Tackling drugs in the Pacific

The production and trafficking of illicit drugs in Asia and the Pacific poses a significant threat to Australia as well as the nations involved.

Challenges to Pacific democracy

Democratic norms and practices have a solid foundation in the Pacific, but the events of 2022 prove that this cannot be taken for granted.

Building on Penny Wong’s visit to Palau

Australia should do more to ensure small island states like Palau can develop economically and protect themselves from aggressors.

Fighting in the streets

The recent history of riots in the South Pacific belies its gentle reputation, and highlights the social tensions created by authoritarian governments and growing Chinese influence.

Earth’s empty quarter

While the largest islands in the Pacific are experiencing rapid population growth, many smaller islands are losing their people to migration abroad.

Seasonal job schemes drain Pacific nations of vital workers

Many skilled Pacific workers are lured abroad by temporary work schemes, but better job opportunities at home in Pacific nations are also required to strengthen their economies.

Advancing the women, peace and security agenda in the Pacific

The WPS agenda aims to ‘prevent insecurity and violence by harnessing the potentials of both women and men, and addressing structural gender inequality and discriminatory gender norms that are barriers to sustainable peace’.

Bank erosion

The growing exodus of international banks from the Pacific is leaving many Islanders without access to the safe, reliable financial services they need.

A sea change in Pacific relations

The Albanese government’s shift on climate policy has been transformative in relations with Pacific island countries but can this positive momentum be maintained?

Biden’s Pacific summit

The US – Pacific Island Country Summit on 28–29 September will underline the importance the USA attaches to strengthening its ties in the Pacific island region.

Revamping Pacific tourism

Pacific Island people were resilient when tourism halted. Now that it’s reopening, the world could learn from what they want.

Shenanigans in the Solomons

Reassuring words from Manasseh Sogavare, the Prime Minister of the Solomons Islands, shouldn’t blind Australian policy makers from his worrying actions to subvert democracy and cosy up to the Chinese.