In this bulletin:
1. PACIFIC — Climate talks address Pacific’s growing security risks
2. PACIFIC — Pacific must defeat corruption to prosper
3. NZ — NZ Court rules midwives underpaid in landmark win for women’s work
4. SAMOA — Mataafa Faatino nominated for UN Rights Committee
5. VAN — Vanuatu Citizenship rules changed to curb revenue losses
6. VAN — Luganville authorities assess damage after magnitude 7.2 quake
7. FIJI — Severe coral bleaching detected in northern reefs, warns Reef Explorer Fiji
8. FIJI — Japan boosts Fiji’s disaster response with $5.5m support
9. PACIFIC — NZ Army and Pacific soldiers dig deep in core soldiering skills competition
10. PALAU — Palauan mum beats liver death sentence in Taiwan transplant first
11. PACNEWS BIZ — World Bank warns of rising costs as Middle East conflict hits global markets
12. PACNEWS BIZ — Global oil crisis set to hit Fiji, region
13. PACNEWS BIZ — Developing countries are being priced out, in struggle for affordable finance
14. PACNEWS BIZ — Palau Post Office tightens P.O. box rules to boost security, combat illegal shipments
15. PACNEWS IN FOCUS — Traditional protection proves more successful for clams in American Samoa
16. PACNEWS DIGEST– Cash for guns in PNG: smart reform or short-term fix?
17. PACNEWS DIGEST — PAVE training strengthening resilience to health impacts of climate change
PAC – CLIMATE CHANGE: NATIONAL INDIGENOUS TIMES PACNEWS3: Wed 31 Mar 2026
Climate talks address Pacific’s growing security risks
SUVA, 31 MARCH 2026 (NATIONAL INDIGENOUS TIMES) —Funding for fighting climate change across the Pacific is not keeping up pace with the urgency of the crisis amid complex systems, slow approvals and further risks that block access to its vital finance.
Climate Finance and Resilience Programme Adviser at the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat – the principal political and policy organisation for the inter-governmental cooperative – Karlos Moresi said that strict requirements, a lengthy approval process and limited national representation frequently delays the flow of funds to the region.
“Global climate finance systems are not designed with small-island developing states in mind, creating barriers that prevent timely and effective support for vulnerable (Pacific) nations,” he told the recent Climate Talk: Navigating Climate Risks Talanoa Dialogue conference in Suva.
Moresi stressed that Pacific Island nation-states were also making efforts to mobilise their own resources, including through individual national budgets, but international systems must better align with these efforts to maximise the positive impact for some of the communities most greatly affected by climate change.
“There really is a need to simplify processes to create dedicated funding windows for our Pacific countries,” he said.
Participants in the conference discussed the role of the Fiji Development Bank – the strongest of the financial institutions in the Pacific region – and the Green Climate Fund (GCF) in addressing what was termed “financial bottlenecks” by a noted delegate, according to Moresi.
For the fiscal backers to fund climate change measures, the risk of foreign exchange is commonly passed down the line to the Pasifika communities through various local organisations.
Minor currency fluctuations can add millions of dollars extra to project costs just from an expected five to 10 basis-point movement in foreign exchange, Moresi explained.
Moresi noted that the Pacific Islands Forum has been raising concerns in discussions with the Green Climate Fund (GCF), which addresses the issues of quicker and simpler fiscal access for developing nations.
“We are trying to push for solutions that reduce currency-related risks and make funding more accessible to the countries that need it most,” he said.
The challenges of translating regional decisions into implementing national actions for Pasifika communities was also key on the agenda.
He emphasised that climate change finance is not just about funding national projects, but also over building trust and ensuring international funds are channelled effectively through national systems.
“It is critical that resources reach local communities where they are most needed to strengthen resilience and support preparedness,” Moresi said.
Moresi highlighted the importance of engagement ahead of the 2026 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) to be held in November, noting the important role of civil society organisations from the Pacific in shaping outcomes on the world stage in Turkey.
This had strong support from one of the world’s most powerful voices during the discussions in the Fijian capital. Germany’s Ambassador to Fiji and the Pacific, Dr Andreas Prothmann, said climate change is no longer solely an environmental concern, but also a growing threat to security, stability and development throughout the region.
Dr Prothmann said Pacific Island states are already experiencing the harshest realities of global warming with impacts being felt by communities, their livelihoods and the economy.
He emphasised the region has long recognised the seriousness of the crisis, pointing to the Pacific Islands Forum Boe Declaration on regional security, which first identified climate change as the single greatest threat to the well-being of Pasifika people.
“Across the Pacific, climate change is not a distant scenario – it is a lived reality,” Dr Prothmann said.
“In many ways, the Pacific has long understood what the international community is only now fully grasping – that climate risk is inseparable from economic resilience, social stability and long-term security.”
Dr Prothmann said Germany values its partnership with Fiji and other Pacific Island nation-states, noting that cooperation is grounded in “its mutual respect and shared priorities”.
He highlighted that addressing climate change is central not only to environmental protection, but also to sustainable development and human security.
The Climate Talk: Navigating Climate Risks Talanoa Dialogue conference was timely, which provided an important platform for governments, development partners and agencies, and civil society to deepen their understanding of the link between climate change, security and finance.
“Our goal is not only to exchange views, but to identify practical pathways forward,” Dr Prothmann said……PACNEWS
PAC – ANTI CORRUPTION: ISLANDS BUSINESS PACNEWS 3: Tue 31 Mar 2026
Pacific must defeat corruption to prosper
SUVA, 31 MARCH 2026 (ISLANDS BUSINESS)—A regional academic has warned that the Pacific cannot achieve peace or prosperity unless it confronts corruption head-on, calling it a “tapeworm” quietly draining the region’s strength.
Dr Shailendra Singh—the Head of the Journalism Programme at the University of the South Pacific (USP)—said corruption made peace difficult to achieve.
“If you have corruption, you cannot have those things together. It is very simple,” he said.
“Where there is corruption, it is hard to achieve goals like an ocean of peace.”
Speaking at the Teieniwa Vision Anniversary Panel Discussion on Corruption, Singh commended the vision for explicitly linking anti-corruption efforts to peace, progress and prosperity, stressing that the connection is undeniable.
Singh posed two critical questions: How much impact has been made against corruption in the Pacific? And how much of an impediment does corruption remain to the region’s growth?
To address those questions, he pointed to the latest Corruption Perceptions Index released earlier this month by Transparency International, which states that corruption remains a persistent challenge across the Pacific and continues to undermine the region’s future, despite ongoing efforts.
According to the index, Papua New Guinea recorded the lowest score among Pacific Island countries, with 26 out of 100, 19 points lower than the Asia-Pacific average. Fiji scored 55 points, making it the best-performing Pacific Island country.
However, Singh noted that Fiji’s score had not improved over the past five years.
“At least according to this report, Fiji is stagnant,” he said.
“Corruption remains a thorn in Fiji, unfortunately.”
He likened corruption to a creature—a tapeworm feeding quietly from within, draining strength and slowing progress—warning that if left unchecked, it debilitates and ultimately destroys its host.
“It is no wonder Kofi Annan called corruption a cancer that spreads and ultimately undermines development,” Singh said.
Describing corruption as an old, stubborn foe in the Pacific, he said the Teieniwa Vision’s call for Pacific states to unite in the fight is well-placed.
“But on this anniversary, are we united in actual action or only in words?” he asked.
Singh said he arrived at that question after scrutinising the latest Transparency International report, which urges Pacific leaders to move beyond statements and prioritise meaningful action against corruption – a point he noted had also been raised by earlier speakers at the panel.
He highlighted that the Teieniwa Vision contains several pledges and commitments, including the right to information and whistleblower protection, both of which are strongly articulated within the document.
“The question then is, how many Pacific Island countries have passed right to information and whistleblower protection legislation? Do the words match the actions?”
He said, unfortunately, hardly any countries have passed these two critical pieces of legislation, with many bills still going through slow and painful parliamentary and administrative processes, even as corruption runs rampant in some countries.
The lack of implementation, he said, raises serious questions about commitment to the Vision being celebrated.
Singh stressed that the region is morally bound to do better, because corruption is predatory and parasitic by nature and disproportionately affects vulnerable populations – including women, persons with disabilities, youth and the elderly.
He pointed out that about 25 percent—or one in four people—in the Pacific live in poverty, and around 40 per cent of Pacific children are at risk of falling below the poverty line.
“These are kids. We should all be very concerned about this,” he said, describing the situation as an urgent call for meaningful action and actual outcomes.
While acknowledging that progress has been made in some areas, Singh admitted his presentation may have sounded negative, but the reality demanded honesty.
Like corruption, he said, poverty was also an old enemy of the Pacific and the two were closely linked.
“They are relatives,” he said.
“We cannot quite get rid of one without dealing with the other.”
If the region is serious about eliminating poverty, he argued, it must tackle corruption decisively. History, he said, indicates that both corruption and poverty will remain unwanted companions unless the Pacific changes the way it normally operates.
“Maybe some things need to change,” he added.
Singh said the onus, as emphasised in the vision itself, lay largely with leadership – those entrusted with and well compensated to govern.
He said leaders must commit to accountable governance, ensuring that all persons with authority, including Cabinet ministers, parliamentarians and public servants, adhere strictly to their codes of conduct.
“The question is, are our parliamentarians adhering to the vision statement, or are these just empty words?” he asked.
Echoing Transparency International, he said Pacific leaders must act with conviction to build a region founded on integrity and public trust.
“All anti-corruption actions are worth the effort,” he said, noting that the world’s most prosperous and progressive countries are also among the least corrupt.
He cited neighbouring countries Australia and New Zealand, which consistently rank highly on global corruption indices, as examples.
“The message for the Pacific is unambiguous,” Singh said.
“We have to drown corruption before we can dream of an ocean of peace and prosperity,” said Singh…..PACNEWS
NZ – COURTS: PMN PACNEWS 3: Tue 31 Mar 2026
NZ Court rules midwives underpaid in landmark win for women’s work
WELLINGTON, 31 MARCH 2026 (PMN)—New Zealand’s High Court has ruled that underpaying midwives is unlawful discrimination, a major decision that shines a light on how women’s work continues to be undervalued.
The case, brought by the New Zealand College of Midwives, found the Crown breached the Bill of Rights Act by paying self-employed midwives less than what is fair and reasonable.
According to Te Whatu Ora/Health NZ, midwives in Aotearoa earn an average annual salary between $90,000(US$51,440) and $138,000+(US$78,873, depending on experience, seniority, and role type.
Newly qualified midwives often start around $64,000 (US$36,575) to $84,000(US$48,005), while experienced midwives (5+ years) or senior roles can earn between $87,000(US$49,718) and $138,000(US$78,873, with some specialist roles exceeding $160,000(US$91,436).
Last Friday’s ruling confirms there is a significant gap between what midwives are paid and what their work is worth.
Te Kāhui Tika Tangata Human Rights Commission has welcomed the decision, saying it highlights long-standing inequality in jobs dominated by women.
Equal Employment Opportunities Commissioner Professor Gail Pacheco, who gave expert evidence in the case, pointed to deep-rooted issues in how this work is valued.
“The wages for this occupation continue to be infected by historical undervaluation, reflecting gender-related inequity,” she said. “This must be actively addressed to provide appropriate pay corrections.”
The case was taken on behalf of nearly 1500 lead maternity carer midwives, many of whom are self-employed and work long, unpredictable hours supporting whānau through pregnancy and birth.
Pacheco also acknowledged the effort behind the legal fight.
“I would like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of those who brought the claim and particularly the midwives who have remained dedicated to seeking fair pay for the vitally important, emotionally demanding, and skilful work they do every day.”
For Pacific communities, this decision hits close to home. Pasifika women are strongly represented in caring roles across health and community services, jobs that are often underpaid despite their importance.
According to the Ministry of Health, there were 111 Pacific midwives in Aotearoa in 2024. That’s just 3.3 percent of the total midwifery workforce as Pasifika make up 9.8 percent of the population.
While the data doesn’t break this down specifically by gender, midwifery is an overwhelmingly female profession in New Zealand, so most of those 111 Pacific midwives are women.
Midwives play a key role in supporting Pacific families, where strong relationships, trust, and cultural understanding are critical during pregnancy and birth.
The ruling raises bigger questions about how society values care work especially work done by women, and by women of colour.
The decision comes at a time when pay equity rights in Aotearoa have taken a step backwards.
Recent changes to the Equal Pay Act in 2025 stopped 33 active claims affecting thousands of workers and made it harder to bring new cases.
That makes this High Court ruling even more significant. It reinforces that pay equity, equal pay for work of equal value, is not just a policy issue, but a basic human right.
While the ruling is a major win, it also puts pressure on the Government to fix how midwives are paid.
For many, this is about more than wages. It’s about respect, recognition, and fairness for work that supports families and communities every day.
And for Pacific communities, it adds to a wider call: that the people caring for our families should be properly valued – not just in words, but in pay….PACNEWS
SAMOA – DIPLOMACY: SAMOA OBSERVER PACNEWS 3: Tue 31 Mar 2026
Mataafa Faatino nominated for UN Rights Committee
APIA, 31 MARCH 2026 (SAMOA OBSERVER)—Samoa has nominated disability rights advocate Mataafa Faatino Utumapu for election to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities for the 2027–2030 term.
The Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development of Samoa announced.
The election will take place during the nineteenth session of the Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities at United Nations Headquarters in New York from 9–11 June 2026. The body oversees the implementation of the treaty under the United Nations framework, specifically the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Mataafa recently participated in CSW70, where she served as a panellist at Samoa’s first side event titled Women, Justice and Leadership. The event also marked the global launch of Women’s Quest.
She is widely recognised as a Pacific leader in disability rights and inclusive governance. Over the past decade, she has worked on disability policy, system strengthening, and service delivery for persons with disabilities.
Her areas of expertise include implementation and reporting under the Convention, disability-inclusive policy and legal reform, and integrating Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion across national systems.
She has also led Samoa’s National Disability Policy and Action Plan, supported the country’s first CRPD state reporting process, and helped embed disability inclusion across government and development systems.
Mataafa serves as General Manager of Nuanua o le Alofa, Samoa’s national organisation of persons with disabilities, and is Co-Chair of the Pacific Disability Forum.
Government officials say her nomination reflects Samoa’s commitment to strengthening disability inclusion and advancing representation at the global level.
Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development, Loau Donina Vaa, said:
“Mataafa brings both technical expertise and lived experience, grounded in delivery and focused on results. Her leadership reflects Samoa’s commitment to ensuring that inclusion is not only upheld in principle, but realised in practice. Her presence at CSW70 further demonstrated the strength of Pacific leadership on the global stage.”
The Government says it looks forward to engaging with member states and seeking support for her candidacy….PACNEWS
VAN – CITIZENSHIP: VANUATU DAILY POST PACNEWS 3: Tue 31 Mar 2026
Vanuatu Citizenship rules changed to curb revenue losses
PORT VILA, 31 MARCH 2026 (VANUATU DAILY POST)—Vanuatu has moved to tighten its citizenship by investment programme after currency conversion arrangements cut into government revenue, prompting new rules to correct the imbalance without increasing fees.
The Citizenship Office has issued a formal notice to all designated agents on amendments to Vanuatu’s citizenship by investment programmes, following the publication of Official Gazette No. 25 of 2026 on 19 March 2026.
Citizenship Commission Chairman Charlie Maniel told the Vanuatu Daily Post the changes aim to correct currency conversion issues rather than increase fees.
He explained that the current system requires payments in United States dollars (USD) and Australian dollars (AUD) to be converted into Japanese yen (JPY), resulting in lower revenue collection.
Maniel said the USD and AUD remain strong against the weaker JPY, creating an imbalance under existing arrangements.
“As a result, when traded with the current prescribed amounts, the government loses or collects very low revenue,” he said.
He said the amendments are designed to maintain a fair market value for Vanuatu’s citizenship programme in the global market.
Despite concerns about possible increases, Maniel confirmed the amendments do not change the prescribed fees or contribution amounts, and apply only to how USD and AUD payments are converted into JPY.
“There is no adjustment to fees or contribution amounts,” he said.
Maniel also confirmed there are no new requirements or procedures for applicants or designated agents.
The Citizenship Office notice, dated 23 March 2026 and signed by Secretary General Patrick Peter Fred, outlines changes under the Citizenship (Development Support Programme) Regulations (Amendment) Order No. 39 of 2026 and the Citizenship (Contribution Programme) Regulations (Amendment) Order No. 40 of 2026.
The amendments will take full effect within two months, allowing agents and clients time to complete pending applications under the current system. Designated agents have been advised to ensure all future applications comply with the updated framework, with further guidance expected.
The transition period also allows applicants to complete outstanding payments and adjust to the revised arrangements.
The changes form part of ongoing efforts to maintain the financial viability of the citizenship by investment programme in the global market….PACNEWS
VAN – EARTHQUAKE: VANUATU DAILY POST PACNEWS 3: Tue 31 Mar 2026
Luganville authorities assess damage after magnitude 7.2 quake
PORT VILA, 31 MARCH 2026 (VANUATU DAILY POST)—Authorities in Luganville, Santo are mobilising to assess damage after a magnitude 7.2 earthquake shook the Pacific Island nation of Vanuatu shortly before 8pm Monday.
The quake was centred roughly 21 miles northeast of Luganville, the country’s second-largest municipality, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
Despite its strength, with an epicentre about 72 miles below the Earth’s surface, no tsunami warning was issued. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), earthquakes deeper than 62 miles below the Earth’s surface are unlikely to trigger tsunamis.
Vanuatu’s Meteorology and Geo-hazards Department (VMGD) urged residents in the provinces of TORBA, SANMA, PENAMA, and MALAMPA to avoid coastal areas and remain alert. Vanuatu lies along the boundary between the Indo-Australian and Pacific tectonic plates and is one of the most seismically active regions of the Pacific Ring of Fire, according to the USGS.
The Ring of Fire is a 25,000-mile chain of volcanoes surrounding the Pacific Ocean, where 90 percent of the world’s earthquakes occur…PACNEWS
FIJI – CORAL BLEACHING: FIJI TIMES PACNEWS 3: Tue 31 Mar 2026
Severe coral bleaching detected in northern reefs, warns Reef Explorer Fiji
SUVA, 31 MARCH 2026 (FIJI TIMES)—Coral reefs in Fiji’s Northern Division are showing signs of severe bleaching, with some mortality already recorded in shallow areas, according to a social media update by Reef Explorer Fiji.
The organisation said its director recently surveyed reefs in Savusavu Bay, along the Hibiscus Highway and in Natewa Bay, where significant bleaching was observed.
“Pretty severe bleaching was found on reefs in Savusavu Bay down to about 8–10 metres, as well as on reef flats along the Hibiscus Highway, with some mortality already observed in the shallowest areas,” the statement said.
Despite the severity, Reef Explorer Fiji noted that some coral colonies, particularly among the most vulnerable species, were showing strong resistance to heat stress.
“What is reassuring to see is that there are some colonies… showing strong bleaching resistance despite the heat stress they are facing,” it said.
The organisation said these resilient corals could play a key role in future reef recovery and climate adaptation efforts.
“For those involved with coral restoration, this is the time that nature is showing you the colonies that will be the ‘winners’ in future years.”
Reef Explorer Fiji encouraged restoration programmes to prioritise collecting coral fragments from multiple resilient colonies to support breeding and long-term recovery.
It said such efforts could help accelerate natural adaptation processes as reefs respond to warming ocean temperatures….PACNEWS
FIJI – DISASTER RESPONSE: FIJI SUN PACNEWS 3: Tue 31 Mar 2026
Japan boosts Fiji’s disaster response with $5.5m support
SUVA, 31 MARCH 2026 (FIJI SUN)—Fiji’s disaster response capability has been strengthened with a $5.5 million(US$2.75 million) assistance package from Japan, including ambulances, medical tents and life-saving equipment for the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF).
The support — delivered under Japan’s Official Security Assistance (OSA) programme — includes four ambulances, two sets of medical field tents and four automated external defibrillators (AEDs), aimed at improving emergency response during disasters.
The assistance was formalised during an Exchange of Notes signing ceremony at the RFMF Strategic Headquarters in Suva Monday.
Japan’s Ambassador to Fiji Hiroshi Tajima said the support would serve both daily medical needs and emergency situations.
“This assistance is intended not only to meet routine medical needs, but also to play a vital role in emergency situations, including disaster response and the urgent transport of patients,” he said.
Minister for Defence Pio Tikoduadua said the assistance was critical for a country vulnerable to climate-related disasters.
“Disaster preparedness is not optional. It is a state requirement,” he said. “During a national emergency, these resources will be deployed to provide rapid medical response and humanitarian relief.”
The equipment can be deployed during cyclones, floods and other emergencies, boosting frontline response capacity.
This marks the second round of OSA support Fiji has received from Japan. The first, in 2023, was valued at 400 million Japanese yen (FJD$5.6 million) and focused on strengthening the Navy’s maritime surveillance.
The OSA programme, established in 2023, aims to enhance defence and security cooperation with partner nations, with Fiji among the first Pacific countries selected.
The partnership is guided by the Lomavata-Kizuna framework, which focuses on disaster resilience and regional stability.
Fiji and Japan have shared diplomatic relations for 56 years, since 1970….PACNEWS
PAC – DEFENCE: NZDF PACNEWS 3: Tue 31 Mar 2026
NZ Army and Pacific soldiers dig deep in core soldiering skills competition
AUCKLAND, 31 MARCH 2026 (NZDF)—New Zealand Army soldiers and their Pacific counterparts have been pushed to their limits in a fiercely contested 1st (NZ) Brigade Skill at Arms competition at Waiouru in the central North Island.
Ten teams from across the brigade (including three Reserve Force teams) were last week joined by Australians, Fijians and, for the first time, a team from Tonga’s His Majesty’s Armed Forces.
The three-day competition is designed to push soldiers to their limits, testing core fighting skills, endurance, teamwork, and leadership in challenging conditions under pressure.
Jubilant soldiers from 5th/7th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment eventually scooped all three trophies; the Falling Plate trophy (a shooting competition testing both shooting accuracy and speed) and the Top Reserve Force trophy – winning bragging rights for one of the NZ Army’s most demanding and respected competitions.
The competition simulates a range of all-arms scenarios including close combat and open combat across a variety of environments and is set at a level that makes it accessible to all trades within the brigade whilst ensuring high standards and a combat focus.
The trades include mechanics, drivers, engineers and artillery competing against infantry soldiers and gunners.
Training Warrant Officer, Warrant Officer Class One (WO1) Paul Buckley, says Skill at Arms is more than just a competition, it’s a snapshot of where the soldiers are excelling and what areas need more work.
“All soldiers – combat and combat support services – must display core soldering skills of weapon handling, fitness and combat shooting techniques,” he said.
The soldiers are challenged when they’re cold, tired, wet and under time pressure. They covered around 20km carrying packs weighing 30kg while tired and on minimal food and sleep.
“These tests identify their physical and mental strength, painting a picture as to how soldiers will perform in arduous and austere conditions in potential combat situations,” WO1 Buckley said.
“Specific challenges like the pond swim in cold conditions and driving rain test their resilience and teamwork. We want to see teams digging deep and encouraging each other when the going gets tough.
“That’s what soldiering is all about – world class combat skills, integrity, courage, commitment and comradeship.”
The competition also provides a vital opportunity to forge deeper relationships in the region.
Fiji’s Lance Corporal Timothy MacPherson says the weather was challenging but his team embraced the cold and rain.
“We chose not to wear wet weather gear so we could make the experience as hard as possible. This is what we may encounter overseas so we need to be able to perform.
“Everyone expected the pond swim to be our weakest point and when we got in, we couldn’t feel our legs. But our spirit got us through and we scored 1000 marks out of a 1000.
“When we heard that, we were shouting like it was the end of the competition.”
1st (NZ) Brigade Commander, Colonel Mike van Welie, says forging deeper relationships in the region is vital.
“The threats to our nations are too much to weather alone, but together we can harness our individual strengths and secure our region.
“There are a range of pressures that affect our region from climate change to strategic competition. Each of these things impacts our security as a nation and people’s feelings of security and safety.
“Our military is the nation’s insurance policy, and we must be ready at short notice for whatever might happen.
“Skill at Arms and other exercises where we work closely with our ally Australia and our Pacific friends builds mutual trust and collective capability.
“We know that we can respond together to challenges in our region. In short, we have each other’s backs.”
Observers from Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea observed the competition with a view to sending teams next year….PACNEWS
PALAU – HEALTH: ISLAND TIMES PACNEWS 3: Tue 31 Mar 2026
Palauan mum beats liver death sentence in Taiwan transplant first
KOROR, 31 MARCH 2026 (ISLAND TIMES) — “I thought I was going to die, but now I have a second chance at life thanks to Taiwan,” said Mildred, a 58-year-old Palauan mother whose firefighter son’s liver donation saved her from advanced cirrhosis.
The emotional saga peaked 21 August 2025, when Mackay Memorial Hospital in Taiwan pulled off Palau’s first living donor liver transplant—a high-stakes operation that fused cutting-edge surgery with cross-Pacific grit.
Mildred’s nightmare began with primary biliary cholangitis, a ruthless autoimmune disease that turns the liver’s bile ducts into battlegrounds. Inflammation scarred her organ into cirrhosis, leaving transplant as her only shot.
Dr Chun-Chang Lin, the hospital’s deputy surgery superintendent, greenlit the procedure after rigorous tests.
Her son, a brave firefighter, stepped up as donor—his healthy liver lobe becoming her lifeline. The International Medical Centre orchestrated the feat despite brutal hurdles.
Crystal from Mackay Memorial detailed the milestone’s impact: “The successful completion of Palau’s first living donor liver transplant by Mackay Memorial Hospital represents a major milestone for the people of Palau. It not only demonstrates the tangible outcomes of international medical cooperation, but also underscores that advanced medical services can be made accessible even for countries with limited healthcare resources.
This achievement has significantly strengthened public confidence in healthcare among the Palauan population and laid a solid foundation for future cross-border collaborations in managing complex medical procedures. It ensures that, when needed, Palauan patients can access timely, reliable, and high-quality advanced medical care, thereby enhancing overall healthcare accessibility in Palau.”
She also spotlighted the challenges: “The primary challenges of this case stemmed from cross-border coordination and the integration of medical resources. Living donor liver transplantation requires meticulous pre-operative evaluation, a highly specialised surgical team, advanced equipment, and comprehensive pharmaceutical support.
In addition, logistical arrangements—such as international travel, accommodation for both donor and recipient, and pre-operative isolation procedures—added further administrative complexity. To address these challenges, a cross-national task force was established, bringing together transplant specialists from Taiwan, healthcare providers from Palau, and administrative support personnel. Through intensive pre-operative consultations and detailed planning, the team ensured full preparedness and developed comprehensive contingency protocols.”
Mildred walked out 25 days later, though a three-month biliary snag required endoscopic fixes. Now thriving, she’s flying home to Palau on Thursday and faces Taiwan checkups every three months.
Crystal wrapped up: “The successful completion of this transplant not only safeguarded the health and safety of both donor and recipient, but also demonstrated the efficiency and effectiveness of international medical collaboration.
This case stands as a testament to the dedication and teamwork of the entire Mackay medical team, while also highlighting Taiwan’s soft power in delivering high-quality healthcare services to international patients.” ….PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
USA- IRAN CRISIS: PACNEWS PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 31 Mar 2026
World Bank warns of rising costs as Middle East cConflict hits global markets
WASHINGTON, 31 MARCH 2026 (PACNEWS)— The World Bank Group says the ongoing conflict in the Middle East is already driving up global costs and disrupting supply chains, with developing countries feeling the pressure.
In a statement, the World Bank said several of its clients in emerging markets have reached out as the crisis begins to affect commodity prices and logistics.
“A number of the World Bank Group’s clients in emerging markets have reached out to us as the conflict in the Middle East has started to impact commodity prices and logistics. We are working with governments, the private sector, regional partners, and other stakeholders to help them through this new set of challenges.”
The institution said it is closely tracking developments and engaging directly with the most affected countries.
“We are closely monitoring global market developments, and we are in direct contact with the most affected client countries to understand what they are facing on the ground.”
The statement highlighted sharp increases in key global prices, warning of broader risks to food and energy security.
“Shipping route disruptions are increasing costs, and supply risks are spreading from energy into fertilisers and other critical agricultural inputs. Crude oil prices increased by nearly 40 percent between February and March, the price of liquefied natural gas shipments to Asia rose by almost two-thirds, and the prices of nitrogen-based fertilisers increased by nearly 50 percent in March.”
The World Bank said it is moving quickly to support countries facing the fallout.
“The World Bank Group is moving quickly to help client countries to navigate this crisis. We are ready to respond at scale — combining immediate financial relief with policy expertise and private sector support for the recovery of jobs and growth.”
It added that support will be delivered through multiple channels, including direct financing and private sector assistance.
“We will draw on the full range of instruments we have available to support governments, firms, and households. Our aim is to deliver immediate relief by leveraging our active portfolio, our crisis response toolkit, and pre-arranged financing facilities.”
“We will transition progressively to fast-disbursing instruments anchored in sound policies to underpin recovery. Through our private sector arms, we will provide firms with essential liquidity, trade finance, and working capital.”
The World Bank warned the situation remains uncertain and could worsen if the conflict drags on.
“Clearly, this is an evolving situation and we cannot predict the full range of impacts. As everyone has said, the longer this lasts, and the more damage there is to critical infrastructure, the more challenging this will be for our clients.”
Despite the risks, the institution said it remains committed to supporting countries through the crisis.
“That said, we are determined to be helpful and do all we can to safeguard some of the hard-won economic progress that these countries are making.”….PACNEWS
FIJI – IRAN CRISIS/FUEL PRICE: FIJI SUN PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 31 Mar 2026
Global oil crisis set to hit Fiji, region
SUVA, 31 MARCH 2026 (FIJI SUN)—Fiji and other Pacific Island countries face growing economic pressure as rising global oil prices and supply chain disruptions threaten fuel costs and stability across the region.
Experts warn the ongoing Middle East conflict could significantly impact fuel prices, with Pacific nations remaining highly vulnerable due to their reliance on imported petroleum.
A 2009 Asian Development Bank study ranked seven Pacific Island countries, including Fiji, among the top 10 most vulnerable on the Oil Price Vulnerability Index.
Fiji National University College of Engineering and Technical and Vocational Education and Training dean Professor Atul Kumar Raturi said the region’s dependence on imported fuel leaves it exposed.
“Since all petroleum products are imported in the Pacific, any rise in fuel prices will affect PICs adversely, impacting every energy process from electricity generation to transport, and ultimately increasing the cost of goods,” Professor Raturi said.
He said the situation had worsened due to global supply disruptions, including the partial closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for nearly 30 per cent of the world’s oil trade.
“The conflict has reduced global supply by approximately 7 to 8 million barrels per day. On 18 March, one of the largest gas fields shared by Iran and Qatar was attacked, pushing oil prices up to around USD 110 per barrel. This has triggered supply chain disruptions across Asia and Europe,” he said.
Professor Raturi warned the impact may not be immediate.
“The effects will be felt in the coming days. Existing fuel shipments may temporarily cushion price increases, but future imports are likely to reflect higher global prices,” he said.
He also pointed to revised forecasts by Standard Chartered Bank, with Brent crude expected to average USD$85.50 per barrel in 2026, up from USD$70, and USD$77.50 in 2027, up from USD$ 67.
Amid the uncertainty, he urged both Government and the public to act.
“Citizens can support Government efforts by being mindful of energy consumption. Using public transport, carpooling, reducing air conditioning usage, walking or cycling short distances, and adopting energy-efficient cooking methods such as induction stoves can help conserve limited fuel supplies,” he said.
Professor Raturi stressed the need for a long-term shift away from fossil fuels.
“To reduce dependence on imported petroleum, we must electrify key energy sectors including transport and manufacturing. This transition must be supported by renewable energy sources such as hydropower, solar, biomass and others,” he said.
He said solar investment offered strong benefits.
“Each megawatt of solar installed in areas such as Nadi can reduce diesel consumption by over 300,000 litres annually. Despite initial capital costs, solar photovoltaic systems offer strong economic returns and enhance energy security,” he said.
While Fiji has made progress, he noted challenges remain.
“While Fiji has substantial hydropower resources, approximately 40 per cent of electricity is still generated using diesel and heavy fuel oil. This must be significantly reduced in line with Fiji’s Nationally Determined Contributions and Low Emissions Development Strategy,” he said.
He added that renewable options such as biomass, geothermal and wind should also be explored.
“Access to reliable and clean energy is essential to achieving broader sustainable development goals, including improvements in health, water, education and climate resilience. Strengthening renewable energy development alongside electrification is critical to avoiding future shocks and ensuring long-term sustainability,” Professor Raturi said…..PACNEWS
UN – CREDIT RATINGS: UN NEWS CENTRE PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 31 Mar 2026
Developing countries are being priced out, in struggle for affordable finance
NEW YORK, 31 MARCH 2026 (UN NEWS CENTRE)—Developing countries are being priced out of the affordable finance they desperately need for sustainable development, with sovereign credit ratings often overstating risk and overlooking long-term economic potential, the UN said on Monday.
A credit rating is an assessment of how likely a borrower, such as a government, is to repay its debt on time and in full. For sovereign states, ratings influence how much countries pay to borrow in international markets: the lower the rating, the higher the perceived risk and usually the higher the interest costs.
The current system too often relies on “outdated and incomplete information”, leaving countries unfairly penalised in global capital markets, the deputy UN chief Amina Mohammed told the opening of the UN’s Economic and Social Council, ECOSOC, Special Meeting on Credit Ratings, delivering remarks on behalf of Secretary-General António Guterres.
“Adequate and timely finance is the fuel that drives sustainable development,” the Deputy Secretary-General said, warning that “today that fuel is running perilously low, and it’s getting more costly.”
She pointed to nearly US$1.4 trillion in annual debt servicing costs across developing countries, while more than 3.4 billion people live in countries that spend more on debt interest payments than on health or education.
Mohammed added that global instability is deepening the crisis. Rising fuel and raw material costs linked to conflict and economic volatility are intensifying fiscal pressures and slowing growth, while climate-vulnerable countries continue to face disaster losses without access to affordable recovery financing.
“This is a matter of profound importance,” Mohammed said.
Mohammed also linked the credit ratings debate to wider efforts to reform the global debt architecture and pointed to new steps aimed at giving developing countries a stronger voice in debt discussions.
These include a borrowers’ platform, work on principles for responsible sovereign borrowing and lending, and a UN-led process bringing together debtor and creditor countries, private creditors, international financial institutions, academics and civil society.
She also cited the planned African Credit Rating Agency as an example of efforts to improve data, transparency and risk assessment.
Mohammed urged a major shift in how sovereign ratings are designed, arguing that assessments should capture not only vulnerability, but also opportunity.
“We must transform the mindsets from long-term speculation to long-term investment,” she said, calling for broader, more transparent and forward-looking methodologies that better reflect countries’ real prospects.
Mohammed stressed that affordable borrowing for development can strengthen a country’s future solvency.
Investment in health, education, infrastructure, climate resilience and renewable energy, she said, can generate prosperity, reduce risk and improve economic stability over time.
She also criticised narrow measures of progress, insisting that “GDP tells us the cost of everything and the value of very little.”
Mohammed called for greater accountability from governments, investors and ratings providers alike, alongside stronger data and fairer methodologies.
“It’s time to turn credit ratings from barriers into contributors to long-term finance and sustainable development,” Mohammed said, urging a new approach that helps developing countries secure the financing they need….PACNEWS
PALAU – POSTAL SERVICES: ISLAND TIMES PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 31 Mar 2026
Palau Post Office tightens P.O. box rules to boost security, combat illegal shipments
KOROR, 31 MARCH 2026 (ISLAND TIMES)—The Palau Post Office will enforce new rules limiting the sharing of P.O. boxes and expanding electronic box access starting 01 June 2026.
Officials say the changes aim to strengthen mail security, improve accountability, and modernise services to align with global e-commerce standards.
“We are trying to be as efficient and accessible so the public can be in line with the rest of the world in e-commerce,” said Post Master Santi Asanuma of the new policy that will take effect on 01 June 2026.
The Republic of Palau Postal Service will enforce the new policy restricting the use and sharing of post office boxes in an effort to strengthen mail security, combat illegal shipments and modernize postal operations.
Under the directive, P.O. boxes registered to businesses, government agencies and non-government organisations may only be used for official correspondence. Personal use of those boxes will be prohibited.
The policy also bars individuals 18 and older from sharing P.O. boxes, with limited exceptions for legally married couples and minor children under 18.
Palau Post Office processes packages to customers from Amazon. New policy will restrict who will use post office boxes but policy is getting push back as some question whether the policy is right for Palau.
Postmaster General Santi Asanuma said the changes are driven by longstanding challenges, including lost mail, disputes over shared boxes and concerns about contraband entering the country.
“Before, there were only 2,825 boxes and people were forced to share,” Asanuma said. “Now we have about 5,000 e-boxes, and only a small portion are currently in use. We have the capacity to meet demand.”
The 5,000 e-boxes are already registered in the United States Postal Service System.
Officials said the expanded availability of electronic post office boxes—known as e-boxes—will allow more residents to maintain individual accounts, improving accountability and reducing the number of hands mail passes through before reaching recipients.
Surech Bells, operations manager at the Palau Post Office, said the policy is not expected to increase mail volume or slow operations.
“It’s the same people currently sharing boxes who will now separate,” Bells said. “This does not increase the amount of mail processed or affect the flow.”
Postal officials also cited efforts to digitise services and align with global e-commerce standards as key motivations behind the directive. Asanuma said a more efficient and accessible system will help Palau residents better participate in online commerce while supporting law enforcement efforts to track suspicious shipments.
For short-term visitors, the post office will continue offering general delivery services for up to 90 days. Mail can be addressed to “Koror, Palau 96940, General Delivery,” and collected in person. Those staying longer must apply for a P.O. box.
E-boxes are available for US60 per year, and applications are expected to be offered online.
Despite the stated benefits, the policy has prompted questions and concerns from the public.
Some residents worry about practical requirements tied to employment and education. A Palauan student studying overseas said scholarship applications often require a local P.O. box address, raising concerns about compliance under the new rules.
Another questions the very specific requirement that adults sharing a box number must be legally married. How about partners living together but are not married? Will they be required individually to bring marriage certificate when applying for a box number?
Others questioned whether they must secure a box before applying for jobs that require a mailing address. One resident said she currently uses her parents’ box and is unsure how the new restrictions will affect her application process.
There are also concerns about service reliability. One resident who signed up for an e-box said notifications about incoming mail have been inconsistent.
“If more people sign up, will they still notify us?” she asked.
Postal officials acknowledged the concerns but said the changes are necessary to improve efficiency, security and accountability across the system……PACNEWS
PACNEWS In Focus
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Traditional protection proves more successful for clams in American Samoa
PAGOPAGO, 31 MARCH 2026 (MONGABAY)—For coastal Indigenous communities in American Samoa, giant clams are deeply rooted in fa‘a Sāmoa (the Samoan way of life) and local food systems.
According to the findings of a study published in PeerJ, it is village-based protections like fa‘asao (fishery closures) that have helped conserve giant clams lying in the islands’ shallow water coral reefs. The authors found that the highest clam densities and species are located in remote sites and areas under traditional village enforcement, outperforming federally designated no-take zones on the most populated island.
The authors examined giant clam population trends, clam densities and distributions, and species composition across six islands — Tutuila, Aunuʻu, Ofu, Olosega, Taʻū and Muliāva — from 1994/5 to surveys conducted between 2022-24. While the highly populated island of Tutuila had the lowest clam densities with 83.5 individuals per hectare (33.8 per acre), remote islands like Taʻū and Muliāva showed higher densities up to 812 to 1,166 per hectare (328 to 471 per acre).
On Tutuila, which had multiple types of management zones, subsistence and remote sites had the highest densities of giant clams, followed by remote areas, then village protected areas. Federal no-take sites held the lowest mean density of clams overall on the island.
“By restoring local stewardship, cultural accountability, and respect for customary marine tenure values, community-led systems like fa‘asao have strengthened marine ecosystem conservation through village-based fishery closures,” Dimary Ulberg, an Indigenous Samoan and programme manager of the Community-based Fisheries Management Programme (CBFMP) at the Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources (DMWR), said by email.
Empowering traditional community stewardship, the study suggested, can offer a viable alternative to federal restrictions — especially in areas communities rely on for clam harvesting — while respecting traditional management practices in American Samoa.
“Some of the results were surprising,” Paolo Marra-Biggs, the lead author of the study and a PhD candidate at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, told Mongabay by email.
“Despite the global decline of giant clams, we found that some areas in American Samoa [Tutuila, Taʻū and Muliāva] still supported strong populations, especially where harvest pressure was low or where communities actively managed their reefs,” he said.
The maxima clam (Tridacna maxima) had the most dominant population, while small populations of the fluted giant clam (T. squamosa) and Noah’s giant clam (T. noae) were primarily located in village-managed areas.
Behind the conservation scene
“Many island villages manage their own protected reef areas called fa‘asao, and we saw a strong effect of village stewardship on the conservation of giant clams,” Marra-Biggs said.
Certain nearshore waters are under the jurisdiction of Indigenous Samoan communities through CBFMP — a co-management approach between the village community and the DMWR to protect marine resources. Under the programme, communities establish their own terms and commitment periods for fishery restrictions. Not all village-based management areas are under the CBFMP programme, though.
Aligned with the customary marine tenure values guided by the Samoan governance, Ulberg said villages establish their own closure terms through consensus among matai (village chiefs) and community members.
“They set timelines, species, and fishing gear restrictions that help manage and rebuild fish stocks, habitats, and ecosystems over time while implementing the community’s local and traditional ecological knowledge,” she told Mongabay.
In terms of sustainable conservation impact, she argued that village-based protection can be more effective than federal no-take zones as compliance is culturally internalized, which help encourage long-term behavioral change.
“Village-based closures often reflect the community’s collective values, traditional leadership aligned with subsistence priorities and cultural values,” she told Mongabay. Compliance is thus aligned with culture, which helps encourage long-term behavioral change and community buy-in.
Pressures on clams
As giant clams are large, easy to collect, and have long been an important food source, areas near human populations have historically seen the most pressure from harvesting, said Marra-Biggs.
“Unlike the remote islands, Tutuila — where 98 percent of the residents live with access to roads, harbors, and fishing activity — face harvesting pressure,” he said.
Harvesting often targets the large-sized individuals that contribute the most eggs to the next generation. If too many of them are removed, the population can lose a large portion of its reproductive potential, the authors say.
“Large clams can produce far more eggs than smaller ones,” Marra-Biggs said. “The various species have differences in their growth rates, and age/size of maturity. However, reproductive output increases dramatically as these species get bigger.”
When it comes to conservation, Marra-Biggs said, the reproductive success of giant clams is heavily influenced by their size. For the most common species, such as the maxima clam, individuals generally reach reproductive maturity around 10 to 12 centimeters (3.9 to 4.7 inches) in shell length.
Chief fisheries biologist for the DMWR, Domingo Galgo Ochavillo, said that land-based pollution affecting watershed quality is also a growing risk for clam species, amid existing threats from ocean warming.
“Clams are like corals. When the pollution leads to increased turbidity from sedimentation, it blocks the sunlight that clams require for photosynthesis, hindering their growth.”
Many scientists also raise concerns about the potential impact of deep-sea mining off the coast of American Samoa on marine biodiversity. In January 2026, NOAA’s National Ocean Service announced a project to map critical mineral deposits in the region.
Forging a collaborative effort?
Given these multifaceted pressures, Ochavillo said, a partnership between communities and the government, aligned with community values and practices, is important not only for giant clams but also for sustainable marine conservation.
The village councils that comprise village chiefs have locally managed the resources for generations, he said.
“If they need to know the status of their coral reefs or how their resources are doing, the government steps in to provide grants or scientific and technical support,” he added.
Ulberg said integrating village bylaws into the CBFMP has expanded the enforcement capabilities of the DMWR. Community stewardship and management are currently recognised under the American Samoa Administrative Code Title 24 defining the fishing and community-based fisheries management (CBFM) regulations: Ulberg said these prioritise community conservation while implementing ancestral systems that are embedded in their cultures.
More can be done, according to the authors. They recommend community training and spatially distributed monitoring paired with community engagement as effective in ensuring long-term persistence of giant clam populations.
In 2024, the NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service proposed to list five clam species as endangered and one as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Once finalized, it would lead to prohibitions on import and export while imposing bans on the local harvest of the six species.
A blanket ban on the giant clam harvest, sources said, can undermine community-based resource management that has existed for generations.
“The proposed listing is not really helping the community,” Ochavillo said. “If the species are finalized under ESA, communities say they can’t harvest them for food or earn money from having tourists visit their giant clam nurseries.”
One challenge with giant clams, Marra-Biggs told Mongabay, is that several species look very similar under water, complicating species identification.
“It wasn’t until recently that one species, Tridacna noae, had been discovered in American Samoa.”
Broad regulations in such cases could potentially restrict the harvest of species that are still relatively abundant locally, he said, emphasizing that the ESA could be a powerful conservation tool, but applying it in places with strong cultural fishing traditions can do more harm than good.
Sources emphasise the need for conservation approaches that work alongside local stewardship rather than replacing it.
“Conservation does not always need to start from scratch,” Marra-Biggs said. “In many cases, traditional management systems are already functioning well and supporting them with monitoring, research, and collaboration may be one of the most effective ways to sustain reef resources.”
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Cash for guns in PNG: smart reform or short-term fix?
By Jack Assa
PORT MORESBY, 31 MARCH 2026 (DEVPOLICY.ORG) —Earlier this year, the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, James Marape, called for a crackdown on the use of illegal firearms in the Highlands region.
Following this, the new PNG Police Minister Sir John Pundari announced a government-led National Firearms Amnesty and Buy-back Scheme which started on 27 February and is planned to run until 26 August 2026. The end date will coincide with National Repentance Day, which Papua New Guineans mark with a public holiday in order to devote time to Christian prayer and ask for forgiveness.
The program is now underway, with Enga Province becoming the first to launch the initiative and begin firearm collection. Under this amnesty period, individuals who voluntarily surrender firearms will not be prosecuted. This programme is also said to offer citizens financial incentives to surrender illegal guns in their possession. It intends to reduce the proliferation of firearms, improve community safety and address law and order challenges, particularly in rural areas prone to tribal conflicts and urban centres experiencing armed robbery.
The development has sparked debate, with one opposition member of parliament labelling it “cash for criminals” and a prominent church leader describing it as “not an ideal solution”. Many social media users have voiced concerns on Facebook and cautioned that offering cash could reward criminal behaviour and fail to tackle the root causes of violence in the country.
The fact is that even a modest reduction of firearms through this programme can lower immediate threats and reduce the risk of sudden escalation. The central question, however, is whether this programme represents a credible reform strategy or is largely a short-term fix.
Early research on gun buybacks, mostly from the 1990s, largely finds such programs ineffective at curbing gun violence. One study in the United States found that gun buybacks “have done little to reduce gun crime or firearm-related violence”. Recent research frames gun buybacks in a somewhat mixed but more favourable light. On their own, buybacks may not be effective if the goal is to use them to directly reduce violent crime. But the study shows buybacks can help if they’re part of a broader effort to reduce gun violence.
So what are the smart reforms that PNG should focus on?
Can PNG learn from other countries? Yes, PNG can learn from its closest neighbours, particularly Australia. Following the 1996 Port Arthur massacre, Australia introduced a compulsory gun buyback under the National Firearms Agreement. The agreement established strict licensing and registration requirements, banned semi-automatic weapons and removed roughly one-fifth of civilian-owned guns. More recently, following the Bondi Beach attack, the Albanese Labor Government established another gun buyback scheme. Australia’s use of such schemes rests on a strong enforcement framework, effective border control and comprehensive licensing.
New Zealand implemented a similar programme after the 2019 Christchurch mosque attacks. More than 50,000 firearms were surrendered. While the buyback reduced the number of prohibited weapons, compliance was incomplete and its long-term impact continues to depend on sustained enforcement.
In contrast, evidence from the United States suggests that voluntary gun buyback programmes have shown little measurable impact on reducing firearm homicides or gun-related violence.
Translating these lessons to PNG highlights several challenges. Firearms in PNG are not only tools of criminal activity but also symbols of status and means of self-defence in tribal disputes. Guns have also been used to hijack ballot boxes during elections. Estimates from police commentary suggest firearms are involved in up to 80 percent of serious crimes.
Concerns have also been raised that state security agencies might be a source of illegal firearms and ammunition. Then there are concerns about perverse incentives. Paying for guns might only incentivise the entry of more into the supply chain. Despite these concerns, partial reductions in firearm stocks could still offer benefits. They could reduce immediate threats and signal the government’s commitment to public safety, potentially gaining momentum for deeper reforms. Australia’s experience shows that such programmes are most effective when combined with strong reforms.
For PNG, a gun buyback programme alone will not automatically address the underlying drivers of law and order issues. Lasting impacts are more likely if the government integrates the programme with wider policy and structural reforms, including reviewing and strengthening regulatory frameworks, building the capacity of police and defence forces and consistently enforcing and prosecuting firearm offences and other measures that would instil confidence in the justice and correctional systems.
In addition, experience from Australia highlights the importance of institutions like the Australian Institute of Criminology, which monitors firearm-related trends and outcomes. Similarly, PNG must build systems that continuously generate reliable data on firearm offences and fatalities, while also monitoring the impact of such programmes. These measures should underpin any broader firearm reforms rather than relying on a buyback programme alone. Without these, a cash-for-guns scheme risks being perceived as a short-term fix strategy and not transformative….PACNEWS
Jack Assa is a Lecturer of Public Policy Management at the School of Business and Public Policy at the University of Papua New Guinea.
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
PAVE training strengthening resilience to health impacts of climate change
APIA, 31 MARCH 2026 (SPREP)—Directors, senior Government officials from Health, Climate Change departments and research institutions from the Federated States of Micronesia, Kiribati, Samoa, and Solomon Islands gathered in Apia to strengthen the resilience of their communities to the health impacts of climate change.
The first PAVE – Health and Climate Change Project regional workshop, hosted by the Pacific Climate Change Centre (PCCC) at SPREP’s headquarters in Vailima Samoa, was held from16-20 March 2026. The one-week training was opened by SPREP’s Acting Director General, Easter Chu Shing.
“Pacific Island countries and territories stand at the frontline of extreme weather events, rising temperatures, and changing ecosystems and confronted with the growing health impacts linked to these environmental pressures and climate change extreme risks,” Chu Shing said.
“The PAVE Health and Climate Change has enabled us to access up to AUD 4.8m from the Wellcome Trust focused on generation of evidence in the health sector on climate change, building capacity and development of policy tools to respond to climate change in the health sector.”
The ‘Pacific Action to enhance the Visibility of Evidence on Health and Climate Impacts’ is a three-year regional initiative birthed from a partnership between the PCCC hosted at the SPREP and the University of Melbourne.
Associate Professor Rebecca Patrick, of The University of Melbourne, said PAVE-Health is a flagship project in the University of Melbourne’s ongoing collaboration with PCCC, SPREP and partner organisations in FSM, Kiribati, Samoa and Solomon Islands.
“We view the University’s role in this PAVE‑Health regional workshop as helping to strengthen and elevate health considerations —turning climate and health expertise into practical tools, national training, and evidence that supports policy decisions and improved health outcomes across the region,” she said.
The workshop in Samoa provided Master Trainers with the chance to share what works in training delivery in-country, and their implementation experiences with climate and health training, assessment and, or policy design.
The gathering was also an opportunity for country teams to meet with project staff to plan for the forthcoming national-level trainings and the community-level research activities scheduled for 2026. This forms a critical milestone in the implementation of activities at the national level where it mattes the most.
“I encourage all participants over the cause of this week’s workshop to engage openly, share your experiences, and explore opportunities for collaboration,” added Chu Shing. “The diversity of expertise in this room is fundamental as you progress towards implementation in your respective countries.”
SPREP’s Acting Director General acknowledged the support of SPREP member countries and the team from the Climate Futures at the University of Melbourne present in Samoa for the training.
PAVE – Health aims to upskill policymakers, researchers, and health practitioners to draw attention to and reduce climate-related health impacts across the Federated States of Micronesia, Kiribati, Samoa and Solomon Islands….PACNEWS