More from Dan McGarry

The dynamics of Pacific politics and the internet are in some respects reflections of Pacific politics writ large, but in others they closely mirror strategic trends whose impacts are beginning to be felt globally. Dan McGarry takes a look at the inextricable link between government policy and the health of the internet in the Pacific

West Papuan independence figure Benny Wenda’s recent visit to Vanuatu’s Parliament –an historic first– seems to have left echoes within its halls. One thing is clear: Issues such as the plight of West Papuans can no longer be brushed off as entirely domestic in nature.

The speed with which Facebook has been appropriated by young ni-Vanuatu is truly remarkable. Indeed, the number and variety of Facebook Vanuatu-focused pages and groups is a close reflection of the wide range of affiliations and interests that characterises its society.