America in the Pacific

The USA emphasised a ‘whole-of-government effort’ in engaging with the Pacific at the US Institute of Peace’s Interorganizational Global Forum on security cooperation in the Pacific islands in September.

The Pacific looms large in climate policy

Although Pacific island countries barely contribute to global warming, they stand at the frontline

Loss and damage

The PIF Leaders’ Meeting is an important chance to jolt the world into action on a climate Loss and Damage Fund after decades of fighting for justice.

Caught in the great divide

Pacific Islands Forum members will face challenging conversations about the prickly US-China relationship and its effect on the region in their meeting this week.

Road to nowhere?

The Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting this week takes place amid a changing dynamic of security and development in the region.

The pros and cons of Pacific tourism

Pacific Islands were likened to paradise by early European travellers. The climate, the nature, and the hospitality of local people make Pacific Islands seemingly perfect tourist destinations. Yet, the development and the impact of tourism among the Pacific Islands is very complex.

Promoting science in the Pacific

An ambitious plan to co-design and establish a Pacific academy of sciences and humanities has gained strong support from more than 60 scholars from across the Pacific meeting in Samoa.

Fish farming in PNG

A UNSW Sydney researcher has received $2.6 million in funding to expand fish farming and its positive social impact in Papua New Guinea.

Renewing police connections in the Pacific

Australia should invest in strengthening its support and connections with policing in the Pacific to improve social stability on troubled islands and prevent China offering to fill a security void to pursue its own expansionist agenda.

Boosting women’s representation in Pacific politics

Independent states in the Pacific region have the lowest levels of women’s political representation in the world and, despite isolated bright spots, more action across the region is required.

Planning for the Pacific Games in the Solomon Islands

The Solomon Islands’ security environment is stable for now, and the Pacific Games may proceed there in November without a hitch, but Australia’s prior preparation and scenario planning will help cope with any potential emergency.

Building trust in US–Pacific Islands relations

Washington must prioritise gaining the trust of the Pacific Island countries to ensure meaningful commitment to the region — without Beijing’s initiatives being the key motivation for cooperation.