The long journey – political acceptance of women
2 March, 2016

The long journey – political acceptance of women

The Pacific is still struggling to get women into parliaments across the region. Mary Jack Kaviamu recently contested the 2016 Vanuatu national snap election in the Tanna open constituency. Although she failed to secure a seat, she clearly hasn't given up. For Mary and her supporters, the journey has just begun. Here she relays her experience, particularly the challenges encountered on the way.
Dare to dream, but in PNG it’s not enough
17 February, 2016

Dare to dream, but in PNG it’s not enough

Many people are commenting online on the impacts of decisions taken by the current Papua New Guinea government, with many expressing their feelings about a looming fiscal crisis. Dulciana Somare-Brash provides a raw assessment of the situation, saying the country will need more than a new crop of freshly elected leaders in 2017.
Flying into the abyss?
3 February, 2016

Flying into the abyss?

Many people have commented on the saga surrounding the Vanuatu airport and the termination of flights critical to the tourism industry and economy. There are sensible solutions available to address the immediate works, and the longer-term fix does not need to bankrupt the country.
A deeper look at the Vanuatu election
2 February, 2016

A deeper look at the Vanuatu election

On 22 January 2016 the people of Vanuatu went to the polls to elect the eleventh and most diverse national Parliament. In this post we look more closely at the results, which reveals democracy in Vanuatu is seemingly delivering a kind of micro federalisation. While this is reflective of the reality on the ground, it does not bode well for nation building, and presents a significant challenge for political parties to consolidate or grow their share of the popular vote.

28 January, 2016

The final motion

Riyad Mucadam reflects on several so called historic moments that took place in the Marshall Islands' Nitijela (parliament) during the past few weeks, one of them the placated, polite and procedural election of Dr. Hilda C. Heine as the new President.

14 October, 2015

When does corruption become a regional issue?

Sam Koim poses a valid question in light of the growing incidence of corruption and the erosion of rule of law in our region. Australia and New Zealand have a vested interest in the answer as well.
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