In this bulletin:
1. PACIFIC — Tuvalu to launch historic first National Ocean Policy on World Ocean Day
2. PACIFIC — Tonga to launch National Ocean Policy in 2026
3. PACIFIC — Palau pushes blue economy at Melanesia Ocean Summit
4. PACIFIC — Marshall Islands stresses community role in ocean protection
5. PACIFIC — FSM special envoy urges regional unity at Melanesian Ocean Summit
6. PACIFIC — Fiji, PNG leaders unite on Oceans, security and regional cooperation
7. PAC — Tuvalu, Timor-Leste push Pacific voice on Climate and Ocean issues
8. PNG — Fiji PM Rabuka conferred the Grand Companion of the order of Logohu in PNG
9. UK — Fiji-born woman elected to Scottish Parliament
10. PACNEWS BIZ — World Bank urges Fiji to protect people, not fuel prices
11. PACNEWS BIZ — X-rated sites to be blocked in PNG, Nicta given 30 days to block harmful internet content
12. PACNEWS BIZ — Fiji Airways, WestJet launch codeshare partnership
13. PACNEWS BIZ — Starlink to set up PNG office
14. PACNEWS IN FOCUS — Rebuilding Lives and Restoring Childhood in Solomon Islands
15. PACNEWS DIGEST — Cook Islands launches Upper-Air Sounding Station for a resilient future
16. PACNEWS DIGEST — Subregions as the backbone of Asia-Pacific cooperation
PACIFIC – OCEAN SUMMIT: POST COURIER PACNEWS 2: Wed 13 May 2026
Tuvalu to launch historic first National Ocean Policy on World Ocean Day
PORT MORESBY, 13 MAY 2026 (POST COURIER) — Tuvalu Prime Minister Feleti Teo has announced his nation is finalising its first-ever National Ocean Policy, with plans to officially launch the framework on 08 June 2026 to coincide with World Ocean Day.
The Prime Minister described the policy as a national compass intended to govern the country’s vast maritime territory and align local efforts with global environmental goals.
The policy is the result of an extensive, inclusive consultation process supported by international partners, including the Asian Development Bank, National Geographic Pristine Seas, and the Wildlife Conservation Society.
“Tuvalu firmly believes that strong ocean movements begin with clear national directions backed by science, regional cooperation, and community ownership,” the Prime Minister stated.
The initiative has also led to the creation of a dedicated Ocean Unit tasked with overseeing the policy’s implementation across Tuvalu’s 750,000 square kilometer Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
A formal commitment to establish Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) across all eight outer islands, aiming to protect 30 percent of coastal habitats.
Prime Minister reaffirming that all archipelagic waters and territorial seas remain closed to commercial fishing.
Utilising data from a major National Geographic scientific expedition conducted last year to inform future conservation decisions.
The Prime Minister emphasised that Pacific nations are not passive bystanders to the decline of ocean health.
He threw Tuvalu’s full support behind the Melanesian Ocean Corridor of Resolutions, calling for a unified regional secretariat and a roadmap backed by sustainable financing.
“The Pacific Ocean connects all of us,” he said.
“Its future will depend on the courage of our leadership today and the strength of our collective action tomorrow.”
PM Teo also announced that a documentary showcasing Tuvalu’s marine biodiversity and traditional ocean stewardship is expected to premiere later this year, further elevating the nation’s environmental efforts on the global stage…. PACNEWS
PACIFIC – OCEAN SUMMIT: POST COURIER PACNEWS 2: Wed 13 May 2026
Tonga to launch National Ocean Policy in 2026
PORT MORESBY, 13 MAY 2026 (POST COURIER) — Tonga will launch its first National Ocean Policy this year, Prime Minister Lord Fatafehi Fakafanua announced at the Melanesian Ocean Summit.
He said the policy will put into action the Ocean Management Act of 2025, which he called “a landmark achievement in our national history.”
The new policy sets a ten‑year vision with targets of 30 percent protection and 100 percent sustainable management of Tonga’s waters.
Fakafanua explained that Tonga’s approach is to value ecosystems while they are alive and thriving.
“Tonga will value nature’s contribution while it’s living, while it’s thriving,” he told delegates.
He highlighted whales as central to this vision, noting: “Tonga estimates the value of one living whale is at US$2 million, and they are the great fertilisers of our oceans.”
He pledged support for a whale corridor and said Tonga is favourable to granting whales legal personhood.
Fakafanua stressed that regional cooperation is essential, as ocean currents, migratory species, and tuna stocks connect Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia.
“Our ocean connects us, it doesn’t divide us. Together we can secure a resilient, sustainable and prosperous blue Pacific for the generations to come,” he said…. PACNEWS
PACIFIC – OCEAN SUMMIT: POST COURIER PACNEWS 2: Wed 13 May 2026
Palau pushes blue economy at Melanesia Ocean Summit
PORT MORESBY, 13 MAY 2026 (POST COURIER) — Palau’s Special Envoy of the President, Steven Victor, told the Melanesia Ocean Summit underway in Port Moresby that Pacific nations must harness ocean resources to drive prosperity, stressing that conservation must go hand‑in‑hand with economic growth.
“It is about financing our transition to a sustainable blue economy and ensuring that the wealth of our resources stays within our islands,” he said.
Victor highlighted Palau’s 20‑year migration channels programme as proof that local action can deliver regional success, while urging nations to adopt the Unclogging Pacific Prosperity Plan.
The plan calls for managing 100 percent of Pacific waters sustainably, with 30 percent under high protection, while building scientific and financial capacity to control their own resources.
He pointed to East New Britain’s initiative as an example of a transition to a blue economy to retain benefits in the Pacific and reaffirmed Palau’s leadership as the first nation to ratify the High Seas Treaty.
“The health of our waters depends on the health of the islands,” he said, urging others to join.
The envoy concluded that economic resilience and ocean stewardship must advance together, so Pacific nations can secure livelihoods and long‑term prosperity for their people…. PACNEWS
PACIFIC – OCEAN SUMMIT: POST COURIER PACNEWS 2: Wed 13 May 2026
Marshall Islands stresses community role in ocean protection
PORT MORESBY, 13 MAY 2026 (POST COURIER) — The Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) has told the Melanesian Oceans Summit that conservation must be rooted in communities and guided by traditional knowledge.
Speaking on behalf of President Dr Hilda Heine, the Special Envoy said lessons from the Micronesian challenge show that protected areas are strongest when local people lead.
“Conservation succeeds when communities own it. Traditional knowledge and science are not competing systems, but complementary ways of caring for the same ocean,” he said.
He said the National Conservation Area Framework brings together governments, traditional leaders, women, youth, fishers, and scientists to decide how best to manage resources, linking community stewardship with national systems and global commitments.
He added that Melanesia’s vision for reserves, research hubs, and sustainable fisheries reflects the same principle.
“Ocean protection must be community‑rooted, legally grounded, scientifically informed, culturally respectful, and practically financed,” he said…. PACNEWS
PACIFIC – OCEAN SUMMIT: POST COURIER PACNEWS 2: Wed 13 May 2026
FSM special envoy urges regional unity at Melanesian Ocean Summit
PORT MORESBY, 13 MAY 2026 (POST COURIER) — Special Envoy for the President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Kandhi Elieisar, addressed regional leaders at the Melanesian Ocean Summit Tuesday, calling for urgent, science-based action to protect the Pacific’s most vital resource.
Representing President Wesley W. Simina, Elieisar opened his remarks by thanking Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister James Marape for hosting this gathering.
The Envoy emphasised that for island communities, the ocean is more than just a resource; it is a source of food, income, and cultural identity.
“It is indeed the lifeblood of our island communities,” he stated, “and is fundamental to our sovereignty.”
However, he issued a stark warning regarding the deteriorating health of the Pacific.
He highlights several “unprecedented challenges,” including: The region’s primary security threat. Over 150 million metric tons of plastic currently contaminate the seas.
Elieisar added that nearly 90 percent of global fish stocks are fished at or beyond sustainable limits.
“There is simply no healthy planet without a healthy ocean,” Elieisar remarked, noting that human activity remains the chief cause of this decline.
Representing a “big ocean state,” the FSM Envoy urged Pacific nations to leverage their collective strength.
He highlighted the Micronesia Challenge 2030 as a flagship framework for translating global biodiversity goals such as the “30×30” initiative—into concrete local results.
Elieisar also called for the swift ratification of the BBNJ Treaty (Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction), stressing that developing states must have fair access to green technology and benefit-sharing.
The Envoy concluded by reminding the summit that ocean governance is a generational responsibility.
“It is not so much that we inherit the ocean from our ancestors,” he concluded, “but that we borrow it from our children.”
The summit continues this week, with leaders expected to further discuss regional cooperation and shared solutions for a resilient Pacific continent…. PACNEWS
PACIFIC – DIPLOMACY: FIJI GOVT PACNEWS 2: Tue 12 May 2026
Fiji, PNG leaders unite on Oceans, security and regional cooperation
PORT MORESBY, 13 MAY 2026 (FIJI GOVT) —- Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has met with his Papua New Guinea counterpart, James Marape on the margins of the inaugural Melanesian Ocean Summit at APEC Haus, Port Moresby.
The meeting reaffirmed the strong and enduring partnership between Fiji and Papua New Guinea.
Prime Minister Rabuka thanked Prime Minister Marape and the Government and people of Papua New Guinea for convening the Summit, describing the initiative as both timely and critical given the increasing importance of Pacific leadership in safeguarding the region’s ocean resources.
During the meeting, the two leaders reflected on the deep historical, cultural and people-to-people ties shared between Fiji and Papua New Guinea, dating back to the early work of Fijian missionaries in Papua New Guinea and the sacrifice of Fijian soldiers during World War II in Bougainville.
Prime Minister Rabuka acknowledged Papua New Guinea’s continued support following Fiji’s decision to reopen its diplomatic mission in Port Moresby in 2024, noting that the re-establishment of resident diplomatic representation had created renewed opportunities for cooperation across a range of sectors.
The two leaders also discussed progress on the proposed Fiji–Papua New Guinea Memorandum of Understanding aimed at expanding bilateral cooperation.
Rabuka also briefed Prime Minister Marape on Fiji’s ongoing efforts to repatriate the remains of Fiji’s only Victoria Cross recipient, the late Corporal Sefanaia Sukanaivalu VC, who is buried at the Bitapaka War Cemetery in Rabaul, East New Britain.
He acknowledged the cooperation of Papua New Guinea authorities and expressed hope that the process with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission could be progressed further in the coming months.
On economic cooperation, the two leaders discussed growing trade and investment opportunities between the two countries.
They also discussed regional energy security and the importance of collective approaches to addressing the impacts of ongoing global conflicts on Pacific economies.
Prime Minister Rabuka thanked Prime Minister Marape for Papua New Guinea’s continued support for Fiji’s proposed Ocean of Peace Declaration and sought support for a regional political statement calling for global peace amid rising geopolitical tensions and the emerging regional energy crisis.
The two leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening Melanesian solidarity and advancing cooperation for the collective prosperity, security and resilience of the Pacific region…. PACNEWS
PAC – DIPLOMACY: PACNEWS/TUVALU GOVT PACNEWS 2: Wed 13 May 2026
Tuvalu, Timor-Leste push Pacific voice on Climate and Ocean issues
PORT MORESBY, 13 MAY 2026 (PACNEWS/TUVALU GOVT) — Tuvalu Prime Minister Feleti Teo and Timor Leste President José Manuel Ramos-Horta have reaffirmed closer cooperation on climate change, ocean governance and global representation during a bilateral meeting on the margins of the Melanesian Ocean Summit 2026 in Port Moresby.
The meeting highlighted the growing relationship between Tuvalu and Timor-Leste, with both leaders discussing shared regional and international priorities, including cooperation within the United Nations system.
Prime Minister Teo and President Ramos-Horta also stressed the need for fair participation of all UN member states in multilateral processes, particularly small and vulnerable nations that are often underrepresented in global decision-making.
Prime Minister Teo also briefed President Ramos-Horta on Tuvalu’s preparations for its Pre-COP Leaders side event, outlining its objectives and significance as Tuvalu continues to push for stronger Pacific leadership and greater ambition on the global climate agenda…. PACNEWS
PNG – DIPLOMACY: FIJI GOVT PACNEWS 2: Wed 13 May 2026
Fiji PM Rabuka conferred the Grand Companion of the order of Logohu in PNG
PORT MORESBY, 13 MAY 2026 (FIJI GOVT) — Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka was conferred the Grand Companion of the Order of Logohu by the Governor General of Papua New Guinea, Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae at the State House Tuesday.
This prestigious national honour recognises the Prime Minister’s distinguished service in promoting and strengthening the close bilateral relations between Fiji and Papua New Guinea, and for his outstanding leadership in advancing regional cooperation among Pacific nations.
In receiving the honour, Prime Minister Rabuka expressed his sincere gratitude to the Government and people of Papua New Guinea, particularly Prime Minister James Marape for the recognition and the warm hospitality extended to him and the Fiji delegation.
Prime Minister Rabuka said the award reflected the enduring friendship, shared Melanesian heritage, and longstanding partnership between Fiji and Papua New Guinea.
“This honour is not mine alone, but one shared with the chiefs and the people of Fiji and all those who continue to work towards a stronger and more united Pacific family,” Prime Minister Rabuka said.
He further reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Papua New Guinea and fellow Pacific Island nations on key regional priorities including ocean governance, climate resilience, security, trade, and sustainable development.
The Order of Logohu is among Papua New Guinea’s highest national honours and recognises individuals who have rendered distinguished service to the nation and the wider region…. PACNEWS
UK – POLITICS: FIJI TIMES PACNEWS 2: Wed 13 May 2026
Fiji-born woman elected to Scottish Parliament
EDINBURGH, 13 MAY 2026 (FIJI TIMES) — A woman born and raised in Fiji is set to make history this week when she is formally sworn in as a Member of the Scottish Parliament.
Simita Kumar, 38, who attended Samabula Primary School and Dudley High School, was elected on 07 May as the Scottish National Party Member of the Scottish Parliament for Edinburgh Southwestern.
She secured victory with 11,727 votes during the 2026 Scottish Parliament election and is expected to take her oath at Holyrood in Edinburgh on Thursday.
Kumar is believed to be the first Fiji-born person to be sworn in as a member of any parliament in the United Kingdom.
Born in Suva and raised in Samabula, Kumar moved to Glasgow in 2005 with her parents, Ajay and Sarita Kumar, and her younger sister.
After settling in Scotland, she built a career in public service, working with NHS Lothian, Public Health Scotland and several children’s charities.
Her entry into politics followed years of community work and advocacy.
In 2022, she was elected as a City of Edinburgh councillor for Southside/Newington and later became leader of the SNP group on the council — becoming the first person of colour to lead a political party group in Edinburgh’s history.
Colleagues within the SNP have described her as a rising figure in Scottish politics.
During her election night speech, Ms Kumar called for greater civility in politics.
“Let kindness and civility guide us, even in disagreement,” she said.
Her mother, Sarita Kumar, said the family was overwhelmed with pride.
“This is an extraordinary achievement, and we could not be more proud of her,” she said.
Kumar’s journey from Samabula to the Scottish Parliament is being celebrated by many within the Fijian diaspora, with supporters describing her achievement as a milestone for Fiji-born communities living abroad…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
FIJI – IRAN CRISIS/FUEL PRICE: FIJI SUN PACNEWS BIZ: Wed 13 May 2026
World Bank urges Fiji to protect people, not fuel prices
SUVA, 13 MAY 2026 (FIJI SUN) — As fuel prices continue to rise, the World Bank is urging Pacific governments, including Fiji, to protect vulnerable families through targeted social support instead of costly fuel subsidies.
Speaking at the launch of the Pacific Economic Update at the World Bank Group Office in Suva Tuesday, Lead Economist for the Pacific Ralph Van Doorn said broad fuel subsidies placed heavy pressure on government finances and were not the best long-term solution.
“Targeted support – where we protect people, we don’t protect prices,” Senior Economist Ekaterine Vashakmadze said.
She said allowing fuel prices to reflect real market costs encouraged households and businesses to reduce consumption and invest in alternative energy sources, while broad subsidies weakened that incentive.
Van Doorn said Fiji was in a stronger position than many Pacific neighbours because about half of its electricity generation came from renewable energy sources.
He said Fiji and Samoa were currently the only Pacific countries generating around 50 percent of electricity from renewables, while many other island nations remained heavily dependent on diesel for up to 90 percent of their power supply.
However, he warned Fiji’s role as a regional fuel shipment hub for countries including Tonga, Samoa and the Cook Islands also made it vulnerable to global supply disruptions.
Van Doorn said Fiji’s relatively developed social protection system provided Government with better tools to support struggling households compared with some other Pacific nations.
He said governments with stronger social support systems were already adjusting fuel prices while directing assistance towards those most affected by rising living costs.
The World Bank said any relief measures should remain temporary, carefully targeted and designed to avoid putting further pressure on already limited government finances…. PACNEWS
PNG – EX RATED SITES: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS BIZ: Wed 13 May 2026
X-rated sites to be blocked in PNG, Nicta given 30 days to block harmful internet content
PORT MORESBY, 13 MAY 2026 (THE NATIONAL) —The Papua New Guinea National Information and Communications Technology (Nicta) has been given 30 days to block “unsuitable internet content harmful to minors and vulnerable groups”.
Acting Information and Communications Technology Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr said: “I am extremely concerned that implementation has not been fully carried out.
“Nicta, in coordination with the Office of Censorship, is now required within 30 days to ensure all identified unsuitable websites, services, and related online content harmful to minors and vulnerable groups are comprehensively blocked across licensed internet service providers.”
He wants to see the National Executive Council (NEC) decision (265/2023) fully enforced. The NEC made the decision in September 2023.
The 30-day directive is from Friday, 08 May.
Tsiamalili said that it included stronger action against pornography, violent content, harmful material, and other unsuitable online services.
“I have also directed that this process must be transparent, with clear public accountability to maintain trust,” he said.
“To the public, please be assured that this is not about arbitrary censorship.
“This is about protecting children, vulnerable groups, and strengthening cyber safety in our country.
“The Government’s directive is clear: after more than two years, full implementation must now be delivered.”
The Cybercrime Code Act 2016 and Publication Censorship Classification Act 1989 make it illegal to produce, distribute, or possess pornography in PNG.
In 2024, Nicta was told to filter more than 1,400 websites listed as “unsuitable”.
The unsuitable content includes explicit sex, child pornography, homosexuality and lesbianism.
Chief censor Jim Abani said then that they had also set up a classification content centre at the Censorship Office to work with Nicta and other key stakeholders.
“The centre is created for monitoring online environment and we are using guidelines to classify the internet protocol (IP) addresses or domain,” he said.
Information and Communications Technology Minister Timothy Masiu said the department had identified 1,000 websites which had been filtered.
“We all know that X-rated films and publications are automatically refused classification in the country,” he said.
Abani said he had received a letter from Nicta informing the Internet Service Providers (ISP) to take appropriate steps to implementing the Government’s policy decision.
“We are interested in indecent exposure of illicit content that is harmful to PNG citizens and its vulnerable individuals,” he said.
Abani said 23 ISPs were identified by Nicta and the listing given to the Censorship Office to monitor if they had taken social obligations to do their part at the industrial level.
Abani said DataCo and Telikom PNG had been working with the Censorship Office to identify the websites that had unsuitable content…. PACNEWS
FIJI – AIRLINE: FIJI TIMES PACNEWS BIZ: Wed 13 May 2026
Fiji Airways, WestJet launch codeshare partnership
NADI, 13 MAY 2026 (FIJI TIMES) — Fiji Airways and WestJet have announced a new codeshare partnership aimed at strengthening travel links between Canada and the South Pacific.
The agreement will allow passengers to travel across both airlines’ networks under a single booking, improving connectivity between Canada, Fiji and destinations throughout the Pacific region.
Under the arrangement, Fiji Airways will place its “FJ” code on WestJet domestic services to Canadian cities including Toronto, Edmonton, Winnipeg and Halifax, providing smoother connections to Fiji Airways international flights through North American gateways.
In return, WestJet will place its “WS” code on Fiji Airways flights between Vancouver and Nadi, as well as onward services to Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington in New Zealand.
Fiji Airways managing director and chief executive officer Paul Scurrah said the partnership marked an important step in expanding Fiji’s international connectivity.
“Canada represents a growing and high-value market for Fiji and the wider Pacific,” Scurrah said.
“This partnership with WestJet makes it easier than ever for Canadian travellers to experience the warmth, culture and natural beauty of Fiji, while also supporting increased visitor flows into our region.”
The partnership comes as Fiji Airways expands its Vancouver operations. From June 18, the airline will operate three weekly year-round flights between Nadi and Vancouver every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
From September 08, Fiji Airways will also introduce the Airbus A350 on all Vancouver services, increase passenger capacity and enhance onboard services.
WestJet Group executive vice-president and chief commercial officer John Weatherill said the agreement would create smoother travel experiences for passengers across both networks.
Passenger demand between Canada and Fiji has continued to grow, with traffic on the route increasing by 19 percent year-on-year. Fiji Airways said the partnership was expected to further strengthen access to the Canadian market while supporting tourism and regional connectivity across the Pacific…. PACNEWS
PNG – STARLINK: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS BIZ: Wed 13 May 2026
Starlink to set up PNG office
PORT MORESBY, 13 MAY 2026 (THE NATIONAL) — Starlink will set up its office in Papua New Guinea within 12 months from the date its operating licence was issued, under the licensing conditions set by the National Information and Communications Technology Authority (Nicta).
Nicta chief executive officer Lume Polume said the requirement for a local office was part of the regulator’s standard compliance framework.
It ensured that Starlink operated within Papua New Guinea’s legal and consumer protection environment once services were fully rolled out.
According to Polume, Starlink’s entry into the country was part of a regulatory approach to improve national connectivity, particularly in rural and under-served areas where traditional telecom infrastructure faces limitations.
“The licensing allows Starlink to operate across different service segments, including business-to-business, business-to-consumer, NGO, and government services,” he said.
“Starlink provides a virtual infrastructure, allowing existing telecom operators and service providers facing coverage issues or tower issues can purchase capacity and extend connectivity through satellite links.
“It will complement existing networks operated by providers such as Telikom, Digicel, and others.”
Polume also said the Universal Access Service programme remained a key government policy instrument to connect the unconnected.
“Under the programme, satellite terminals can be deployed in remote schools and health centres, enabling services such as remote education and telemedicine with real-time consultations and procedures supported by high-speed connectivity,” he said.
“The public policy in telecommunications is not one-size-fits-all, so while new entrants may impact existing operators, government manages both benefits and market adjustments.”
Polume said all other non-telecommunications matters would be handled by the relevant authorities as Starlink progressed toward full local establishment within the 12-month period…. 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
Rebuilding Lives and Restoring Childhood in Solomon Islands
From lifesaving care to safe learning spaces, UNICEF is working with partners to provide vital support for 67,000 children at risk in the aftermath of tropical cyclone Maila.
By Jared Koli
HONIARA, 13 FEBRUARY 2026 (UNICEF) — On the 7th of April, Tropical Cyclone Maila reached peak intensity in the Solomon Islands with catastrophic force.
Rapidly intensifying from a Category 4 to a Category 5 system, the cyclone left a trail of destruction across Western, Choiseul, and Isabel Provinces, as the most powerful tropical cyclone to have ever affected those provinces.
Entire communities were battered, 161 communities impacted, livelihoods destroyed, and families are now struggling to recover in the aftermath of one of the most powerful storms to strike the country.
Homes were flattened. 84 schools were affected. 21 health care facilities were affected. For thousands of children, daily life was suddenly disrupted.
Across the affected provinces, an estimated 150,000 people, including 67,000 children, are now exposed to heightened humanitarian risks.
UNICEF is supporting the government response in Western and Choiseul Provinces to reach those families and children most in need.
Where homes once stood
In Nusa Simbo, Western Province, the destruction is immediate and visible.
Entire houses have been reduced to debris. Roofs are gone. Walls lie scattered across the ground. What remains are the outlines of homes and the memories they once held.
For families here, rebuilding is not just about structures, it is about starting again.
Health services under strain
At Lengana, the local Tumbi Rural Health Centre tells a stark story.
Roofs ripped away. Medical supplies soaked and ruined. Life‑saving equipment left exposed.
Across the affected areas, health facilities have been damaged or forced to operate with bare essentials—cutting off basic care for thousands of women and children.
Yet even now, health workers refuse to stop. They are reaching patients wherever they can, determined to keep care going.
Children learning uncertainty
At Nusa Simbo Primary School, the impact on education is clear.
Classroom roofs have been blown away. Books and learning materials lie scattered across floors. Weeks after the cyclone, many schools remain closed.
For children, the disruption goes beyond education—it affects their sense of normalcy and safety.
Across the three affected provinces, dozens of schools have been damaged, affecting thousands of students.
Water: a growing concern
With water systems damaged, safe drinking water has become scarce.
In Simbo, families now rely heavily on rainwater. At the same time, cases of diarrhoea are beginning to emerge—an early warning of potential outbreaks. Out of the 54 water points in Simbo Island, 39 have been damaged by the cyclone.
UNICEF and partners are supporting communities with water filtration buckets and hygiene promotion, helping families access clean water and reduce the risk of disease.
Food insecurity and rising malnutrition risks
For many families, food is running out. Malnutrition risks are rising.
For many families, food gardens, their main source of nutrition—have been destroyed. Mothers describe cassava crops rotting underground, lost when the cyclone struck with no time to prepare. Precious food supplies were washed away.
Young children are now the most vulnerable.
3-year-old Douglas feeds on the life‑saving therapeutic food—critical support for children at risk of malnutrition. Nearby, children quietly eat micronutrient powders, small packets that have become vital lifelines in the absence of regular meals.
UNICEF is supporting Government medical response teams with essential nutrition supplies to help children survive and recover.
A Landscape Stripped Bare
Tropical Cyclone Maila left more than damaged homes on Simbo Island—it tore through the land itself. Hillsides once covered in green now stand dry and exposed, with trees uprooted and vegetation lost.
For communities, this is not just environmental damage. Sago leaves, essential for roofing and walls, have been wiped out. Leaders say it could take years before these materials return, slowing recovery for families already rebuilding. The storm has passed, but its impact remains—etched into the land and the long road ahead.
Working together to rebuild learning spaces
In Choiseul Province, classrooms were destroyed, routines were broken, and safe spaces for children destroyed. For many families, recovery meant rebuilding shelter. But for children, the loss of learning and protection left a quieter, deeper impact.
On the ground, recovery is a shared effort.
UNICEF staff and partners worked together under the heat of the sun, assembling tent tarpaulin materials piece by piece to erect a temporary learning space for children.
In Saqigae, South Choiseul, one of the hardest-hit communities, UNICEF and Save the Children began by listening.
Children gathered quietly inside a community space, sharing their experiences in the days after the cyclone.
Across affected provinces, UNICEF has supported emergency education for more than 1,300 children and provided essential supplies to help restore basic services.
A learning space rises again
Soon, the structure stands complete.
White canvas walls rise against the landscape, marked with the UNICEF logo, —a sign that support has arrived, and that children will have a place to learn again.
As final touches are made, children help UNICEF Child Protection Officer, Sonya with the final touches.
For many, this is the first sign that normal life may slowly return.
Back to learning, back to routine
Inside the temporary learning space, children sit together on the floor.
Some are quiet. Others begin to engage. Slowly, the space fills with movement, voices and the familiar rhythm of learning.
Beyond education, these spaces also provide emotional support. Through sessions delivered by community facilitators and pikinini workers trained by Save the Children with technical support from UNICEF, children receive psychological first aid, helping them process fear, loss and uncertainty.
Education Supplies for Learning Continuity
At Ranadi Harbour in Honiara, education supplies are being loaded onto the landing vessel Fair King, ready to support more children and families in Western Province with essential education supplies including temporary learning spaces, teaching materials and learning resources.
The shipment follows the widespread destruction of schools and disruption to learning caused by Category 5 Tropical Cyclone Maila, which affected 84 pre-primary, primary and secondary schools across Western and Choiseul Provinces. Working alongside the Solomon Islands Government, UNICEF is supporting efforts to help children safely return to learning and restore a sense of routine and stability during recovery. …. PACNEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Cook Islands launches Upper-Air Sounding Station for a resilient future
RAROTONGA, 13 MAY 2026 (SPREP) — Marking a new era in the history of Cook Islands Meteorology, the national Service launched its Upper-Air Sounding Station as part of its Weather Observation Programme.
This will provide essential atmospheric data that enhances weather forecasting, improves early warnings for severe weather, supports aviation safety and contributes to climate monitoring at national, regional and global levels.
“This is a milestone for our country, not only in terms of infrastructure, but in our continuing journey to strengthen climate resilience, scientific capability and early warning systems for the Cook Islands and the wider Pacific region,” said Albert Nicholas, Deputy Prime Minister of the Cook Islands as he launched the new building and programme.
“As we all know the Cook Islands is on the frontline of climate change, extreme weather events, changing rainfall patterns and increasing climate variability that poses real and ongoing risks to our people, our environment and our economy. In this context access to accurate, timely and high quality meteorological and climate data is absolutely critical.”
Partnerships for Cook Islands and Pacific resilience was on demonstration today. The Upper-Air Sounding Station was funded through the Enhancing Climate Information and Knowledge Services for Resilience in five Island Countries of the Pacific Ocean Project (CIS-Pac5) funded by the Green Climate Fund, implemented by UNEP and executed by the Governments of Cook Islands, Palau, Republic of the Marshall Islands and Tuvalu.
The installation of the equipment and capacity building of the CIMS staff to carry out the Upper Air Weather Observation Programme was supported by MetService New Zealand.
“This is important for the resilience of the Cook Islands, but it also feeds into the global models for numerical weather protection. It represents a shift from the Cook Islands as being a recipient of data to a provider of climate data and information,” said Jochem Zoetelief Head, Climate Early Warning and Capacity Building Unit, UNEP.
“I think everyone in the Cook Islands should be very proud of this because it sends an important message to the world about the commitment of the Pacific region and the importance of investing in data and knowledge services.”
Special mention was made by the former, and current Directors of the Cook Islands Meteorological Service at the launch of the commitment and hard work of the staff of the Cook Islands Meteorological Service – a twenty-four hour, seven days a week – service that strives to ensure the safety of the Cook Islands people.
This, and the achievement by the Cook Islands through the support of partners, was echoed by the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), home of the Climate Services Information Programme and the Pacific Meteorological Desk and Partnership.
“We commend the Cook Islands Meteorological Service for their bold step forward for a resilient Cook Islands, and Pacific,” said Jope Davetanivalu, Director of Environmental Governance of SPREP.
“We all know the importance of data in helping to make informed decisions – this launch and work of the Cook Islands Meteorological Service with gathering this upper-air data is significant. Congratulations Cook Islands and your partners in making this happen; this will bring us closer to a resilient Cook Islands and Pacific. We look forward to our continued relationship with you on this journey.”
The launch of the Upper-Air Sounding Station was held at the Cook Islands Meteorological Service on 8 May 2026.It was funded through the Enhancing Climate Information and Knowledge Services for Resilience in five Island Countries of the Pacific Ocean Project (CIS-Pac5) funded by the Green Climate Fund, implemented by UNEP and executed by the Governments of Cook Islands, Palau, Republic of the Marshall Islands and Tuvalu. The installation of the equipment and capacity building of the CIMS staff to carry out the Upper Air Weather Observation Programme was supported by MetService New Zealand…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Subregions as the backbone of Asia-Pacific cooperation
By Shombi Sharp, Mikiko Tanaka, Ganbold, Baasanjav, Andie Fong Toy, Emelie Pettersson
BANGKOK, 13 MAY 2026 (UNESCAP)- — The Asia-Pacific region is often described as one of the most dynamic in the world, marked by rapid economic expansion, deepening trade links and accelerating digital transformation.
Yet beneath this momentum lies diversity. Countries differ widely in terms of income levels, geography, institutional capacity and exposure to risks, from climate-vulnerable small island developing States to large, fast-growing economies navigating complex structural transitions.
This diversity shapes how development unfolds across the region and highlights why broad regional approaches are not always sufficient. As Asia and the Pacific continues to expand economically and strategically, there is a growing need for cooperation models that are more tailored, flexible and responsive to grounded realities.
A regional approach to sustainable development
ESCAP is the United Nations’ regional development arm for Asia and the Pacific, with a mandate to support member States in advancing inclusive, resilient and sustainable development. The work of ESCAP is grounded in addressing interconnected challenges that transcend borders, including inequality, climate change, environmental sustainability, digital divides and economic resilience.
As highlighted in the Asia and the Pacific SDG Progress Report 2026, progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals remains uneven, with many countries facing overlapping vulnerabilities. ESCAP therefore serves not only as a convening platform but also as a bridge, linking global commitments with regional priorities and translating them into actionable national strategies. Its role is particularly important in fostering policy coherence and enabling collaboration across diverse national and subregional contexts.
Subregional action in focus
This underscores the importance of subregional cooperation. Facilitated by its network of subregional offices (SROs), ESCAP collaborates with organisations, such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation, the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, the Pacific Islands Forum and the network of Pacific intergovernmental organisations, as well as others including the Eurasian Economic Commission and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.
These partnerships allow regional frameworks to be adapted and implemented in ways that reflect subregional and national priorities. Subregional organisations are often well positioned to address transboundary challenges such as energy connectivity, transport corridors, disaster risk reduction and digital integration.
ESCAP’s five SROs cover the Pacific out of Suva, Fiji; South and South-West Asia from New Delhi, India; East and North-East Asia in Incheon, Republic of Korea; North and Central Asia in Almaty, Kazakhstan and South-East Asia in Bangkok, Thailand. They connect regional policy discussions with subregional and country-level implementation, ensuring that global and regional commitments are translated into practical solutions.
For instance, engagement with Pacific partners emphasises climate resilience and sustainability, while collaboration in South and South-West Asia focuses on trade, transport and energy connectivity and women’s digital empowerment. In South-East Asia, cooperation with ASEAN supports regional integration and digital transformation. Across all subregions, these relationships enable joint programming, knowledge sharing and coordinated responses to emerging risks, strengthening the overall coherence of regional development efforts.
Advancing targeted collaboration
This growing emphasis on subregional perspectives was evident at the eighty-second session of the Commission. The dedicated agenda item on subregional perspectives highlighted the urgency of addressing shared challenges, ranging from inequality and demographic shifts to climate risks, while also recognising the opportunities for mutual learning and collective action.
Building on this, a side event on digital innovation explored how cooperation among subregional organisations and ESCAP can address emerging technologies to support inclusive and age-responsive development, echoing findings from earlier ESCAP analyses that underscore both the opportunities and persistent digital divides across subregions.
These discussions were deepened during a facilitated exchange with heads of subregional organisations, where the focus shifted toward practical collaboration. It also underscored the role of ESCAP as a convening platform that brings together diverse subregional actors to foster dialogue, build trust and identify areas for joint action.
Establishing a dedicated platform
Since the introduction of a dedicated subregional agenda item at the Commission session in 2019, engagement has steadily evolved, first through dialogue, then through more interactive formats such as side events and now through focused discussions. These steps have laid the groundwork for a dedicated platform for subregional organisations within the Commission sessions.
Such a platform adds value by enhancing continuity, coordination and impact. The Secretary-General in his annual report has commended the role of subregional organisations in ensuring that global policies are adapted and implemented at the subregional level, contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
By strengthening this platform, ESCAP aims to better harness the comparative advantages of subregional organisations, facilitate South-South cooperation and support more coherent and inclusive development pathways across Asia and the Pacific.
In a region defined by its diversity, the future of cooperation lies in how effectively those differences are connected. As ESCAP moves toward establishing a broader platform for regional engagement, it is reinforcing the subregions as the backbone of Asia-Pacific cooperation…. PACNEWS
Shombi Sharp is Deputy Executive Secretary for Partnerships and Coordination
Mikiko Tanaka is Head of Subregional Office for South and South-West Asia
Ganbold Baasanjav is Head of Subregional Office for East and North-East Asia
Andie Fong Toy is Head of Subregional Office for the Pacific
Emelie Pettersson is Consultant, Subregional Office for South-East Asia
