In this bulletin:
1. PACIFIC — IMF flags ‘very concerned’ outlook for Pacific as fuel prices rise
2. MARSH — Marshall Islands government shuts down at 3pm amid fuel crisis
3. FIJI — Service, unity and faithfulness defined Ratu Epeli’s life: Archbishop Chong
4. FIJI — A Bill to hold referendum: Fiji Acting AG Turaga
5. PACIFIC — Pacific Church Leaders’ Meeting plenary asks: what foundations must we revisit?
6. FIJI — Fiji intercepts 5kg meth at Nadi Airport
7. PACIFIC — WCC general secretary meets Tuvalu Climate Change minister
8. FIJI — FBC’s Manager News graduates with Masters
9. PACNEWS BIZ — IMF warns energy shock to hit Asia- Pacific
10. PACNEWS BIZ — PNG’s Economic Growth to ease to 3.6 percent in 2026 and 3.4 percent in 2027—ADB
11. PACNEWS BIZ — U.S and FFA strengthen partnership on regional fisheries
12. PACNEWS BIZ — New food alert platform helps humanitarians combat hunger
13. PACNEWS DIGEST — UN peacekeeping missions under strain as funding cuts and new threats grow
PAC – IRAN CRISIS/FUEL PRICE: PACNEWS PACNEWS 3: Fri 17 Apr 2026
IMF flags ‘very concerned’ outlook for Pacific as fuel prices rise
By Pita Ligaiula
WASHINGTON, 17 APRIL 2026 (PACNEWS)—The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has raised alarm over the impact of Middle East tensions on Pacific Island economies, warning that rising fuel costs will worsen living pressures in countries already struggling with high import dependence.
IMF Asia and Pacific Director, Krishna Srinivasan told PACNEWS the region faces serious risks, particularly small island states with limited economic buffers.
“So we are very concerned about the small states in the Pacific Islands because these countries’ cost of living has been an issue even before the shock. They’re highly dependent on imports of oil, gas, and so on, so forth. But it’s diesel, kerosene, and so on. So we are very concerned.”
Srinivasan said the geographic isolation of Pacific countries makes the situation worse, with delays in global supply chains adding pressure.
“And also, what’s important to note is that even if things become more novel in terms of disruptions come down by the time the ships go from the Middle East to the Pacific Islands, it’s a long time,” he said.
He warned that limited fiscal and economic buffers leave countries exposed.
“So we are very concerned about these countries, and they have more limited buffers. So that’s something which we need to take into account,” he emphasised.
Srinivasan said the IMF stands ready to support Pacific countries through both policy advice and financing.
“And, you know, we are here to provide any kind of support that they need, whether it’s policy support or financial assistance, and so on,” he said.
IMF deputy director, Thomas Helbling said while the Pacific faces similar pressures to the wider region, its size and remoteness increase vulnerability.
“I think on the Pacific Island countries, the concerns are broadly similar to that of the region. There’s a specific element. Of course, they’re smaller, they’re further away.”
Helbling said governments need to act early to manage supply risks.
“So, besides our general recommendation of using buffers wisely, we would also encourage the countries to be proactive and think of supply chains, procuring oils and other essential supplies on a more forward-looking basis, working with partner countries,” he said.
He said policy flexibility remains important, depending on each country’s situation.
“And also then, depending on the situation in individual countries, use the policy buffers they have within their overall framework.”
The IMF comments come as global oil markets remain volatile, raising concerns about inflation, transport costs and economic stability across the Pacific, where many countries rely heavily on imported fuel for power generation, shipping and daily life.
With supply chains stretched and costs rising, the Fund said Pacific governments face immediate pressure and must act quickly, while relying on targeted support and international partnerships to manage the shock….PACNEWS
MARSH – IRAN CRISIS/FUEL PRICE: MARSHALL ISLANDS JOURNAL/RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS 3: Fri 17 Apr 2026
Marshall Islands government shuts down at 3pm amid fuel crisis
MAJURO, 17 APRIL 2026 (MARSHALL ISLANDS JOURNAL/RNZ PACIFIC)—Most government offices in the Marshall Islands began enforcing a new policy this week of closing by 3pm daily as a way to conserve fuel given uncertainties of fuel supply globally.
The move is to save energy and reduce the strain on the Marshalls Energy Company’s diesel fuel resources with both fuel shortages and skyrocketing prices seen on world markets due to the US and Israel’s attacks on Iran and its retaliation by closing the Strait of Hormuz to global shipping.
The 3pm daily closure directive for all non-essential government services was issued by the government’s Cabinet on 10 April as an Emergency Electricity Savings Policy.
Aside from the government office closure to reduce energy use, the emergency directive is expected to help the private sector through the mandate of government contracts for air conditioning maintenance and repair.
Government offices are expected to remain open during the lunch hour, allowing workers to operate seven hours daily instead of the usual eight.
A key provision about the shutdown of government offices by 3pm daily is that they are required to shut off air conditioners, lights and any other equipment drawing power. The aim is to reduce energy use by 30 percent over the 90 days of the emergency decree.
The 90-day emergency order mandates the Marshalls Energy Company, the government’s power utility company, to provide detailed monthly electricity bills to every government ministry, state-owned enterprise, and subsidised agency that detail each government offices power consumption compared to the 30-day period immediately prior to the emergency declaration.
“Compliance with the 90-Day Emergency Electricity Savings Policy is mandatory,” the declaration said.
“The National Energy Authority will monitor the monthly MEC baseline reports to verify progress toward the 30 percent reduction goal.”
Various exemptions are made to the requirement of shutting down by 3pm daily. All essential services are exempted from the closure order, including public schools, the College of the Marshall Islands and Majuro and Ebeye hospitals.
Secretary of Health Francyne Wase-Jacklick said the ministry is specifically exempted so there will not be disruptions.
“So essential services remain ongoing,” she said. “Outpatient, maternal child health, immunization, public health programs, and rehab services will continue as usual, with only internal adjustments to reduce energy use where possible.”
As a consequence of the 3pm daily closure of all non-essential government/agency/state owned enterprise offices, government workers will be working only 30 hours each week. They will, however, continue to be paid for a full week of work.
The 90-day Emergency Electricity Savings Policy will accomplish two things, Finance Minister David Paul said this week
It is “an opportunity to cut down on energy usage” (while it) allows people to maintain their purchasing power,” he said.
Paul said the situation with skyrocketing fuel costs has caused “an affordability crisis – so it will be counterproductive if we are trying to address a problem while creating another one.”
This is why workers will still get their full paychecks, he said.
The new 90-day Emergency Electricity Savings Policy is likely to have a positive impact on the private sector.
The new policy directs the Ministry of Public Works, Infrastructure, and Utilities to implement an “immediate transition” to contracting out air conditioning cleaning and repair services to the private sector.
“Air conditioning constitutes the largest draw on the public power grid,” said the new government emergency policy. Performance and quality of air conditioners, therefore, has a big impact on their cost of power to operate.
Public Works “currently lacks the capacity to service all government units,” the policy said.
To resolve this, the ministry is directed to coordinate with the Ministry of Finance to immediately transition maintenance responsibilities and facilitate the contracting of air conditioning cleaning and repair services to the private sector.
Further, the policy directs that “every government ministry, state-owned enterprise, and subsidised agency must allocate funds from their current budgets to hire private contractors for air conditioning repairs, maintenance, and cleaning.
While agencies are directed to transition maintenance to the private sector, they are also encouraged to explore all available avenues – including internal staffing or collaborative partnership with other agencies – to ensure units are serviced.”
A part of the emergency order requires that within the 90-day period of the order, “every agency must compile a complete inventory of their air conditioning units.”
They must also secure a maintenance contract and schedule to ensure filters are cleaned every two-to-four weeks. While physical cleaning of all units may extend beyond this 90-day window, the finalized contracts and schedules must be in place.”….PACNEWS
FIJI – STATE FUNERAL: FBC NEWS/MAI TV/FIJI GOVT PACNEWS 3: Fri 17 Apr 2026
Service, unity and faithfulness defined Ratu Epeli’s life: Archbishop Chong
SUVA, 17 APRIL 2026 (FBC NEWS/ MAI TV/FIJI GOVT) —The life of the late former Fiji President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau was defined by service to the people and a rare ability to bring Fijians together.
This was shared by the Archbishop Peter Loy Chong during the State Funeral Service at Albert Park today.
Speaking in a solemn tribute, the Archbishop reflected on Ratu Epeli’s enduring impact, saying his life consistently touched people across all walks of life and encouraged unity beyond differences.
He said the former President had a unique gift of connection, one that allowed him to relate naturally, humanely and with deep respect to others.
Archbishop Chong highlighted that Ratu Epeli never placed himself above ordinary citizens, but instead moved among them with ease whether in public spaces, markets, gyms or within communities on the margins of society.
That approach, he said revealed a leadership style grounded in humility and presence rather than position.
He further reflected on the importance of faithfulness, describing it as one of life’s greatest values.
He said true faithfulness requires sacrifice, a willingness to set aside self-interest, and a commitment to love, truth and service, qualities he said were evident in the late former President’s public life.
The Archbishop says Ratu Epeli’s legacy serves as a reminder that real leadership is measured not by titles, but by the ability to unite people and serve with integrity.
Meanwhile, Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka pays tribute to the late former President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, honouring him as a soldier, statesman, diplomat, mentor, husband and national servant.
Rabuka highlighted his distinguished military career (commissioning in the 1970s, training in New Zealand and Australia, peacekeeping service in Lebanon, leadership of the Royal Brunei Infantry Regiment, promotions to senior ranks and retirement in the late 1980s).
He highlighted the Taukei Naisogolaca’s calm demeanor in crisis, quiet but principled command that inspired loyalty and discipline, and a commitment to humility, integrity and national unity.
“He understood that true command is not exercised through authority alone, but through leadership of others.”
“He had a genuine care for people. His life was one of service.”
The PM also praised his approachability, walking among citizens, listening to their concerns, and prioritising service over status.
“He met people where they were. He heard their pain and aspirations. He was approachable, present and deeply human.”
With only hours remaining before the late former President, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, is laid to rest on Bau Island, people from all walks of life have been arriving in large numbers since this morning to pay their respects.
Among those present was Ratu Tevita Uluilakeba Mara, the Tui Nayau, Tui Lau, na Sau ni Vanua ko Lau, the brother-in-law of the late Ratu Epeli who was accorded the traditional qaloqalovi upon his arrival. Ministers and members of diplomatic corps are also on the chiefly island of Bau.
Across the island, preparations continued as women completed decorations and garlands ahead of the ceremony, reflecting the deep cultural significance of the occasion.
The late former President will be laid to rest at the Sautabu today, marking a solemn farewell to a leader remembered for his lifelong service to the nation…PACNEWS
FIJI – REFERENDUM BILL: FIJI LIVE PACNEWS 3: Fri 17 Apr 2026
A Bill to hold referendum: Fiji Acting AG Turaga
SUVA, 17 APRIL 2206 (FIJI LIVE)—Acting Attorney-General Siromi Turaga says Fiji just needs a Referendum Bill passed by Parliament to hold a Referendum in the country.
Speaking to FijiLive, Turaga said Parliament is not going to table a review of the Constitution in every sitting, only this once, to review the Constitution.
The Acting Attorney-General was responding to calls from the Electoral Commission Chairperson, Justice Ratuvili, who said that there were serious shortcomings in the Bill and that it had not been tailored to Fiji’s context, including the Constitutional mandates of the Commission.
Justice Ratuvili also said that it would be impossible for the Electoral Commission to conduct a referendum for the amendment of the Constitution in accordance with section 160 of the Constitution.
“It is strongly recommended that the Government start afresh on designing a suitable piece of legislation that will enable the Commission to fulfill its constitutional duties.”
The Acting AG said a lot of people have expressed mixed views on the Referendum Bill.
“To me, the Referendum Bill was basically a mechanism after the Bill was tabled in Parliament – to have the vote taken through a Referendum – There is no perfect law – We have promised from the beginning we will listen, and we have heard those views.
Turaga said there are ongoing discussions with the Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Law, Justice and Human Rights, and those suggestions from Political Parties, the Electoral Commission, the Fijian Elections Office, and other stakeholders, which are now being consolidated to reflect what would be in the Referendum Bill.
He confirmed that it will be tabled in the April Sitting of Parliament by the Standing Committee on Law, Justice, and Human Rights.
Meanwhile, Parliament is scheduled to sit from 27 April to 01 May….PACNEWS
PAC – CHURCH: WCC PACNEWS 3: Fri 17 Apr 2026
Pacific Church Leaders’ Meeting plenary asks: what foundations must we revisit?
SUVA, 17 APRIL 2026 (WCC)—The 2026 edition of the Pacific Church Leaders’ Meeting, in a plenary session, revisited the foundations of Pacific ecumenism, exploring many years of ecumenical history, then exploring how the future is grounded in stories and theology.
Reverend James Bhagwan, general secretary of the Pacific Conference of Churches, presented resources that guided those gathered in tracing the history of ecumenical life in the Pacific, calling particular attention to times when fresh forms of cooperation and an integrated agenda surfaced.
Bhagwan noted that, by 2025, Pacific churches collectively sharpened their focus, and discernment spoke more directly about liberation, safety, hospitality, dignity, and the emerging wounds—including disability exclusion, lack of access in church buildings and evacuation plans, youth vulnerability, and a regional drugs crisis—entering Pacific life.
At that time, young people became not only the future of the church but its present.
“We must revisit the church as mediator and intercessor,” reflected the plenary. “We must revisit a whole-of-life theology in which land, ocean, body, gender, disability, health, youth, and justice all belong within the church’s concern.”
The plenary also spoke of revisiting self-determination as a God-given right.
“The foundations we must revisit, then, are not only ancient. They are living foundations that call us to voyage faithfully in the troubled waters of the present.”
Bhagwan reflected that the mapping of the last 20 years of the Pacific Conference of Churches, particularly the Pacific Church Leaders’ Meeting, was meant to give current church leader a clear understanding of where they have come, the issues that continue to raise themselves, or the issues that continue to be of importance for the region, and the emerging issues.
“But also, to help them understand the transition that we have gone through from seeing ourselves from a more institutional framework to a more relational framework, what that means, and how we have grown as the household of God,” he said.
“And as we gather with church leaders this year, recognizing both the strengths of the household and also what are the key stress factors and the cracks we see in the household. Because the household is not just church leaders. It’s not just the church institutions. It’s the people, the land, and the sea.” ….PACNEWS
FIJI – DRUGS FIGHT: FIJI TIMES PACNEWS 3: Fri 17 Apr 2026
Fiji intercepts 5kg meth at Nadi Airport
NADI, 17 APRIL 2026 (FIJI TIMES) —The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) has intercepted approximately five kilograms of methamphetamine at Nadi International Airport, in what authorities describe as a major blow to transnational drug trafficking.
The seizure was made through coordinated risk profiling and intelligence-led targeting, with officers uncovering the illicit drugs concealed within passenger baggage despite what was described as a sophisticated concealment method.
The suspect and the seized substances have been handed over to the Fiji Police Force, including the Criminal Investigations Department and forensic teams, for further investigation.
FRCS Chief Executive Officer Udit Singh said the interception underscores the agency’s frontline role in protecting Fiji.
“This detection is a clear demonstration of FRCS’s operational readiness, capability, and commitment to protecting Fiji and the wider Pacific region from the devastating impacts of illicit drugs,” he said.
Singh added that strong internal coordination and partnerships with border agencies remain critical in safeguarding Fiji’s borders while facilitating legitimate trade and travel.
Authorities are urging members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities as efforts continue to combat illicit drug trafficking….PACNEWS
PAC – CHURCH/DIPLOMACY: WCC PACNEWS 3: Fri 17 Apr 2026
WCC general secretary meets Tuvalu Climate Change minister
SUVA, 17 APRIL 2026 (WCC)—On the first day of his visit to the Pacific, World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Reverend Professor Dr Jerry Pillay held a bilateral meeting in Suva, Fiji, with Dr Maina Talia, Tuvalu’s Minister for Home Affairs, Climate Change, and Environment.
Pillay and Talia focused their discussion on the impacts of climate change in the Pacific – especially in Tuvalu, a country that has experienced the effects of the climate emergency more acutely than many others around the world.
The meeting held on 11 April was convened by Revered James Bhagwan, general secretary of the Pacific Conference of Churches (PCC).
“It is inspiring to learn how faith communities are making a difference—contributing and partnering with governments to address climate challenges,” said Pillay.
“This is a powerful example of how crises bring people with diverse expertise and backgrounds together to find solutions for reclaiming and protecting the environment. We all need one another to safeguard and preserve God’s earth. I look forward to my time here in Fiji to express the WCC’s solidarity and support, and to learn, reflect, and share experiences,” he added.
Pillay is in Fiji to join church leaders from across the region from 13–17 April for the Pacific Church Leaders’ Meeting, a significant regional gathering organised by the PCC.
A trained theologian, Talia previously worked with the Christian Church of Tuvalu, a WCC member church, as a climate change officer from 2011 to June 2017.
During the meeting, he emphasised the importance of collaboration between political and religious sectors in addressing climate challenges.
“Here in the Pacific—and I speak particularly for Tuvalu—the partnership between church and state is vital, especially for small countries like mine. Our joint efforts in education across our islands, as well as in climate action, are essential,” said Talia.
Tuvalu is a remote South Pacific nation and the world’s second-smallest country by population, with approximately 11,000 inhabitants. Located between Australia and Hawaii, it consists of nine low-lying atolls and faces a grave threat from rising sea levels….PACNEWS
FIJI – GRADUATION: FBC NEWS PACNEWS 3: Fri 17 Apr 2026
FBC’s Manager News graduates with Masters
SUVA, 17 APRIL 2026 (FBC NEWS)—Juggling taking care of her family, running a newsroom and keeping up with assignments were some of the biggest challenges Ritika Pratap faced over the past few years.
And today, when she walked up the stage to receive her Masters in International Relations and Diplomacy at the University of Fiji graduation ceremony, she says it was worth all the effort.
The Fijian Broadcasting Corporation’s Manager of News is the most experienced member of the newsroom and has ably led the team through some of its most challenging times.
General Manager News, Current Affairs & Sports, Felix Chaudhary, says Pratap’s achievement is a testament to her strength and courage despite the many challenges she faced.
“FBC has some of Fiji’s best multimedia journalists and leaders – and Ritika is up there amongst them. We are very proud of her outstanding achievement and celebrate this with her.”
FBC News this week celebrated the graduation of three of its team members – Ritika Pratap, Nadi-based multimedia journalist Riya Bhagwan and Suva-based intern, Mollyn Nakabea….PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
PAC – IRAN CRISIS/FUEL PRICE: PACNEWS PACNEWS BIZ: Fri 17 Apr 2026
IMF warns energy shock to hit Asia- Pacific
By Pita Ligaiula
WASHINGTON DC, 17 APRIL 2026 (PACNEWS)—The International Monetary Fund (IMF) says rising oil and gas prices linked to the Middle East conflict are set to weaken growth, raise inflation and strain economies across Asia and the Pacific, with small island states among the most exposed.
Speaking at a press conference during the Spring Meetings, IMF Asia and Pacific Director Krishna Srinivasan said the region entered 2026 strong but now faces mounting pressure from an energy shock.
“Asia entered 2026 on a solid footing with growth remaining resilient despite the region bearing the brunt of U.S tariffs and heightened uncertainty. However, given the region’s high fossil fuel intensity and reliance on the conflict areas for key commodities, the new energy shock will have a negative impact on the region. The shock is raising inflation, weakening external balances, tightening financial conditions, and narrowing policy space.”
He said growth held up through late 2025, driven by exports and consumption.
“If you look at the chart here, growth across most Asian economies turned out stronger than expected in late 2025. This is in large part thanks to exports and consumption, which held up better than anticipated, supported by accommodative policies and financial conditions.”
Srinivasan said strong demand for technology goods helped offset weaker trade with the United States.
“With regard to exports, much of the recent strength has been driven by robust demand for tech goods… Asia’s exports to the U.S declined, but that to the rest of the world increased.”
But he warned the situation has shifted with rising energy prices.
“In the context of the war in the Middle East, all oil and gas prices have risen sharply, and there’s considerable uncertainty about how persistent the shock will be.”
He said the region is highly exposed due to heavy energy use and import dependence.
“The use of oil and gas amounts to about 4 percent of GDP for the region as a whole… this is nearly double Europe’s share.”
“Altogether, net oil and gas imports amount to about 2.5 percent of GDP for the region, rising to about 8 percent for some economies such as Singapore and Thailand.”
He added that supply chain risks are also growing.
“Disruptions of fertilisers and petrochemical inputs… can create broader supply chain pressures if the conflict persists.”
Despite the shock, Asia is still expected to drive global growth, although momentum is slowing.
“Regional growth is projected to moderate from 5 percent in 2025 to 4.4 percent in 2026 and 4.2 percent in 2027.”
“Inflation is projected to rise from 1.4 percent in 2025 to 2.6 percent in 2026 and to ease 2.4 percent in 2027.”
Srinivasan warned risks are now “firmly to the downside,” especially for vulnerable economies.
“This matters in parts of South Asia, Southeast Asia, and key among the Pacific Island countries.”
He said countries heavily reliant on imported fuel face the greatest risk.
“Economies that depend heavily on imported energy use are especially vulnerable.”
Under worse-case scenarios, the impact could deepen.
“This leads to a cumulative output loss of about 0.8 percent by 2027 for the major Asian economies… In the most severe scenario… cumulative output losses of almost 2 percent by 2027.”
He said policymakers must act carefully to manage the shock.
“The near-term priority is to absorb the shock while preserving space and price signals.”
On monetary policy, he said flexibility is key.
“But monetary policy should remain agile. A prolonged energy shock could weaken currencies and generate more persistent inflation.”
On fiscal policy, he warned against broad subsidies.
“Broad fuel subsidies, tax cuts, and general price caps may smoothen inflation in the short run, but they are costly, distortionary, often regressive, and very hard to unwind.”
Srinivasan said targeted support is the better option.
“Fiscal support should be temporary, with sunset clauses targeted to vulnerable households and viable firms.”
He also stressed the need for long-term reforms to build resilience.
“This shock strengthens the case for structural reform. It does not weaken it.”
He pointed to the need for better skills, stronger safety nets, and energy transition.
“We have been calling across Asia for stronger social safety nets… and last but not least, investment in alternative energy sources, energy efficiency, and power grids.”
Srinivasan said the region must act now to manage immediate risks while preparing for the future.
“So the near-term task is to absorb the shocks while preserving price signals and policy credibility. The medium-term task is to build a more resilient, more balanced, and more inclusive growth mode,” he said……PACNEWS
PNG – ECONOMY: ADB PACNEWS BIZ: Fri 17 Apr 2026
PNG’s Economic Growth to ease to 3.6 percent in 2026 and 3.4 percent in 2027—ADB
PORT MORESBY, 17 APRIL 2026 (ADB)—Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) economy is forecast to moderate to 3.6 percent in 2026 and 3.4 percent in 2027, according to the Asian Development Outlook (ADO) April 2026, Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) flagship economic publication.
The conflict in the Middle East is testing the resilience of developing Asia and the Pacific. Its impacts include higher energy and commodity prices, disrupted shipping routes, and tighter financial conditions.
Overall inflation in PNG is projected to increase from 4.4 percent in 2025 to 4.6 percent in 2026, before easing to 4.0 percent in 2027. Macro-fiscal reforms initiated by the government over the past few years have reduced the fiscal deficit, enhanced exchange rate flexibility, improved foreign exchange availability, bolstered private sector confidence, and supported import-dependent activities. However, structural challenges including power shortages, security concerns, inefficiency in public capital spending, and limited skilled human resources—further amplified by inflationary pressures, continue to weigh on the outlook.
“While mining is likely to remain a key growth driver in the short term, the Middle East conflict will adversely affect the non-resource sector, particularly as PNG remains dependent on imported diesel fuel for power generation,” said ADB Country Director for PNG Takafumi Kadono.
“To guard against further shocks, tax and other policy reforms can strengthen government revenue collection and support fiscal consolidation.’
The hydrocarbon sector—which makes up around 70 percent of resource-sector output—is expected to modestly benefit from the Middle East conflict, depending on the duration of the disruption. Both oil output and liquefied natural gas (LNG) production are projected to rise modestly in 2026, as LNG production already operated at near‑maximum capacity in 2025.
The report also notes that a final investment decision and commencement of the multibillion-dollar Papua LNG project, along with progress on other resource developments, could provide a substantial boost to economic activity….PACNEWS
PAC – FISHERIES: FFA PACNEWS BIZ: Fri 17 Apr 2026
U.S and FFA strengthen partnership on regional fisheries
HONIARA, 17 APRIL 2026 (FFA)— The U.S deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands, Matt Murray, visited the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) Headquarters in Honiara on Thursday, reaffirming the United States’ commitment to its partnership with the Pacific region.
Murray met with FFA Director-General, Noan David Pakop, who provided an overview of the Secretariat’s work and priorities. Discussions focused on the U.S Tuna Treaty, the work to address illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, and opportunities for strengthened collaboration.
Welcoming Murray to the Secretariat, Pakop acknowledged the significance of the visit.
“We greatly appreciate your visit, which reflects the importance the United States places on its engagement with the Pacific region and with the FFA and its Members.”
Murray highlighted the growing importance of the Pacific in U.S foreign policy, pointing to key areas of cooperation including the U.S Tuna Treaty and ongoing efforts to address illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.
He said the Pacific Islands remain a top priority, noting there is strong potential to build on existing partnerships and continue working closely together.
Murray also noted that Solomon Islands was among his first visits since taking up the role.
The United States remains a longstanding and valued partner of the FFA. Cooperation under the U.S Tuna Treaty, support for monitoring, control and surveillance operations, and broader maritime security efforts continue to play a critical role in supporting the sustainable management of the region’s ocean resources.
Pakop said the meeting came at an important time for the region.
“Today’s meeting provides an important opportunity for us to further strengthen this partnership, particularly as we navigate a dynamic regional and global environment,” he said.
Murray also toured the Regional Fisheries Surveillance Centre, gaining first-hand insight into the region’s monitoring and surveillance capabilities. The visit concluded with an exchange of gifts.
The United States is one of FFA’s key development partners, alongside Australia, New Zealand, the World Bank, the United Nations Development Programme, the European Union and Japan…..PACNEWS
UN – FOOD ALERT PLATFORM: UN NEWS CENTRE PACNEWS BIZ: Fri 17 Apr 2026
New food alert platform helps humanitarians combat hunger
NEW YORK, 17 APRIL 2026 (UN NEWS CENTRE) —The UN World Food Programme (WFP) released its next-generation platform on Thursday known as HungerMap Live, a digital monitoring and intelligence site that integrates food security data with predictive modelling to help fight hunger in more than 50 countries.
Bringing together data from more than 300 analysts and dozens of trusted partners – including government-validated statistics, hunger classification index the IPC, agricultural and economic data – the map provides the most complete and up-to-date picture of hunger facing the world’s most vulnerable.
“It allows you, journalists, but also policymakers, students here in the room, to have your finger on the pulse of global food insecurity,” the WFP’s Director of Food Security and Nutrition Analysis, Jean Martin Bauer, told journalists at the UN Headquarters in New York.
The release of the platform comes at a critical time with limited funding for humanitarian action and the number of people facing the most severe form of hunger has increased 15-fold from 85,000 in 2019, to 1.4 million in 2025, according to the internationally-recognised hunger index, the IPC – which issues famine alerts.
Through predictive modelling, the map answers three critical questions: What is the current state of food security across the world? Which countries and regions require urgent attention? And what are the underlying factors contributing to food security needs?
Studies have shown that early warning of emerging food security issues can lead to tremendous cost savings and operational efficiencies. For every dollar invested in WFP’s anticipatory action programs, a minimum of seven dollars is procured in savings.
“Without data, the fight against hunger is fought in the dark,” WFP Executive Director, Cindy McCain, said, “this platform changes that…we’re able to track and predict where, how and why hunger is growing, which means that we don’t just respond to hunger – we get ahead of it.”
The map offers AI-assisted forecasting capabilities for projected food needs in WFP-designated Hunger Hotspots, 16 countries with populations already struggling with catastrophic hunger.
Another novel feature is the inclusion of “micronutrient intake adequacy,” which links food-security conditions with the nutritional quality of diets.
This nutrition analysis, developed with support from the Gates Foundation, helps identify populations at risk of hidden hunger caused by inadequate intake of essential vitamins and minerals.
Funding for global food security monitoring and analysis has been on an alarming decline with WFP’s data footprint shrinking 25 percent in the past year.
“You can’t stop hunger if you can’t see it coming,” Bauer added.
“That’s why it’s crucial that we keep funding the collection of this data, so that society has a trusted, evidence-based early warning system that can alert the world about emerging and alarming conditions, and the risk of human suffering, before it’s too late.”….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 peacekeeping missions under strain as funding cuts and new threats grow
NEW YORK, 17 APRIL 2026 (UN NEWS CENTRE) —From election support in the Central African Republic to patrols in the disputed Abyei region, UN peacekeepers are operating in increasingly volatile environments – but shrinking resources and new threats, including drone warfare, are testing their ability to keep communities safe.
Briefing ambassadors in the Security Council, senior officials warned that peacekeeping missions are under growing strain, as financial constraints, evolving conflict dynamics and rising operational risks challenge their capacity to protect civilians and sustain fragile gains.
“Our peacekeeping operations must continue to be flexible and adaptable,” said Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for peace operations, stressing that missions remain a vital tool for helping countries move from conflict towards lasting peace.
Yet that role is becoming harder to fulfil.
Funding crunch and blind spots
Peacekeeping missions have faced “significant financial challenges” over the past year, prompting contingency measures that are already affecting performance on the ground, he said, warning that that budget cuts are constraining missions’ ability to carry out core mandates – including protecting civilians and ensuring the safety of UN personnel.
The closure of bases and reduced air support have weakened situational awareness and early warning systems, “creating blind spots, limiting proactive intervention and timely deployment to hotspots.”
Lacroix urged Member States to pay their assessed contributions “in full and on time”, emphasising that predictable resources are essential for missions to operate effectively.
‘Uneven and fragile’ progress in CAR
On the ground in the Central African Republic (CAR), UN peacekeepers have helped support a period of relative stability following the December 2025 elections, which were conducted largely peacefully.
Lieutenant General Humphrey Nyone, Force Commander of the UN mission there (MINUSCA), said the country has entered a “post-election consolidation phase”, with improved security in several regions.
But he cautioned that the situation remains “uneven and fragile”.
In parts of the northeast and southeast, armed groups continue to carry out attacks, including abductions and serious human rights violations. Instability is also being fuelled by spillover from the conflict in neighbouring Sudan, with cross-border movements of armed elements and displaced civilians adding pressure to already vulnerable communities.
At the same time, funding shortfalls are hampering MINUSCA’s ability to respond effectively.
Abyei: Stable but precarious
A similar picture is emerging in Abyei – the disputed, oil-rich area straddling Sudan and South Sudan – where UN peacekeepers operate under particularly difficult conditions.
Major General Ganesh Kumar Shrestha, Force Commander of the UN Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA), described the area as “relatively stable” – but stressed that this stability is “neither automatic nor self-sustaining”.
Rather, it is maintained through constant engagement, patrols and coordination with local communities.
Low-level violence, including intercommunal clashes, cattle raiding and criminal activity, continues to pose risks, while the presence of unauthorised armed groups violates existing agreements.
The situation has been further complicated by the war in Sudan, which has disrupted political processes and increased insecurity in the border region.
New threats emerging
Drone warfare linked to the Sudan conflict has already caused UN casualties elsewhere and forced UNISFA to abandon key positions, including a logistics base.
These developments have raised serious questions about how the mission can continue to monitor and secure the demilitarised zone.
Across missions, UN officials stressed the need to adapt peacekeeping to a rapidly evolving security environment.
While missions are employing new technologies, such as drones and satellite imagery to improve situational awareness and force protection, “technology alone is not a solution,” said Lacroix.
Missions need sufficient and trained personnel, integrated planning and sustained resources.
Call for global commitment
Ultimately, the UN officials stressed that the effectiveness of peacekeeping depends not only on operational improvements, but on political will.
“The collective credibility of the United Nations depends on its ability and its determination to act when civilians are in danger,” Lacroix said.
“Without sustained and unequivocal backing from this Council, our missions cannot deliver on the mandates entrusted to them, nor can they fully support the political processes at the heart of lasting peace,” he added…..PACNEWS
