and retaining the five per cent party-vote threshold for allocating list seats.
The Commission also proposes an independent Constituency Boundaries Commission, with electoral boundaries reviewed after every census.
The proposed Senate would be made up of members selected on the basis of “service, expertise and merit”, with safeguards intended to minimise political appointments and promote representation of women and young people.
The Commission has also proposed removing the appointment of the President from the current parliamentary process.
Instead, a seven-member Presidential Appointments Commission would appoint the President.
The proposed body would include the Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition, three representatives of the Bose Levu Vakaturaga, one representative of the Fiji Council of Churches and one representative from interfaith religions.
The President would be limited to two three-year terms.
The Commission has also proposed new eligibility requirements for presidential nominees, including a requirement that nominees have remained outside political party office and candidacy for at least eight years.
The Commission recommends redefining the constitutional role of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces to emphasise democratic civilian authority and external defence.
Under the proposal, the military could provide domestic assistance to civil authorities only when authorised by Parliament.
The Commission would retain the Commander’s executive command of the RFMF but make that authority subject to Cabinet direction through the minister responsible for the military.
It also proposes a Military Court equivalent in status to the High Court.
The appointment process for the heads of the Police, Corrections and RFMF would also be standardised, with appointments made by the President on the advice of an independent Constitutional Offices Commission.
Other institutional reforms include strengthening the independence of the Public Service Commission and merging the Electoral Commission and Fijian Elections Office into a single electoral body.
The Commission has proposed changes to the Judicial Services Commission aimed at strengthening judicial independence.
It recommends that JSC appointments be made without consultation with the Attorney-General.
The report says the appointments should promote “broad representation, judicial wisdom and legal expertise”.
The proposed reforms would also separate the Attorney-General’s political and legal functions.
Under the proposal, the Solicitor-General would become the Government’s “independent legal adviser”, while the Attorney-General would retain a ministerial and policy role.
The Bose Levu Vakaturaga (BLV) or the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) would be given constitutional status and wider responsibilities under the proposed Draft Constitution.
The proposed membership includes the President, Prime Minister, minister responsible for iTaukei affairs, six members nominated by the minister, 42 chiefs representing Fiji’s 14 provinces and three members nominated by the Rotuma Island Council.
The BLV would have responsibilities covering iTaukei culture, traditions, values, heritage, customary law and the wellbeing of iTaukei communities.
It would also monitor and advise on policies and legislation affecting the rights and interests of iTaukei communities and nominate three members to the proposed Presidential Appointments Commission.
Beyond iTaukei affairs, the proposed BLV would have a role in monitoring sources of division and conflict, encouraging dispute resolution and reconciliation, and promoting social cohesion and unity.
On the use of the term “Fijian”, the Commission recommends retaining it as the common national identity on an interim basis while establishing a formal process to build broader consensus on its long-term use.
The issue remained contentious during consultations, with submissions from some Indigenous Fijian communities calling for “Fijian” to be reserved for Indigenous people registered in the Vola ni Kawa Bula.
The Commission also recorded views supporting the continued use of “Fijian” as a common identity for all citizens.
It proposed a constitutionally prescribed process involving the State, the Bose Levu Vakaturaga and civil society to seek a long-term settlement.
The Commission said many Indigenous Fijians who participated in consultations were not necessarily opposed to sharing the name but wanted to have been consulted.
“Many Indigenous Fijians who spoke to the Commission said they did not mind sharing the name, but would have liked to have been asked,” the report states.
The recommendations contained in the report and Draft Constitution remain proposals.
They do not change Fiji’s current constitutional or electoral arrangements and would require the appropriate constitutional and parliamentary processes before they could take effect…..PACNEWS
FIJI – CONSTITUTIONAL REFORM: FIJI TIMES PACNEWS 3: Tue 22 Sep 2026
Commission says 2013 Fiji Constitution should not be completely discarded
SUVA, 22 SEPTEMBER 2026 (FIJI TIMES)—Fiji’s Constitution Review Commission says that while a large number of submissions called for the complete removal of the 2013 Constitution, it was also urged not to discard provisions considered beneficial.
In its report, the Commission said strong views about the validity of the Constitution emerged during consultations, which it linked to Fiji’s constitutional history and what it described as the “obscure origins” of the 2013 Constitution.
“A large volume of submissions called for the full removal of the 2013 Constitution,” the Commission states.
However, it said other submissions cautioned that addressing what they regarded as the Constitution’s “democratic deficit” should not result in provisions considered beneficial being abandoned.
“We also heard from submitters that in addressing the democratic deficit of the 2013 Constitution, we would do well not to disregard its beneficial aspects,” the report states.
The Commission said it therefore adopted a selective approach to reform, recommending changes where they were considered necessary, supported by public submissions and reasonably justified in strengthening democracy, nation-building and the rule of law.
Where existing provisions were supported or had not attracted significant concerns, the Commission said it had generally avoided changing them.
The report also acknowledges that some proposed solutions draw on Fiji’s previous constitutional arrangements, but says simply returning to earlier systems would not necessarily address contemporary circumstances.
“People have told us they want a lasting constitution that provides the stability to move the country forward, while being responsive to citizens’ aspirations,” the Commission states.
It said Fiji’s social, political and economic circumstances had changed considerably and any constitutional framework needed to address present concerns while remaining forward-looking.
The Commission also cautioned against allowing immediate grievances arising from Fiji’s political history to determine the country’s long-term constitutional direction.
“A constitution must ultimately reflect actionable aspirations, not merely be centred on retribution,” the report states.
It said constitutional decisions could have consequences spanning generations and therefore needed to consider nation-building, good governance, the rule of law and protection of fundamental rights and freedoms….PACNEWS
PAC – PACIFIC MEDIA SUMMIT/ANTI CORRUPTION: PACNEWS PACNEWS 3: Tue 22 Sep 2026
UNODC Adviser calls for more support for Pacific Journalists covering Crime and Corruption
By Pita Ligaiula in Savusavu
SAVUSAVU, 22 SEPTEMBER 2026 (PACNEWS)—UNODC Pacific Regional Anti-Corruption Adviser Marie Pegie Cauchois has offered further support and training for Pacific journalists covering corruption and transnational organised crime, saying understanding what happens behind a story is as important as what eventually appears in print.
Speaking at the closing of the Pre-Pacific Media Summit workshop on Climate Change and Corruption in Savusavu, Cauchois said the discussions had provided insight into the decisions journalists make before publishing a story.
“I was very impressed with the rich and thought-provoking discussion that’s happened here,” Cauchois said.
“We often see what is in the paper, and it’s easy to judge what is in the paper, but what you’re telling us is everything that goes behind, and what goes in your mind before you go and put the pen to paper.”
She said journalists must weigh several factors before publishing, including the quality of information, the environment in which they are working and their personal safety.
“The really important part here is about having the right information, then deciding what is the environment like, and why would you publish, or how safety is taken into account,” she said.
Cauchois thanked participants for openly sharing their experiences during the workshop.
“Thank you very much for being very honest and very open in sharing your experience,” she said.
Cauchois said UNODC was considering ways it could provide further practical support to journalists and civil society working on anti-corruption and organised crime issues.
She said small grants used for anti-corruption work could potentially be expanded to support work focused on transnational organised crime.
“Perhaps at some stage, there might be a possibility to do the small grants that we’ve done for anti-corruption,” Cauchois said.
“That might be a possibility for small grants for transnational organised crime topics.”
She said the idea was worth exploring following discussions during the workshop.
Cauchois said the UNODC remained available to support Pacific journalists and other stakeholders through training and further discussions on specific areas of concern.
“This conversation on transnational organised crime has been ongoing,” she said.
“But I just want to say that we are a partner, and we’re very happy to be providing more support, or more training if required, or more discussion to go deeper into specific areas.”
The workshop brought together Pacific journalists to discuss the links between climate change, corruption and transnational organised crime, including the challenges journalists face when reporting on complex and sensitive issues.
Cauchois said the discussions highlighted the importance of understanding the work and risks involved in producing public-interest journalism.
She said UNODC looked forward to continuing the engagement with Pacific media…..PACNEWS
PAC – PACIFIC MEDIA SUMMIT/ORGANISED CRIME: PACNEWS PACNEWS 3: Tue 22 Sep 2026
‘Truth should be protected by the truth’ — PINA President on risks facing journalists
By Pita Ligaiula in Savusavu
SAVUSAVU 22 SEPTEMBER 2026 (PACNEWS)—Organised crime in the Pacific is growing and becoming more sophisticated, with journalists facing increasing threats as they investigate drug trafficking, gangs and criminal networks, says Pacific Islands News Association (PINA) President Kalafi Moala.
Speaking on a panel discussion on organised crime, Kalafi said criminal networks operating in Tonga had evolved over decades and had expanded their activities despite arrests and prosecutions.
“One is that it has grown. It hasn’t had a positive effect, it just keeps growing. And it gets more sophisticated,” Kalafi said.
He said Tonga had historically been used as a major network for cocaine distribution, with links extending to Australia, New Zealand and Hawaii.
Kalafi said some leaders of those networks had gone to prison but the networks themselves had not been dismantled.
“The network never dismantled. And it’s the same network now involved in the distribution, not only of cocaine, but of meth,” he said.
Kalafi said Tonga was now facing a more serious problem, with methamphetamine allegedly being manufactured locally after ingredients and equipment were brought into the country.
“They’re not just distributing meth coming through to Tonga, they’re making it locally, manufacturing it,” he said.
He said drugs were then being moved to New Zealand and Australia.
“So we do have a problem, and in terms of result and outcome, it’s just getting worse,” Kalafi said.
The growth of organised crime has also created greater risks for journalists covering drug trafficking and gangs.
Kalafi recalled an incident involving a reporter from the Kele’a newspaper who reported on Tongan gangs.
He said a gang member came to the newspaper’s office the following day and allegedly threatened the reporter.
“She was threatened, ‘if you continue to report it, we’re going to get you’,” he said.
Kalafi said journalists faced real dangers when reporting on organised crime, but argued that truth-telling remained central to the profession.
“Well, don’t they tell the truth? Truth should be protected by the truth.
“And the most important thing in our profession is that there are no limitations,” he said.
On personal safety, Kalafi said journalists had to recognise the risks associated with the profession.
“In terms of personal protection against harm and all of that, I think if we have a concern and we are fearful about it, worried about it, we should get out. There are dangers in being a journalist,” he said.
Kalafi said journalists should not allow fear to prevent them from doing their work, while acknowledging that journalists could not protect themselves from every threat.
“My feeling is that if you’re telling the truth, you need to trust the truth to protect you.
“But there are other things you cannot protect. Anybody can walk in there and put a Machine gun or bullet in your head,” he said.
He said the threat of organised crime also extended into institutions and public services.
“Much of the problem is happening among the people in authority,” he said.
He referred to cases involving alleged drug activity connected to police, financial institutions and prisons.
Kalafi said the spread of drugs was also placing pressure on Tonga’s limited treatment and counselling services.
“We don’t have any other church or government facility for the counselling and the treatment of drug addicts,” he said.
Kalafi said people dealing with drug addiction and mental health problems were often left without adequate specialised treatment.
“So that is a national problem that we are facing,” Kalafi said.
He said the growing reach of organised crime required continued reporting and scrutiny, despite the risks faced by journalists covering the issue…..PACNEWS
FIJI – PRE COP31: FIJI GOVT/PACNEWS PACNEWS 3: Tue 22 Sep 2026
Fiji calls for climate promises to become projects at COP31 agenda launch
NEW YORK, 22 SEPTEMBER 2026 (FIJI GOVT/PACNEWS)— Fiji has called for climate commitments to translate into projects on the ground, with climate finance reaching communities most affected by climate change.
Fiji made the call at the launch of the COP31 Action Agenda on the margins of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.
Fiji’s Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation Lynda Tabuya said climate negotiations must now deliver practical results for frontline communities.
“For Fiji, climate action must mean safer homes, stronger roads and infrastructure, protected coastlines, secure water and livelihoods, and communities better prepared for stronger climate impacts.”
Tabuya said Fiji would carry the message into the Pre-COP31 meeting it will host in October, where it will push for stronger implementation and more accessible climate finance, particularly for adaptation and loss and damage.
She welcomed the COP31 Presidency’s Climate Implementation Bridge Initiative, which aims to narrow the gap between global climate commitments and action.
“Our people cannot live on climate promises. They need climate action they can see and feel in their communities.”
Fiji will continue working with the COP31 Presidency, Pacific partners and the international community to turn climate commitments into action on the ground….PACNEWS
SOL – DIPLOMACY: SOL GOVT PACNEWS 3: Tue 22 Sep 2026
Solomon Islands, Australia advance treaty talks
NEW YORK, 22 SEPTEMBER 2026 (SOL GOVT)— Solomon Islands and Australia have stepped up discussions on finalising treaty arrangements between the two countries, as both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
Solomon Islands Foreign Affairs and External Trade Minister Rick Houenipwela met Australian Foreign Minister Senator Penny Wong on the margins of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.
The talks focused on the ongoing dialogue between Honiara and Canberra on the treaty arrangements and the next steps towards finalising them.
The two Ministers reaffirmed the strength and enduring nature of the Solomon Islands-Australia relationship and the importance of continued engagement to expand bilateral cooperation and advance shared interests.
Wong reaffirmed Australia’s longstanding friendship with Solomon Islands and its commitment to the Pacific region.
The Ministers also identified opportunities to deepen cooperation and further strengthen relations between the two countries.
The meeting comes ahead of a bilateral meeting between Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese later today…..PACNEWS
AUST – DIPLOMACY: AAP PACNEWS 3: Tue 22 Sep 2026
Why Solomon Islands PM had to apologise to Albanese
NEW YORK, 22 SEPTEMBER 2026 (AAP)—A comprehensive treaty between Australia and the Solomon Islands would be transformational for the broader Pacific region, Anthony Albanese has declared.
The prime minister met with his Solomon Islands counterpart Matthew Wale on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York on Tuesday.
It is the third time the two leaders have met in almost as many months since Wale was sworn in as prime minister in May.
The pair was due to have met at the Pacific Islands Forum in Palau earlier in September, but Wale was forced to pull out from the summit at the eleventh hour due to a no-confidence motion being filed against him in parliament.
The motion was later withdrawn.
“I’m sorry that we didn’t catch up in Palau, but it’s understandable, but your delegation was certainly there, and I was able to catch up with your ministers,” Albanese said in opening remarks to the bilateral meeting.
“A comprehensive treaty … will be transformational.
“We want to be the partner of choice when it comes to the Pacific.”
Australia has been seeking to sign treaties and agreements with countries in the Pacific to curb the influence of China in the region.
China had signed a security pact with the Solomon Islands in 2022, but Wale said the strongest partnership remained with Australia.
“Our relationship is deep, you are our partner of choice, by sheer longevity and persistence and perseverance on both sides, and we appreciate that very much,” Wale said.
“Nothing’s going to change any of that, but of course, there is much work yet to be done to continue that relationship and to continue to deepen it and strengthen it”.
Wale issued a light-hearted apology to Australia’s prime minister following the pair’s last in-person meeting in Honiara.
Albanese was a guest at Independence Day commemorations in the Solomon Islands, where Mr Wale gave a speech to the crowd that went for more than an hour.
The Solomons leader said his upcoming speech at the United Nations General Assembly, his first as prime minister, would not be as long.
“I’m looking forward to enjoying giving a few speeches here and there nothing as eloquent as (Albanese’s),” he said
“I made a promise I won’t do another Fidel,” making reference to former Cuban leader Fidel Castro.
Castro delivered the longest timed speech in UN history in 1960, speaking for 4.5 hours.
Delegates are told to keep their speeches to no more than 15 minutes…..PACNEWS
FIJI – ELECTION/POLITICS: FIJI SUN PACNEWS 3: Tue 22 Sep 2026
Proposed Fiji election fines ‘draconian’: FNU academic
SUVA, 22 SEPTEMBER 2026 (FIJI SUN)—Proposed fines of up to $100,000(US$50,000) for political parties and $40,000(US$20,000) for candidates under the Electoral (Amendment) Bill 2026 have been described as “draconian” and unaffordable for most Fijians.
This was highlighted by Fiji National University Head of Ethics and Governance Mosmi Bhim in her written submission to Parliament’s Standing Committee on Justice, Law and Human Rights last week.
Bhim said the Government had promised to remove such laws, but the proposed fines were as harsh as those under the Electoral Act 2014.
She said a minimum-wage earner on $5 an hour earned about $10,400(US$5,200) a year, meaning a $5000(US$2,500) or $10,000(US$5,000) fine imposed on an ordinary voter could amount to six months’ to a year’s pay.
“It will be a travesty of justice if harsh fines are imposed on persons who do not have means to pay them,” Bhim said.
She warned that the penalties could discourage people without significant financial means from contesting elections.
Under the Bill, corrupt electoral practices carry a maximum penalty of two years’ imprisonment, or fines of up to $100,000 for political parties, $40,000 for candidates and polling agents, and $10,000(US$5,000) for other persons.
Illegal practices carry fines of up to $40,000(US$20,000) for political parties, $20,000(US$10,000) for candidates and polling agents, and $5000(US$2,500) for other persons.
Bhim recommended that:
*penalties be lowered to reflect the income of most Fijians;
*a penalty unit of $200(US$100), equivalent to the minimum weekly wage, be adopted;
*the minimum fine for voters and candidates be set at $200 (US$100) and the maximum at $10,400(US$5,200);
*restrictions on opinion polls, surveys and research be removed;
*limits on election education by universities and non-government organisations after the writ is issued be removed;
*the requirement for political parties to explain how they would fund their election promises be reinstated;
*“mental disorder” be retained in voter registration laws instead of “unsound mind”; and
*the proposed rule allowing political parties and candidates to give gifts to villages be removed.
Bhim said fines should not exceed $30,000(US$15,000), noting that only about 20,000 people in Fiji earned above the income tax threshold.
She also warned that the proposed gifts provision could create opportunities for corruption, citing the 2001 agriculture scam in which more than $16 million(US$8 million) was lost…..PACNEWS
AUST – ARTIFICIAL INTELIGENCE: AAP PACNEWS 3: Tue 22 Sep 2026
Australia urges slowdown of AI race in global statement
NEW YORK, 22 SEPTEMBER 2026 (AAP)—Australia Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is confident other countries will add their voices to growing calls to rein in the rapid growth of artificial intelligence.
Australia was one of more than 20 countries that signed a joint statement urging additional safeguards for AI and to keep it under human control.
The statement was issued ahead of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where AI measures are set to be on the agenda.
“AI must remain under human direction, oversight and control. It must be developed and used in line with international law,” the statement, released on Tuesday, Australian time, said.
“Leading scientists and executives are warning that the pace of development could outpace our ability to manage emerging risks.”
Alongside Australia, leaders such as Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen signed the statement.
The joint statement also remained open for endorsement for other countries to add to its list of signatories, something Albanese hoped would happen.
“Other nations are putting forward their national interests, he told reporters in New York on Tuesday.
“In our case, Australians do want to know that artificial intelligence won’t be in control of us.
“We need to shape how it rolls out, rather than have artificial intelligence shape the way that our society functions.”
The statement comes just days before US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping meet in Washington on Thursday.
Trump has labelled concerns about the rise of AI as a hoax, saying he did not want to cede ground in the technological race to China.
Albanese said Australia played a central role in putting the statement together, with the prime minister having direct discussions with Finnish President Alexander Stubb, who issued the joint position on behalf of other nations.
“We continue to engage with our neighbours, this has been something that is discussed between leaders, just as it’s been discussed around lounge rooms,” he said.
“Artificial intelligence will have a massive impact on the way that our lives and our work is conducted.”
The statement said risks with AI needed to be addressed, without widening the gap between countries for access to some of the benefits of the technology.
The signatories called for AI companies to develop transparent safety protocols and for governments to develop common standards for the technology.
It also urged the UN to explore options to create an international institution that could set out AI standards.
Albanese met with von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa on the sidelines of the UN, where technology was also a focus.
The European Commission said Australia had been a trailblazer in implementing a ban on under 16s using social media, noting the EU was looking at similar laws.
A free-trade agreement with the EU was signed earlier in 2026, which coincided with a visit by von der Leyen to Australia.
She also said she was pleased Australian researchers would soon be ale able to join Horizon Europe, the EU’s funding programme for innovation.
Albanese said Australia joining the program represented a significant advancement.
“Australia’s always been good at innovation and research and scientific advancement. We often have missed out on a bit of the commercialisation,” he said.
Ahead of the UN General Assembly, Albanese also gave an address to the Partners for Multilateralism, International Law, Peace and Prosperity summit.
It was attended by the European Commission president and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
Albanese said countries could not afford to be isolated in turbulent periods.
“Global challenges cannot be solved by countries acting alone, especially right now, when we are facing one of the toughest periods in modern history,” he said…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
PAC – ARTIFICIAL INTELIGENCE/MEDIA: FBC NEWS PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 22 Sep 2026
Media jobs at risk over AI expansion
SUVA, 22 SEPTEMBER 2026 (FBC NEWS)—Artificial intelligence’s rapid growth in the region could transform Pacific newsrooms, but it could also put pressure on journalism jobs and newsroom revenue.
Speaking at a workshop for media and communication students in Suva, U.S journalism educator Professor Steven Youngblood says AI is already capable of performing tasks traditionally carried out by journalists, from writing and transcription to producing and processing content.
He warned that the impact could be particularly significant for smaller Pacific newsrooms, where resources and staffing are already limited.
Youngblood explained that one of the biggest concerns is the potential loss of entry-level journalism opportunities, where young reporters traditionally develop essential skills such as writing, editing and reporting.
He also warns that over-reliance on AI could weaken those skills, creating a generation of journalists who become dependent on technology rather than developing their own abilities.
However, he said AI could also provide opportunities for Pacific newsrooms to increase their capacity.
He said this allows small teams to research, translate, analyse data and produce content more efficiently.
The challenge, Youngblood says, will be ensuring AI remains a tool that supports journalists rather than a replacement for their jobs…..PACNEWS
FIJI – AVIATION: FBC NEWS PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 22 Sep 2026
New deal to keep airspace safe
NADI, 22 SEPTEMBER 2026 (FBC NEWS)—Fiji Airports has renewed a five-year agreement with Radiola for specialist flight inspection services across Fiji.
The agreement extends a partnership that has lasted more than 25 years.
The services will be used to inspect and verify air navigation systems and instrument flight procedures.
Fiji Airports Chief Executive Mesake Nawari says the renewed agreement reinforces the organisation’s focus on aviation safety and reliable air navigation services.
Radiola Executive Director Richard Thompson said Fiji was the company’s first international customer.
Thompson says Radiola is proud of the relationship built with Fiji over the past 25 years.
The flight inspections verify that navigation equipment and flight procedures meet international safety standards.
They also support the safe and efficient operation of Fiji’s airspace…PACNEWS
BOUG – ARSON SUSPECT: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS BIZ: Thu 17 Sep 2026
Nine suspects in Panguna mine fire attack in custody
BUKA, 22 SEPTEMBER 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—Bougainville police chief Francis Tokura says nine suspects are in police custody while search is on for remaining 19 men involved in burning machinery at Panguna.
“From tip offs from the locals, we were able to catch nine suspects who are now locked up at the Buka police station charged with the crimes committed,” he said.
He said the remaining men had been identified and a search will be conducted to bring them in to face the law.
From police reports, on Sept 13, between 3am and 4am, more than 30 men drove into the Panguna with high powered rifles and attacked staff of Indian company, Lloyds Metals and Energy Limited (LMEL).
A fight broke out when local security and staff of LMEL tried to stop the criminals from destroying property and in the process a man was killed. The deceased is yet to be identified.
It was reported that about 37 truck and machinery involving large dump trucks, water tanks, excavators and other machinery were burned by the criminal elements.
Tokura said the attackers were identified from the villages surrounding Panguna and three villages of Tarutoea, Omaia and Pavaire in Kieta.
Tokura said there were unconfirmed reports that the Panguna event is also linked to prominent leaders who oppose the mine opening.
“We are yet to establish names and the reasons behind the move taken last week. There are two parties now within Panguna and surrounding villages where there are some for the mining to return, and those who still oppose the development.
“The only issue is they are all related but they have their own supporters like what happened last week,” he said.
He said the police were still stationed at Panguna to monitor the developments on the ground and will remain until ABG steps in to help with a formal police post.
“The police as we are always at the forefront of any development to ensure safety is guaranteed and to ensure law and order. We are working around the clock to ensure those men are caught and face the full force of the law,” he said.
He said Lloyds had started erecting dongas to house a police post in the three areas of Loloho to accommodate the wharf areas, Morgan junction, where a base will be set before ascending Panguna and at the mine township of Panguna.
Last week, landowners of the surrounding Panguna communities met to address the Panguna events and declare a unified and renewed commitment to the ABG’s plans for the Panguna Mine Redevelopment.
The Panguna Landowner Interim Council, chiefs, community leaders, and landowners from Guava, Dapera, Moroni and Pirurari reconciled with ABG and developer, LMEL
Guava chief Titus Miri said they were committed to ensuring that the Panguna Mine Redevelopment progressed and urged for an end to the destruction of equipment and property at all sites, and any retaliatory action.
LMEL chief executive officer Hulala Tokome said there were ways and processes that all parties could use to solve concerns.
“We have lost millions of kina worth of machinery and equipment, but violence and destruction must never become the way we resolve our differences,” he said.
He said Lloyds was not going anywhere and was committed to creating employment, training young people, supporting health and education, building infrastructure, creating and supporting local businesses and leaving sustainable communities for future generations…..PACNEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Pacific Ocean Initiative launched to strengthen resilience of Pacific marine ecosystems and coastal communities
DEUBA, 22 SEPTEMBER 2026 (SPREP/SPC/AFD) —A new regional initiative was launched today in Fiji, bringing together Pacific regional organisations and development partners to support Pacific countries, territories and community action for a healthier, more resilient ocean.
The “Pacific Ocean Initiative – Sustainable Protection and Management of Coastal and Marine Ecosystems for Community Resilience” will invest in Pacific knowledge, research, and partnerships, strengthening the capacity of regional and national institutions and communities to generate and apply evidence to ocean and coastal management.
The Initiative is supported by an €8 million (US$9.17 million) grant from the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) over five years and is being implemented by the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) and the Pacific Community (SPC), in collaboration with Pacific Island Countries and Territories, technical partners, NGOs and civil society.
Elodie Vitalis, Head of AFD in Fiji, highlighted that “through AFD’s FJD$ 20,4 million (US$10.2 million) grant, we are making a significant investment in the future of the Pacific Ocean and the communities that depend on it. For Pacific Island countries, protecting the ocean is not only about conservation: it is about food security, livelihoods, economic resilience and the ability to adapt to climate change. Our role as a development bank is to provide the financing and partnerships that can help turn Pacific knowledge and locally led solutions into lasting impact at scale.”
Coastal and marine ecosystems and resources are increasingly under pressure from climate change, ocean warming and acidification, pollution, habitat degradation and unsustainable use of natural resources. The Pacific Ocean Initiative responds to these challenges by strengthening the skills, knowledge and collaboration at regional, national and community levels.
For Benjamin Delannoy, Chargé d’Affaires, Embassy of France in Fiji, “France is committed to supporting Pacific-led solutions for the protection of the ocean and the resilience of Pacific communities. Through our partnership with SPREP, SPC and Pacific countries and territories, we are pleased to contribute to regional efforts that connect biodiversity conservation, sustainable resource management and climate resilience.”
Launched during the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) pre-COP, the Initiative will support Pacific countries and territories in putting into practice the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) and its 2030 targets, particularly Target 3 on conserving and managing at least 30 per cent of terrestrial, inland water, coastal and marine areas by 2030. It will also support Target 8 on climate resilience and ecosystem-based approaches, and Targets 9 and 10 on the sustainable use and management of wild species and fisheries.
Sefanaia Nawadra, SPREP Director General, stated that “the Pacific Ocean Initiative provides an opportunity to translate global biodiversity commitments into practical action that reflects the realities, priorities and knowledge of Pacific Island countries, territories and communities. Our contribution to the Global Biodiversity Framework must be grounded in strong Pacific institutions, effective partnerships and action that delivers benefits for both nature and people.”
The Pacific Ocean Initiative will benefit 18 eligible Pacific Island Countries and Territories, strengthening regional collaboration, national capacities and community-level action to protect and sustainably manage marine and coastal ecosystems and resources, through knowledge development and exchange, shared expertise and decision-support tools.
SPREP ensures the overall project management and coordination and leads a component on conservation and sustainable management of critical marine and coastal ecosystems and species such as coral reefs, seabirds, cetaceans and sea turtles. SPC leads the component on community-based coastal fisheries management, linking community action with national and regional support.
SPREP-led activities will also contribute to strengthening regional cooperation on marine protected areas (MPAs) and other effective area-based conservation measures (OECMs). They will help Pacific countries and territories share experience, strengthen capacity and improve the effectiveness, connectivity and governance of these approaches.
At the community level, the Initiative will support the management of coastal fisheries and the ecosystems on which communities depend for food security, livelihoods and resilience. It builds on established Pacific frameworks for coastal fisheries, including A New Song for Coastal Fisheries – Pathways to Change: The Noumea Strategy and the Pacific Framework for Action on Scaling up Community-based Fisheries Management 2021–2030.
This was further emphasised by Katrine Haahr Lorentzen, Programme Manager at SPC: “Coastal fisheries are central to the lives and livelihoods of Pacific communities. By strengthening community-based management and linking local action with national and regional support, the Pacific Ocean Initiative can help scale approaches that place healthy ecosystems, sustainable fisheries and community wellbeing at the heart of coastal resource management.”
Contributing to the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, the Initiative will connect existing Pacific expertise, institutions and approaches, rather than create parallel systems. The regional approach is particularly important, as marine ecosystems and species extend across national boundaries and many pressures at community level are shared across countries and islands.
As Pacific Island Countries and Territories work towards the Global Biodiversity Framework’s 2030 goals, the Initiative shows how Pacific-led, locally grounded and regionally coordinated action can protect biodiversity and sustain the ocean on which Pacific peoples depend. It is a collective investment in healthy marine ecosystems, resilient coastal communities and a sustainable Blue Pacific….PACNEWS
Contacts: SPREP – Dr Nicolas ROCLE, Coastal and Marine Management Specialist, nicolasr.ext@sprep.org
SPC –. Katrine Haahr Lorentzen, Programmes Manager, FAME Division, katrinel@spc.int
AFD –Elodie Vitalis, Head of AFD Fiji Office, vitalise@afd.fr
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Russia’s War on Ukrainian Trade Is a War on Global Food Security
Op-ed by the Ambassador of the European Union to the Pacific, Barbara Plinkert
SUVA, 22 SEPTEMBER 2026 (EU PACIFIC)—When nearly 80 percent of the world faces hunger, blocking one of the world’s major breadbaskets is neither an accident nor merely a military tactic – it is a direct assault on global stability.
Russia is systematically strangling Ukraine’s agricultural exports across the Black Sea, the Danube River, and overland corridors. By targeting shipping, ports, and warehouses, Moscow is weaponising food against millions of vulnerable people across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Latin America, and, indirectly, the Pacific.
This crisis is engineered for maximum damage. As Ukraine moves through its harvest season, missile and drone strikes have trapped grain inside the country, cutting exports in half. Over 9 million tonnes could rot by November due to destroyed storage, triggering agricultural shortages and driving up global prices well into 2027.
The shockwaves reverberate far beyond Europe. Today, an estimated 645 million people face hunger globally, and vulnerable communities are the least able to absorb another artificial supply shock.
Before the invasion, Ukraine supplied 15 percent of global corn exports, 10 percent of wheat, and 50 percent of sunflower oil, making it a vital supplier to regions such as North Africa and the Middle East.
These disruptions also ripple across the ocean to the Pacific Islands. Due to their physical remoteness, Pacific communities rely heavily on imported essential goods, including food and fuel, making Pacific households uniquely exposed to the effects of global flashpoints – particularly the supply shocks that drive up global prices.
Rising prices quickly filter down into grocery bills, transport costs, and household budgets, straining food security, nutrition, health, and wellbeing. Compounded by climate change and intensifying natural disasters, these pressures further erode Pacific resilience. This invasion must not be allowed to become a force multiplier for instability, draining the resources Pacific nations need to confront their own existential challenges.
Geographically, Ukraine and the Pacific are oceans apart, but the geopolitical stakes are identical. Universal principles of peace, sovereignty, and territorial integrity are core to the Pacific way of life and guided the historic Blue Pacific Ocean of Peace Declaration.
Pacific leaders have long made it clear: global disputes must be resolved through dialogue, in pursuit of long-lasting peace and security.
The European Union (EU) is working to mitigate the impact. Through its “Solidarity Lanes,” the EU has opened alternative land routes to move Ukrainian grain to global markets. However, land routes are a temporary band-aid. They cannot replace safe navigation in the Black Sea, which handles 90 percent of Ukraine’s agricultural trade.
An immediate arrangement is required to allow the safe passage of vessels. The international community cannot accept a situation where millions far from the battlefield pay the price.
Ukraine has consistently demonstrated its readiness for peace, calling for an unconditional ceasefire since the early days of the invasion, yet Russia continues to escalate its aggression.
The EU greatly values the Pacific countries that stand up for international law and consistently voice their support for Ukraine’s sovereignty on the global stage. Distance does not diminish solidarity: their moral leadership sends a powerful message that regional security and global stability are inseparable.
The EU will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Ukraine for as long as it takes. But an unconditional ceasefire leading to just and lasting peace requires collective pressure.
The EU calls on its Pacific partners to keep standing with it. Ending this war protects Ukrainian lives – and helps preserve the predictable global trading conditions that underpin economic resilience across the Pacific…PACNEWS
