No need for concern: Vanuatu clarifies two-gender law
As Pacific countries grapple with the increasing visibility of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, Vanuatu has proposed a two-gender law. But Vanuatu’s Attorney General (AG), Arnold Kiel Loughman, has
A matter of pride: Ellia runs for the truth
For someone who once doubted whether they belonged on a rugby pitch, Ellia Green has become one of the most fearless voices for inclusion, representation and authenticity. Famously known for winning gold with
Climate Hypocrisy: Australia expands Woodside gas production
The Labor government in Australia has announced a massive extension of gas production off the coast of Western Australia (WA), in one of its first major decisions since returning to office in May’s national elections.
We’re open for tourism: Vanuatu, New Caledonia ready for visitors
The tourism industries of Vanuatu and New Caledonia want travelers to know they are open and welcoming visitors again after being hit by a devastating earthquake and political unrest
Coalition looms: Partnership key to next government
A coalition might be the option for Samoa’s leaders at the end of the August polls. Three parties seem certain to command the majority of votes – HRPP, FAST, and SUP. If winning comes down to forming a coalition,
Race against time: Budget loss forces snap poll
Samoa will head to the polls on August 29, and the Office of the Electoral Commissioner (OEC) must race against time to deliver a credible, inclusive election. The Polynesian nation is at an interesting point, with the
Briefs
American Samoa The Trump administration is considering auctioning leases for seabed mining off American Samoa, following a request from California-based firm Impossible Metals. The company applied on April 15 to mine
Whispers
Just too much Which national airline has taken to intentionally overbooking flights? From claiming top place in international reviews on comfort and safety, to packing the passengers in and turning guests away at the
Time for Change at MSG
The change in chairmanship of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) allows for new initiatives in this sub-regional bloc. But do the Melanesian leaders have the courage to address the huge elephants which exist in the
Rotuma – Forgotten Island: Punching above its weight
Rotumans celebrated Rotuma Day this month – 144 years after seven chiefs ceded the island to Great Britain.
Briefs
US President Donald Trump has reopened parts of the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument to commercial fishing, drawing praise from American Samoa’s Delegate to Congress, Uifa’atali Amata Radewagen, who
When less is more: University shifts learning focus
With eyes fixed on the past, the region’s newest university is intent on changing the people of Pasifika.
Fuel cost threat: Economic challenge for Island aviation
Pacific aviation remains a critical service but faces deep rooted challenges that limit the viability of new airlines and hinder regional growth.
Passenger forecast soars: Regional airlines to reposition
Forecasts by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) indicate that the biggest growth in air passenger numbers in the period 2023-2043 will be in the Asia-Pacific
Training is the key: Safety remains priority
Expanded training will be the backbone of plans to strengthen regional aviation over the next
Sky is no limit: Kiribati pilot inspires girls
In the skies above the vast ocean, which links the many atolls of Kiribati, Captain Salote Mataitini holds the lives of her passengers in her firm, capable hands.
Quick flight over Pacific air space
Garmin has announced the expansion of its Navigation Database to include the South Pacific region, which includes Australia, New Zealand. Previously available only to users in the Americas and Europe, this database now
We’re in demand: World demands quality cocoa
Consumers are willing to pay top dollar for quality product – especially decadent chocolates and coffee.
Farmwork pays for Premila Devi
At the crossroads of life, Premila Devi was suddenly widowed at 36, becoming the sole breadwinner for her family of
Stability in the field: Agriculture steadies the Pacific ship
Agriculture remains the root of stable economies across the Pacific.
We Say: Saving the piggy bank
When African Swine Fever was found in the Southern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea just after COVID-19, authorities feared a run on the banks.
