Expert: Deep-sea mining latest subversion of Pacific islands’ sovereignty
DEEP-SEA mining is less a question of discovery and more a question of decisions shaping future political and economic
Militarisation
Civil society wants consultation on JHoPS and Forum security networks
AS Pacific Islands Forum leaders prepare for their annual retreat at the 55th Pacific Islands Forum in Palau, civil society groups have called for a pause on moves to transform the region’s security
Forum struggles with missile dilemma
AS they gather in Palau this week for the 55th Pacific Islands Forum, regional leaders want development partners to focus on their Blue Pacific agenda on climate, oceans and human
When silence is a Pacific response
NUCLEAR capable Chinese ballistic missile, launched from a nuclear-powered submarine in July, arced over several Pacific nations and landed without warning in waters close to Tuvalu’s exclusive economic
PACNEWS TWO 23 JULY 2026
In this bulletin: 1. PACIFIC — China urges openness after Solomon Islands announces U.S Coast Guard patrol deal2. SOL — PM Wale wraps up Washington visit with focus on investment and development3. FIJI
2006 Militarisation left Fiji’s civil service fearful and broken
FIJI’S 2006 military takeover did more than topple a government.
Pacific CSOs: Our ocean is not a battleground
PACIFIC civil society organisations want regional leaders to reject growing militarisation and have warned that the region must not become a battleground for geopolitical
Opinion: President Surangel Whipps Jr.’s inaugural address – A visionary agenda or a familiar refrain?
Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr.’s 16 January inaugural address delivered a broad vision for Palau’s future, addressing the nation’s role in geopolitics, domestic challenges and environmental stewardship.
