In this bulletin:
1. PACIFIC — Vanuatu celebrates historic appointment of Anna Naupa as MSG Director General
2. SOL — Solomon Islands Governor General suspends Police Commissioner Vaevaso
3. PACIFIC — Palau prepares for Pacific summit as climate and security pressures build
4. PACIFIC — Solomon Islands minister says security and development must move together
5. PACIFIC — Kiribati minister warns online misinformation distorts Pacific youth’s reality
6. FIJI — Election delay would need parliamentary approval: Fiji PM
7. FIJI — U.S, Fiji launch joint sea patrols to target illegal fishing and drug trafficking
8. PACNEWS BIZ — Fuel crisis exposes Pacific economic vulnerability, leaders say
9. PACNEWS BIZ — State of economy dialogue prompts National Budget rethink, says Fiji PM
10. PACNEWS BIZ — Fiji reinforces regional leadership in sustainable Tuna fisheries management
11. PACNEWS BIZ — Dead fish, discoloured sea spark fear in Yap
12 PACNEWS BIZ — Fiji and NZ business leaders strengthen trade and investment ties
13. PACNEWS DIGEST — Civil Society engagement: Financing national priorities in a changing world
14. PACNEWS DIGEST — SPREP and Pacific Disability Forum to empower women with disabilities
PAC – MSG DG APPOINTED: PACNEWS PACNEWS 1: Thu 18 Jun 2026
Vanuatu celebrates historic appointment of Anna Naupa as MSG Director General
PORT VILA, 18 JUNE 2026 (PACNEWS) —Vanuatu has hailed the appointment of Dr Anna Naupa as the new Director General of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG), making her the first woman and first ni-Vanuatu to lead the regional organisation in its 40-year history.
In a statement the Office of Prime Minister Jotham Napat described the appointment as a historic achievement for Vanuatu and the wider Melanesian region.
“Today, Vanuatu stands proud.
“Dr Anna Naupa – one of our nation’s finest minds and respected leader in development – has been appointed Director General of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG),” the statement said.
The government noted that since the MSG was founded in 1986 by former leaders including Paias Wingti, Walter Lini, Ezekiel Alebua and representatives of the FLNKS, Vanuatu had never held the organisation’s top post.
“This is a historic moment. Since the MSG was founded in 1986 by the giants of Melanesia – Paias Wingti of Papua New Guinea, Father Walter Lini of Vanuatu, Ezekiel Alebua of Solomon Islands, and our brothers from the FLNKS – Vanuatu has waited 40 years to lead this organisation. Today, that wait ends.”
The Prime Minister’s Office said Dr Naupa’s appointment was also significant for women across the region, highlighting the importance of female leadership in regional institutions.
“As a woman taking the helm, Naupa’s appointment sends a clear message to every young ni-Vanuatu girl: aspire for the best, because the highest offices in our region are within your reach. Her leadership will inspire a new generation to dream bigger and serve boldly.”
The government expressed confidence in Dr Naupa’s ability to lead the regional organisation and praised the selection process that led to her appointment.
“The Vanuatu Government holds immense confidence in Dr Naupa’s capabilities, leadership, and integrity. We commend the MSG and the selection team for a transparent process that has delivered the right leader for this moment.”
Prime Minister Napat also extended his congratulations and best wishes to the incoming Director General.
He wishes her strength, wisdom, and every success as she takes up this critical role.
“We know the MSG was born from struggle – its heart has always been the political aspirations of the Kanak people and the big issues facing Melanesia. Over the years the organisation has grown, expanding its focus to trade, sports, culture, and other areas of common interest that bind our nations. Vanuatu believes the success of the MSG under Dr Naupa’s leadership will depend on never losing sight of that founding spirit — solidarity, justice, and self-determination for our peoples.’
Anna, you carry not just a title, but the hopes of a region. You carry Vanuatu’s pride, Melanesia’s trust, and the spirit of Father Walter Lini’s vision. Go well, lead boldly, and make Melanesia shine,” he said.
“Congratulations, Director General Dr Anna Naupa,” said PM Napat.
Meanwhile, Fiji’s Prime Minister and Chair of MSG, Sitiveni Rabuka, has extended his warm congratulations to Dr Anna Naupa of Vanuatu on her appointment as the new Director General of the MSG Secretariat.
Rabuka welcomed the appointment as a significant milestone for both Vanuatu and the wider Melanesian family, noting that Dr Naupa brings a wealth of experience, strong leadership credentials, and a deep understanding of the region’s development priorities.
“As Chair of the MSG, I congratulate Dr Anna Naupa on her appointment and wish her every success as she assumes this important leadership role,” Rabuka said in a statement.
“Her appointment reflects the confidence of MSG members in her ability to guide the Secretariat and advance our shared vision for a stronger and more prosperous Melanesia.”
The Prime Minister acknowledged the historic nature of the appointment, marking the first time a ni-Vanuatu has been selected to lead the MSG Secretariat since the organisation’s establishment in 1986.
“Dr Naupa’s appointment is also an important achievement for women across Melanesia and the Pacific. Her success demonstrates the growing contribution of women in leadership and serves as an inspiration to future generations throughout our region,” he said.
Prime Minister Rabuka reaffirmed the MSG’s enduring commitment to the principles upon which it was founded — solidarity, cooperation, respect, and support for the aspirations of Melanesian peoples.
“Under Dr Naupa’s leadership, we look forward to building on these achievements while remaining true to the values and vision that have guided the MSG for four decades.”
Dr Naupa thanked the MSG and secretariat for her appointment, saying she is ready to serve and fulfill her duties for the benefit of Melanesia…….PACNEWS
SOL- POLICE CHIEF SUSPENDED: SBM ONLINE PACNEWS 18 June 2026
Solomon Islands Governor General suspends Police Commissioner Vaevaso
HONIARA, 18 JUNE 2026 (SBM ONLINE) —-Solomon Islands Governor-General Sir David Tiva Kapu has suspended Police Commissioner Ian Vaevaso from his duties with immediate effect following advice from the Prime Minister and in accordance with Section 129(6) of the Constitution.
In a letter dated 17 June 2026, a copy of which was sighted by SBMOnline, Sir David informed Commissioner Vaevaso that the suspension stems from allegations of misconduct and/or misbehaviour that were allegedly not considered, addressed, disclosed, or reviewed during his appointment process by the previous Prime Minister and the Police and Correctional Service Commission.
To investigate the allegations, the Governor-General has established a tribunal under Section 129(5) of the Constitution to conduct a thorough inquiry into the matter.
Sir David said the suspension is intended to ensure that the investigation is carried out fairly and without interference.
Commissioner Vaevaso will remain suspended until the tribunal completes its work and submits its report and recommendations to the Governor-General.
The letter further states that formal charges will be presented by a lead prosecutor appointed to the tribunal, while Commissioner Vaevaso will be entitled to engage legal counsel to represent him throughout the inquiry process.
Despite the suspension, the Governor-General acknowledged Commissioner Vaevaso’s service to the nation and wished him well during the proceedings.
Speaking exclusively to SBMOnline Wednesday, Vaevaso confirmed receiving the letter from the Governor-General and said he welcomed the process.
“That’s true. I have nothing to hide. I will allow the process to take its course. I would also like to see the allegations. Since I was appointed, people have continued to raise allegations. I appreciate the process, as it will also bring this issue to a close,” Vaevaso told SBMOnline.
No details of the allegations have been made public…. PACNEWS
PAC – DIPLOMACY: ISLANDS BUSINESS PACNEWS 1: Thu 18 Jun 2026
Palau prepares for Pacific summit as climate and security pressures build
SUVA, 18 JUNE 2026 (ISLANDS BUSINESS)—Palau is gearing up to welcome leaders from across the Pacific for this year’s 55th Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders Meeting in Koror from August 30 to September.
Officials say the meeting will be shaped by some of the region’s most pressing challenges, including climate change, transnational crime and economic stability.
Speaking ahead of the summit, Palau Minister of Justice Jennifer Olegeriil said the host government wanted more than a smooth event. Olegeriil said the forum should produce serious political momentum.
“Palau is excited to host the upcoming PIFS leaders’ meeting in Palau,” Olegeriil said, adding that the government is focused on creating “a setting, an environment where the discussions between leaders there are robust.”
She said Palau has already been working through the agenda with the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat to make sure the talks reflect the region’s most urgent concerns.
“Those include the climate crisis, cross-border crime, regional support and wider economic pressures.
“We would have done the legwork to be able to ensure an agenda that will sufficiently address the many different challenges the Pacific, as individual nations as well as the region, are facing,” she said.
Olegeriil said the goal was to foster what she described as “strong Talanoa-type conversations” that allow leaders, development partners and others in the room to confront problems openly and develop common responses.
“That opportunity to have strong Talanoa-type conversations,” she said, would help ensure transnational as well as regional responses are placed on the table.
The minister said Palau’s preparations went beyond logistics. The bigger task, she said, was making sure the summit delivers substantive discussion on shared Pacific priorities.
The forum comes as Pacific governments continue to grapple with a fuel crisis, including invoking the Biketawa Declaration, and as regional preparations intensify for COP31, which is set to be hosted by Australia and Turkey.
For Palau, the meeting is both a diplomatic test and an opportunity to shape regional discussions at a moment when Pacific leaders are under growing pressure to turn unity into action…..PACNEWS
PAC – SECURITY: ISLANDS BUSINESS PACNEWS 1: Thu 18 Jun 2026
Solomon Islands minister says security and development must move together
SUVA, 18 JUNE 2026 (ISLANDS BUSINESS)—The Solomon Islands’ new government sees security and development as closely linked, while pushing for stronger national ownership of security policy and continued regional cooperation.
Minister for National Planning and Development Coordination, Peter Kenilorea Jr, said the country’s approach was shaped by its own experience of unrest and external support, including the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands.
“For us, in the Solomons, it’s an issue to do with development,” he said.
“We see security and development as two sides of the same coin.”
He said the government wants to draw a clearer line between domestic control and regional partnership.
“We have actually gone through security issues ourselves,” Kenilorea said.
“It comes from a practical place whereby we have learned that it’s so important for us to ensure that our security is one that ensures our own sovereign understanding of it.”
At the same time, he said Solomon Islands recognises that instability at home can quickly become a wider regional concern.
“What happened in Solomon Islands ended up being a regional issue for many other countries to come in and join us,” he said.
“We’re really looking to have that conversation deeper even within ourselves in the country, have ownership of our own security space.”
Kenilorea said the government also wants to strengthen collective security across the Pacific.
“We’re looking to see how we can take it to an even higher level where all of us can benefit from a safer Pacific, including through the oceans, the blue continent kind of outlook towards that,” he said….PACNEWS
PAC – ONLINE MISINFORMATION: ISLANDS BUSINESS PACNEWS 1: Thu 18 Jun 2026
Kiribati minister warns online misinformation distorts Pacific youth’s reality
SUVA, 18 JUNE 2026 (ISLANDS BUSINESS) — Kiribati’s top minister for women, youth, sport and social affairs has warned that the Pacific’s digital transformation is reshaping community life at speed.
Ruth Cross-Kwansing said the change brought opportunities and serious risks for young people, elders and public safety.
Speaking at the Pacific Peace and Security Dialogue on the human security dimensions of the Boe Declaration on Regional Security and the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific, Cross-Kwansing said the region must confront the darker side of social media, misinformation and online manipulation if it wants to turn its peace-and-security vision into reality.
For Kwansing, the challenge is immediate and local. Kiribati, she said, was spread across 21 inhabited islands and 3.5 million square kilometres of ocean, making digital networks both essential and destabilising.
“What connects us, apart from our culture and the long, wonderful history that we have, is the social connections that we are able to form. But those same connections now move through platforms that can spread information faster than governments can respond,” she said.
“The information that can spread across social media is faster than any government vehicle or any government official that can work to respond.
“The threat and the solution are sitting in pretty much the same device.”
The minister argued that this paradox is hitting young people hardest. In her telling, social media algorithms are shaping how Pacific youth see themselves and the world, often amplifying harmful narratives and normalising damaging behaviour.
“Our young people are at a time of great influence in their lives,” she said, and what they consume online can shape their “thoughts and their narratives and their worldview.”
When those messages are toxic, she warned, the effects are not abstract.
“It is contributing to the mental health challenges and to harmful narratives about what they’re positioned and what their opportunities in the world are.”
The result, in her view, is a distorted sense of reality that can take a generation “down a real dark hole of perception.”
Cross-Kwansing also drew a direct line between online behaviour and the region’s struggle with gender-based violence.
The difference between a harmful exchange in a village and one amplified online, she said, is that digital spaces can validate and multiply abusive ideas.
“There’s a difference between having a conversation in your house or in your village, as opposed to a conversation that’s taking place online.
The risks, she added, are not limited to the young. Older people and professionals are also vulnerable to scams and misinformation.
“Our elders are also quite vulnerable,” she said, pointing to fake investment schemes and other online deceptions that can drain savings and undermine trust.
Her remarks pushed the session away from generic celebration of technology and toward a harder assessment of what digital life is doing to Pacific societies.
She acknowledged that online tools can help communities respond to crises and share information quickly. But she said the region is now facing “so many dangers” alongside those benefits, and leaders have a duty to respond.
“That’s our job as leaders. To be able to identify and then develop solutions for those problems.”
The region, she suggested, can no longer afford to treat social media, misinformation and online abuse as side issues.
“They are now central to the safety of young people, the dignity of communities and the resilience of the Pacific itself,.” She said……PACNEWS
FIJI – ELECTION/POLITICS: FIJI SUN PACNEWS 1: Thu 18 Jun 2026
Election delay would need parliamentary approval: Fiji PM
SUVA, 18 JUNE 2026 (FIJI SUN) —Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says any decision to delay the next general election beyond the constitutional deadline would require parliamentary approval.
Speaking to reporters Wednesday, Rabuka confirmed that Government was still weighing whether to hold elections as scheduled under the 2013 Constitution, which sets the deadline at 06 February 2027.
“If we’re going to change that, we will need parliamentary approval,” Rabuka said.
He said the Constitutional Review Commission’s work and the electoral reform process were all part of the Government’s planning.
“All of that, all part of our planning, all part of our appreciation of time and things that need to be completed in that time when we will have to finalise the decision on whether to have or not to have the election according to the Constitution.”
He also confirmed the People’s Alliance annual general; meeting (AGM) was expected in August, describing it as “the last lap towards the election”, with campaign preparations already under way.
Electoral Commission chairperson Justice Usaia Ratuvili said last week the commission was ready to conduct both the election and a referendum….PACNEWS
FIJI – MARITIME SECURITY: FIJI SUN PACNEWS 1: Thu 18 Jun 2026
U.S, Fiji launch joint sea patrols to target illegal fishing and drug trafficking
SUVA, 18 JUNE 2026 (FIJI SUN)—Fiji and the United States are stepping up maritime enforcement with joint patrols targeting illegal fishing, drug trafficking and other transnational crimes across Fiji’s vast ocean territory.
The operation, led by the U.S Coast Guard Cutter Harriet Lane, will see Fijian security personnel embark on the vessel later this week under the longstanding shiprider agreement between the two countries.
Five representatives from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces Naval Division, Fiji Maritime Surveillance and Rescue Coordination Centre, Fiji Police Force and Fisheries Department will take part in the bilateral patrol.
Commanding Officer Commander Justin Matejka said the patrol would be conducted under Fiji’s authority, with Fijian officers directing enforcement activities within the country’s sovereign waters.
“It will allow Fijian officers to direct enforcement activities within Fiji’s sovereign waters while the U.S Coast Guard provides operational support and maritime capabilities,” Commander Matejka said.
He said the mission reflected the shared commitment of both countries to protecting the Pacific region.
“Our visit is driven by a shared commitment in safeguarding the Blue Pacific.
“We are immensely proud to be hosting five Fijian shipriders on board as we conduct a bilateral patrol to deter illegal fishing activities, narcotics trafficking and other illicit activities that may be occurring within Fijian sovereign waters.”
The patrol comes as Fiji intensifies efforts to combat transnational organised crime, particularly drug trafficking, which has emerged as a major security concern across the region.
U.S Embassy public affairs officer Strader Payton said the visit highlighted growing cooperation between Fiji and the United States in maritime security, capacity building and regional stability.
Suva-based U.S military officer Commander Nick Baladad said the partnership extended well beyond ship visits and had been active since the bilateral operations agreement was established in 2018.
“We have continuing activities year-round to support everything from maritime domain awareness, capacity building, joint targeting, as well as conducting operations and building capability,” Commander Baladad said.
The Fijian shipriders will provide local expertise, operational knowledge and enforcement authority while working alongside the Harriet Lane crew.
The joint patrol will focus on detecting and responding to evolving threats across Fiji’s maritime zone.
Commander Matejka said the Coast Guard’s contribution included enhancing maritime awareness and helping authorities identify suspicious activity across vast stretches of ocean.
“The distances out here are vast,” he said.
“It’s hard to just go out and look for a single boat or single activity.
“What we bring is the ability to help connect a lot of the dots in terms of awareness and building the capability of knowing what’s out there so that you can make more informed decisions.”
Beyond security operations, the crew of the Harriet Lane will participate in community outreach activities during their visit, including school visits, flag football coaching sessions and public tours of the vessel.
The cutter is scheduled to depart Suva in four days to begin the joint patrol with its Fijian counterparts….PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
PAC – FUEL CRISIS: ISLANDS BUSINESS PACNEWS BIZ: Thu 18 Jun 2026
Fuel crisis exposes Pacific economic vulnerability, leaders say
SUVA, 18 JUNE 2026 (ISLANDS BUSINESS)—Pacific leaders have warned that the region’s fuel crisis is no longer just a supply problem, but a threat to economic security, as rising prices, inflation and the cost of living ripple through island economies.
At the 2026 Pacific Peace and Security Dialogue hosted in Suva, Fiji, ministers from the Cook Islands, Papua New Guinea, Nauru and Tuvalu said the shock has underscored the need for regional cooperation, stronger supply chains and a faster shift toward more resilient economies.
Papua New Guinea Finance Minister Thomas Opa said remote islands are feeling the pressure most acutely, with higher fuel costs hitting transport, business and jobs.
“The increase in fuel prices has really affected not only the people on the mainland that will now buy more fuel at the bowser, it also affects business, and if the business is not growing, they cannot make profit, they cannot employ people – so it has broader implications on the wellbeing of people. This is a concern that affects Papua New Guinea.”
Opa said PNG has introduced a fuel subsidy but called it unsustainable in the long term.
“The government is exploring smaller refineries to strengthen domestic supply and support other Pacific states.”
Tuvalu’s Minister for Transport, Energy, Communication and Innovation, Simon Kofe, said the crisis is a warning that energy transition is now a security issue.
“We do a lot of advocacy on the international stage, but what are we doing on the local level to achieve that transition? It’s no longer just an environmental issue; it’s now become a security issue for us.”
Cook Islands Foreign Affairs Minister Tingika Elikana said resilience in the Pacific depends on economic stability rather than military power.
Nauru Minister for Women and Social Development Affairs, Charmaine Scotty, said regional cooperation can cut costs and create opportunities.
She argued that “the Pacific’s greatest resource is not beneath our oceans or on our lands. It is our people.”….PACNEWS
FIJI – ECONOMY: FIJI SUN PACNEWS BIZ: Thu 18 Jun 2026
State of economy dialogue prompts National Budget rethink, says Fiji PM
SUVA, 18 JUNE 2026 (FIJI SUN) —Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka said that last week’s State of the Fijian Economy Dialogue has given the Government opportunity to revise next week’s 2026-2027 National Budget, despite previously labelling the event a “one-sided discussion”.
“It’s given us a good opportunity to revise what we had in mind and also take on board some of the concerns raised to plan better,” Rabuka said.
“So that when it’s presented, the people know why and where they will be going for this.”
He said budget details remained classified until its announcement next week, on 26 June6.
Last week’s two-day dialogue, organised by Dialogue Fiji, brought together Reserve Bank of Fiji, International Monetary Fund, World Bank, Asian Development Bank, private sector, civil society and opposition representatives to examine Fiji’s macroeconomic framework and fiscal sustainability ahead of the 2026-2027 National Budget.
Rabuka had earlier described the event as a “one-sided discussion”, while Minister for Public Works Ro Filipe Tuisawau called it an “anti-government monologue”…..PACNEWS
FIJI – TUNA INDUSTRY: FIJI GOVT PACNEWS BIZ: Thu 18 Jun 2026
Fiji reinforces regional leadership in sustainable Tuna fisheries management
SUVA, 18 JUNE 2026 (FIJI GOVT)—Fiji’s Cabinet has endorsed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between members of the South Pacific Group (SPG) under the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency, strengthening regional cooperation in the sustainable management of South Pacific albacore tuna.
The agreement will bring together Cook Islands, Fiji, Niue, Samoa and Tonga to advance shared interests in tuna fisheries management, strengthen regional advocacy, and promote the sustainable use of ocean resources.
The MOU will also enable Pacific countries to work more closely during important regional and international fisheries negotiations, including at the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission.
South Pacific albacore tuna remains a valuable resource for Fiji and the wider Pacific, supporting jobs, economic growth and national development aspirations.
Through stronger regional cooperation and science-based fisheries management, Pacific Island countries will be better positioned to protect their interests and ensure that future generations continue to benefit from the region’s rich ocean resources…..PACNEWS
FSM – FISHERIES: ISLANDS BUSINESS PACNEWS BIZ: Thu 18 Jun 2026
Dead fish, discoloured sea spark fear in Yap
YAP, 18 JUNE 2026 (ISLANDS BUSINESS)—Government officials on Yap are scrambling to identify the cause of dead fish and discoloured sea water, which threaten the atoll’s food security.
Governor Francis Itimai has ordered an immediate investigation after reports from Lamotrek and other atolls that dead fish had been found floating in the lagoons.
Lamotrek is an atoll in Yap State of the Federated States of Micronesia. It is roughly one square kilometre in area with a population of just under 400 people.
There were corresponding reports of sea water turning a reddish-brown colour. There are no indications at this time of the cause of the deaths or discolouration.
However, residents have been warned not to eat the fish and report all changes in sea colour to the local authorities.
Photographs and videos of the dead fish and discoloured water have been circulated on social media, causing widespread alarm in Yap.
The atoll is about 450km south-east of Guam…..PACNEWS
FIJI – TRADE/INVESTMENT: FIJI GOVT PACNEWS BIZ: Thu 18 Jun 2026
Fiji and NZ business leaders strengthen trade and investment ties
SUVA, 18 JUNE 2026 (FIJI GOVT)–Fiji’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade hosted a networking event in Suva this week for the 2026 New Zealand–Fiji Business Council (NZFBC) Mission to Fiji, bringing together New Zealand business leaders, Government officials and private sector representatives to strengthen trade and investment relations between the two countries.
Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Sakiasi Ditoka, reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to deepening its long-standing partnership with New Zealand and highlighted Government reforms aimed at improving the investment environment.
He said Fiji remains an attractive destination for investment in renewable energy, agribusiness, ICT, tourism, the blue economy, health and education.
Minister Ditoka encouraged both delegations to turn opportunities into concrete investments, joint ventures and commercial partnerships that create jobs and deliver benefits for both countries.
President of the NZFBC, Mr. Chandar Sen, welcomed the opportunities created through the mission and acknowledged the continued support of the Fiji Government in fostering a business-friendly environment and strengthening commercial links between the two countries.
New Zealand remains one of Fiji’s key trading partners and one of the country’s largest visitor markets, underpinned by strong economic, cultural and people-to-people ties.
The 2026 Business Mission includes site visits, business meetings and engagements with Government representatives and industry stakeholders aimed at identifying new areas of cooperation and expanding mutually beneficial trade and investment opportunities…..PACNEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Civil Society Engagement: Financing National Priorities in a Changing World
APIA, 18 JUNE 2026 (UNDP)—The Samoa Umbrella for Non-Governmental Organisations (SUNGO), with support from the Pacific Islands Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (PIANGO) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), hosted a capacity building workshop on public financial management (PFM) for local civil society organisations (CSOs).
On 12 June 2026 in Apia with the theme, “Financing National Priorities in a Changing World,” the event brought together civil society organisations and other relevant stakeholders to strengthen engagement in Samoa’s PFM processes. The initiative was made possible through the Vaka Pasifika Project funded by the European Union.
The dialogue provided a platform for CSOs and development partners. The participants explored ways to better engage with national budgeting processes and examined the role of civil society in Samoa’s PFM systems.
“This is precisely where civil society steps in, bridging the gap between state policy and the people. To bring a people-centred approach to PFM, we need to work together,” said Emeline Ilolahia, Executive Director of PIANGO.
Led by SUNGO with technical support from PIANGO and UNDP, the platform equipped CSOs with practical knowledge of Samoa’s budget cycle, fiscal frameworks, and key financial documents. It also created a space for CSOs and development partners to explore how their work can better align with and support national policy and budget processes.
UNDP Resident Representative, Aliona Niculita, also emphasised the importance of inclusive engagement in shaping national development priorities: “The national budget is the most powerful expression of a country’s priorities and commitments to its people. Ensuring that citizens can understand and meaningfully engage in this process is essential to achieving inclusive and sustainable development.”
Participants explored key fiscal concepts including revenue, expenditure, and public debt as well as budget cycle and tools for budget analysis and advocacy, and reviewed collectively the Budget Address 2026/27 titled, “AIGA-Accelerating Inclusive Growth and Access.”
The dialogue aimed to move beyond awareness towards concrete and sustained participation. Through talanoa sessions, breakout groups, and group presentations, participants explored upcoming shifts in public finance and the people-centred oversight role of civil society. Participants identified national priorities and trade-offs reflected in the budget, developed key messages and advocacy priorities, and identified practical steps for sustained civil society engagement with national government budget and planning processes.
As the Vaka Pasifika Project enters its final phase, SUNGO and its partners highlighted the importance of ensuring that the knowledge, relationships, and tools developed through this event translate into sustained impact beyond the project’s conclusion.
Effective public financial management is a shared responsibility. It depends on strong institutions, informed citizens, and continued dialogue. This platform is an important step toward building that shared commitment in Samoa….PACNEWS
For media queries, please contact: Laufālē’ainā Lesā, Communications Analyst, UNDP Multi Country Office, Samoa | Tel. +685 23670 | E: laufaleaina.lesa@undp.org
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
SPREP and Pacific Disability Forum to empower women with disabilities
SUVA/APIA, 18 JUNE 2026 (SPREP)—Women with disabilities in Fiji, Kiribati and Tonga will receive new livelihood opportunities while helping reduce plastic pollution through a partnership between the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) and the Pacific Disability Forum (PDF).
Funded by the Australian Government, SPREP’s Pacific Ocean Litter Project (POLP) will support PDF to pilot an initiative that trains women with disabilities to manufacture and distribute reusable menstrual pads, and related hygiene products in the three Pacific Island countries.
The initiative aims to provide sustainable alternatives to disposable menstrual products, many of which contain plastic materials that contribute to growing waste and pollution challenges across the Pacific.
Through the project, women from Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) will receive training, equipment and materials to produce reusable menstrual pad kits, including carry bags, underwear, wash cloths, soap and waterproof storage bags.
The products will then be distributed to women and girls with disabilities, accompanied by practical training on their use, care and maintenance.
“One of the disadvantages faced by women with disabilities in Pacific Island societies has been limited access to education and employment opportunities, although this is gradually improving across the region,” said Sisi Coalala, Manager of PDF’s Inclusive Development Unit.
“Through economic empowerment and livelihood initiatives such as this, women with disabilities can earn an income, support their families and improve their quality of life while contributing positively to their communities.”
PDF’s Social Inclusion Coordinator, Sainimili Tawake, said the initiative also has the potential to create longer-term market opportunities for women-led disability organisations.
“One of our goals is to engage with partners such as UNFPA and other organisations that procure dignity kits for persons with disabilities across the Pacific. If these products can be sourced from women with disabilities in Fiji, Tonga and Kiribati, it would create sustainable livelihood opportunities that extend well beyond the life of this project.”
POLP Project Manager, Andrea Volentras, said the initiative demonstrates how environmental action can deliver social and economic benefits for communities.
“This partnership brings together two important goals of our project – reducing plastic pollution and empowering women with disabilities through skills development, income-generating opportunities and access to sustainable menstrual hygiene products.”
The project supports POLP’s objective of reducing single-use plastics and encouraging the production and uptake of locally made, sustainable alternatives throughout the Pacific region.
“Women and girls with disabilities often face barriers in accessing menstrual hygiene products and information. This initiative not only addresses those challenges but also creates opportunities for women with disabilities to develop skills, earn an income and contribute to environmental sustainability in their communities,” Volentras said.
As part of the initiative, PDF and participating OPDs will work with local partners, clothing manufacturers and accommodation providers to source donated materials and fabric offcuts for production.
Women from disability organisations in Fiji who already have received prior training will also support peer-to-peer training activities in Fiji, Kiribati and Tonga.
The pilot project will run until January 2027 and is expected to contribute to POLP’s long-term vision of cleaner coastal environments across Pacific Island countries by reducing the amount of single-use plastic waste entering the environment.
The Pacific Ocean Litter Project (POLP) is funded by the Government of Australia and implemented by SPREP….PACNEWS
