Category: International

France has reaffirmed its dedication to enhancing academic and scientific partnerships in the Pacific through a new funding initiative. The French government has allocated €130,000 (approximately FJD 340,000) under the Campus Mobile Pacifique program, which will support 70 students and researchers across the region in 2025.

This initiative, funded by France’s Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, aims to foster deeper academic connections and strengthen collaborations between French territories and Pacific Island nations. The program was launched following President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to the Pacific in 2023, highlighting France’s aim to broaden educational and research ties throughout Oceania.

The funding for 2025 will back cooperation projects involving universities and research institutions in a variety of Pacific nations, including Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, and French Polynesia. Specific allocations include €50,000 for the Pacific Islands Universities Regional Network (PIURN), €44,000 for the Vanuatu–New Caledonia Research Exchange, €17,000 for the University of Goroka (PNG) French Language Immersion program, €4,000 for a Language Education Conference in French Polynesia, and €10,000 for Fiji National University Research Partnerships.

Matilda Souchon, the PIURN Coordinator based at the University of the South Pacific (USP), noted the launch of their first PIURN Summer Institute, which focuses on training PhD students on climate change themes relevant to the Pacific. Students from the region gathered at USP’s newly established Centre for Sustainable Futures to learn about Pacific research methodologies and climate negotiations, among other vital topics.

Souchon expressed gratitude for the support received from the Pacific Fund, which is funded by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with the Francophone University Agency, the Australian National University, and Auckland University of Technology. These partners contributed academics to facilitate sessions and enhance the learning experience.

This initiative embodies a commitment to building a resilient academic community engaged in pressing global issues such as climate change, ultimately paving the way for a stronger collaboration across the Pacific region.

Pacific leaders and representatives from overseas territories are uniting to ensure their voices do not get overlooked in the ongoing discussions surrounding climate change. Following COP30 in Belem, Brazil, the sentiment among regional governments and organizations reflects a stark realization that their concerns and needs continue to be neglected by more powerful nations.

Having faced the frontline impacts of rising sea levels and increasingly severe storms, the Pacific countries are now shifting their approach from negotiation to actionable delivery. They have long contended that smaller nations disproportionately bear the brunt of climate change, yet find themselves excluded from critical climate finance opportunities and decision-making processes.

An analysis from the Green Overseas Programme underlines the need for proactive measures; without them, the outcomes of COP30 risk falling short in creating meaningful changes for those most affected by the climate crisis. Ahab Downer, Director of the Green Overseas Programme, emphasized the necessity for systemic transformations. He stated that while COP30 highlighted the determination of climate-conscious leaders to pursue ambitious goals, true progress hinges on facilitating equitable access to decision-making for the Pacific island nations.

Looking forward to COP31, held in Türkiye, Downer stressed, “It is essential that Pacific islanders—and other island populations globally—are empowered to shape and drive the agenda, which will undoubtedly benefit all populations on our planet.” He further noted that these communities possess invaluable lived experience and expertise that are crucial for effective resilience-building efforts.

Ilona Mayerau-Lonné, a former representative for Kanaky (New Caledonia) on the European Union’s Overseas Countries and Territories Youth Network, echoed these sentiments, cautioning that while the relocation of COP31 may change the dialogue, it must not silence the Pacific voices. “Our leadership isn’t just optional; it’s foundational for credible climate action. The Pacific’s solutions, ranging from loss and damage to ocean resilience, are vital to global survival.” She argued that excluding these perspectives not only undermines the process but is also a strategic error that affects everyone.

Mayerau-Lonné highlighted that the wisdom of Pacific islanders in adaptation, Indigenous knowledge, and climate litigation serves as a blueprint for worldwide survival. “This issue goes beyond mere representation; it’s about acknowledging that no climate solution is comprehensive without the input of those living through the crisis firsthand.”

As COP31 approaches, smaller island governments continue to advocate for practical and accessible mechanisms that allow them to engage meaningfully in the next phase of the Paris Agreement. The Green Overseas Programme is calling for a focus on several key areas:

– Inclusion of island, particularly Overseas Countries and Territories (OCT), delegates in national delegations.
– Establishment of direct access paths to climate financing for smaller administrations.
– Recognition of community-driven solutions that are already proving effective.
– A commitment that the transition to implementation must not exclude structurally marginalized island nations.

The push for equitable participation and recognition of local expertise offers a hopeful path forward, as the Pacific region seeks to ensure that it plays a critical role in shaping global climate policies.

Rebeca Grynspan, a senior U.N. official and contender to become the first female secretary-general of the United Nations, has expressed her commitment to improving trust in the organization amid ongoing criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump. The nomination process for the next U.N. chief began recently, with member states invited to propose candidates to succeed Antonio Guterres from January 1, 2027.

Grynspan, who currently serves as the secretary-general of the U.N. Conference on Trade and Development and has previously held the role of vice president in Costa Rica, is one of the openly declared candidates for the prestigious position. If selected, she would take office during Trump’s presidency.

Trump has consistently expressed skepticism toward multilateralism, echoing the sentiments from his previous term. He has criticized the U.N. for its inability to facilitate peace in global conflicts, acknowledging the organization’s potential while insisting it needs significant reforms to fulfill its mission effectively.

In response to Trump’s criticisms, Grynspan noted that while they could be seen as constructive rather than destructive, it is essential for the U.N. to acknowledge “a weakening of trust” and the need for reform. “The U.N. has to embrace reform, not be defensive about it,” she remarked, highlighting the organization’s crucial role in fostering global stability and progress.

Grynspan emphasized the U.N.’s impressive achievements, including advancements in reducing poverty and improving maternal and infant health. She stressed that while the U.N. should be open to reform, it must also retain the valuable experiences and resources it has built over its 80 years.

Moreover, Grynspan pointed out that the U.N. has yet to have a female secretary-general, an oversight she argues is unjust given the numerous qualified women ready to lead. “What we don’t need is special treatment. What we are really asking for is no discrimination,” she asserted, advocating for equal opportunities for women in leadership roles.

As calls intensify for a woman to assume the role, attention is also drawn to the likelihood that the next secretary-general may emerge from Latin America, aligning with the traditional regional rotation for the position. Alongside Grynspan, other declared candidates include former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet and Argentine diplomat Rafael Grossi.

Grynspan underscored the importance of inclusivity in the U.N., noting that when it was established post-World War II, it had only 51 member states, a stark contrast to today’s 193. “Those voices have to have wider space to be heard,” she remarked, suggesting that adding permanent Security Council seats for Africa and Latin American nations would be a meaningful reform.

With her notable experience and vision for reform, Grynspan represents a significant candidate for a transformative opportunity within the U.N., embodying the hope for a more inclusive and effective global governance structure.

Fiji is emerging as a leader in shaping the legal and justice landscape within the Pacific region by initiating comprehensive reforms aimed at combating cybercrime, corruption, and gender-based violence. This commitment was underscored by Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga during the 44th Pacific Islands Law Officers Network meeting held in Papua New Guinea in October.

Minister Turaga expressed the significance of Fiji’s efforts in legislative drafting and regional cooperation. He noted, “For decades, Pacific countries relied heavily on external legislative models. Through this first meeting, we asserted ownership of our legal identity. We affirmed that Pacific nations can draw laws that speak our language, reflect our realities, and uphold our values.” This statement reflects a growing sense of autonomy and empowerment among Pacific nations in legal matters.

Fiji is actively advancing various initiatives, including co-hosting the inaugural Pacific Legislative Drafters Steering Committee. This committee is poised to modernize cybercrime legislation and support frameworks that address transnational crime. Furthermore, Turaga emphasized the importance of partnerships with Australia, New Zealand, and UN agencies to bolster the legal systems across the Pacific. Such collaborations aim to create systems that are not only fair and modern but also resilient to the challenges posed by an evolving global environment.

Fiji’s proactive approach highlights a hopeful trajectory for law and justice in the Pacific, encouraging member nations to tailor their legal structures to local needs while fostering a collaborative regional atmosphere. This collaborative spirit may pave the way for a more secure and just future across the entire Pacific region, promoting peace, stability, and social equity.

Lithuania’s Vilnius Airport temporarily halted flights for the second time due to suspicions of balloons in its airspace, marking the latest incident in a series of similar occurrences in recent months. The airport operator confirmed the suspension in a public statement.

Authorities in Lithuania believe that these balloons are being utilized by smugglers to transport illicit cigarettes from Belarus. They have placed blame on Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, who is closely aligned with Russian President Vladimir Putin, accusing him of failing to prevent what they describe as a form of “hybrid attack.”

Lukashenko, for his part, has accused Western nations of waging a hybrid war against Belarus and Russia. The Vilnius Airport, situated approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) from the Belarusian border, has experienced more than ten flight suspensions since early October as a direct result of these unsettling incidents.

As tensions continue in the region, the safety and security of air travel remain a top priority for Lithuanian authorities. The ongoing occurrences highlight the complexities of geopolitical relations and underline the significant challenges faced in managing borders and airspace in an increasingly contentious environment.

The United Kingdom has granted a significant boost to Fiji’s sugar industry by approving an increase of 65,000 tonnes in Fiji’s raw sugar quota, effective from January 1, 2026. Additionally, Fiji will maintain its duty-free access to the UK market for the next eight years.

Charan Jeath Singh, the Minister for Sugar and Multi-Ethnic Affairs, announced this achievement in Parliament, describing it as a substantial diplomatic and trade success for Fiji. He emphasized that this commitment from the UK is a strong endorsement of Fiji’s sugar industry.

Under the UK–Pacific Economic Partnership Agreement, the UK has vowed to uphold its Global Tariff and expand Fiji’s import quota. This decision not only promises long-term stability for Fiji’s sugar exports but also injects renewed momentum into one of the nation’s key economic sectors.

The enhancement of Fiji’s sugar export capacity presents an optimistic outlook for the industry and the country’s economy as a whole, reinforcing the importance of international partnerships in fostering growth and ensuring sustainability in trade practices.

The remains of Sudthisak Rinthalak, a Thai agricultural worker, have been confirmed by Israeli and Thai officials as having been handed over by militants in Gaza. This announcement marks a significant development in the fragile ceasefire that has been in effect for eight weeks. There is now one more set of remains yet to be returned as the first phase of the ceasefire moves closer to completion.

However, the future of the ongoing ceasefire remains uncertain as discussions continue regarding the next phases of a U.S.-drafted, U.N.-backed plan for Gaza. Key issues include how Hamas’ disarmament will be implemented and the establishment of an international administration and security force in the region.

Since the ceasefire began on October 10, both Israel and Hamas have accused each other of failing to uphold the terms of the truce. Reports indicate that Israeli airstrikes and military engagements during this period have resulted in approximately 366 Palestinian fatalities, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. Conversely, Israel contends that Hamas has executed attacks against its soldiers. The situation remains dire, with around half of the devastated Gaza Strip still under Israeli military control. The majority of the local population, estimated at around 2 million, has been displaced from their homes and relies heavily on international aid.

Despite the challenges, the return of Sudthisak Rinthalak’s remains could provide a pivotal moment for reconciliation and further negotiations towards a lasting peace in the region. The international community continues to watch closely, hoping for constructive dialogue that may lead to a more stable and secure future for the residents of Gaza.

U.S. lawmakers are expressing divergent views following a briefing regarding a military operation that targeted a suspected drug boat in the Caribbean. The strike, which took place on September 2, resulted in the destruction of the vessel and the deaths of 11 individuals believed to be involved in drug trafficking.

Democratic lawmakers voiced their outrage after viewing footage that depicted survivors of the initial attack being killed during a subsequent strike. They have raised concerns about the ethical implications and legality of the tactics employed by the military. On the other hand, some Republican representatives defended the operation, labeling it as lawful and a necessary measure in the fight against drug trafficking.

The situation has sparked significant debate regarding the conduct of U.S. military operations in international waters. Lawmakers are questioning the protocols in place during such complex operations, particularly the decision-making processes involving Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and his team.

As discussions continue, the military’s operational transparency and adherence to legal frameworks in combat scenarios remain critical points of contention among lawmakers. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges in balancing national security interests with adherence to lawful military engagement in the war against drug-related crimes.

When Susan Pinu became pregnant with her daughter, she was away from her homeland in the Solomon Islands, searching for assistance in an unfamiliar Australian town. This journey was not how she envisioned her experience when she signed up for the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme in 2021, with dreams of earning enough income to build a house and support her family back home.

More than two years later, after working as a fruit picker, Susan found herself without a job, navigating her new reality while carrying her daughter, Angella, in Leeton, a town in New South Wales Riverina. After leaving the PALM scheme, Susan’s situation reflects the challenges faced by many migrant workers who seek better opportunities but encounter unexpected hardships along the way.

This story highlights the resilience and determination of individuals trying to build a better life, despite the obstacles they may face in foreign lands.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the World Bank have launched two significant projects aimed at boosting infrastructure and healthcare in the Pacific islands, utilizing a novel cofinancing model designed to enhance efficiency and prompt action. This collaborative effort utilizes the Full Mutual Reliance Framework, recently approved to allow one institution to serve as the principal financier, thus minimizing redundancy and channeling resources toward implementation.

The first initiative involves a substantial investment of $236.5 million to modernize Fiji’s primary healthcare system. This project aims to establish a regional hospital that will specifically address the rising incidence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the nation, where diabetes has become the leading cause of death. Currently, an alarming statistic reveals that an amputation occurs every 8.5 hours in Fiji. Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel has expressed optimism about this project, stating it will enhance the quality of healthcare, facilitate early detection of diseases, and improve overall health outcomes for the population.

The second project focuses on upgrading the transport, urban, and water infrastructure in Tonga. ADB and the World Bank will jointly provide $120 million in grants for this developmental effort, marking the largest project ever funded by development partners in the country. This initiative will lead to crucial improvements in transport and drainage systems around the capital city of Nuku’alofa. A key feature of this upgrade is a 720-meter (0.45-mile) bridge across a lagoon, which is expected to alleviate congestion and offer secure evacuation routes during emergencies such as tsunamis.

World Bank President Ajay Banga, alongside ADB President Masato Kanda, highlighted the challenges countries with limited capacity face when dealing with multiple lenders, often leading to inefficiency and delays. Banga emphasized the goal of the cofinancing framework is to directly address these challenges, reduce duplicative efforts, and allow institutions to redirect time, funding, and expertise towards effective project execution.

Furthermore, Banga noted that around 20 additional cofinanced projects are currently in development, spanning sectors such as infrastructure, energy, agribusiness, healthcare, and social protection. He described the framework as a groundbreaking model for how multilateral development banks can collaborate as a more cohesive system, with ongoing discussions with other financial institutions, including the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the African Development Bank, to implement similar cooperative strategies.

These initiatives not only promise to enhance healthcare and infrastructure resilience in Fiji and Tonga but also serve as a model for international collaboration in the pursuit of sustainable development in vulnerable regions.