Kaliopate Tavola discusses the issues central to the future of the WTO. As a former WTO permanent representative, he says despite all overtures at reforming it, this global international organization is fracturing and may be beyond repair.
The United States Multilateral Fisheries Treaty benefitted the United States and not Pacific island governments because the conditions for equity based on resource ownership and appropriate sharing were not considered in the treaty, writes Walter Diamana.
Kaliopate Tavola asks if a 'stable regional order’ as envisioned by Australia and New Zealand is being achieved at a time when their inclusion in Pacific regional architecture is being questioned.
Pacific leaders meeting in Timor-Leste have echoed the objectives of g7+ nations by asking for a new deal on development that reflects their national development priorities.
Since the independence movements of the 70s, very few colonial territories are left in the Pacific, with New Caledonia being one of the most prominent. Freelance journalist Nic Maclellan provides an excellent stock take piece of what New Caledonia has been up to of late.
Gender quotas is one most effective way to fast track women numbers in parliament, however attempts to implement quotas in pacific island states are being met with uptight reluctance across the board. Are they truly yet another barrier in disguise?
In spite of its onerous obligations, Fiji's political parties decree may actually have some benefits. Many have been quick to write off the decree entirely, but it’s worth considering what benefits may be derived and what implications the decree will have.