[PDFlist] Pacific News as of Friday 03, May. 2019

[Soloveni Vitoso]

1. PACIFIC --- ADB launches $5 billion healthy oceans action plan
2. FIJI --- Fiji protests called off; dozens of unionists still in custody
3. PNG --- PNG Government paid outstanding K10 million for Bougainville Referendum Commission
4. PNG --- PM O'Neill thanks PNC and the government for support
5. TAIWAN --- Solomon Islands PM to consult with allies on Taiwan ties: MOFA
6. FIJI --- Fiji chairs Human Rights Council task force on accessibility for persons with disabilities
7. PACIFIC --- Pacific Air Forces practice short-notice readiness for typhoon operations
8. NEWS BIZ --- Fiji Airways soars into the future with latest generation A350-900s
9. NEWS BIZ --- World Tuna Day: A reminder of a rich resource and the need to protect it
10 DIGEST --- Statement by the PINA President on World Media Freedom Day 2019
11. DIGEST --- Low carbon development in the Pacific - "it makes sense."
12. DIGEST --- Low Carbon Development shared the Pacific island way
13. DIGEST --- Call for more youth involvement in low carbon developments and climate change at national, regional and global level
14. DIGEST --- PNG Launches Data Portal and Data Sharing Policy for the Environment
15. DIGEST --- Tokelau launches 3-Day Women's Summit

ADB launches $5 billion healthy oceans action plan

NADI, 03 MAY 2019 (ADB) --- The Asian Development Bank (ADB) Thursday launched the Action Plan for Healthy Oceans and Sustainable Blue Economies for the Asia and Pacific region at the 52nd Annual Meeting of ADB's Board of Governors in Fiji.

"The prosperity of our region depends on healthy oceans and sustainable development," said ADB President Takehiko Nakao.

"We must work toward a more resilient future, where humanity and oceans thrive together." The action plan will support the efforts of ADB's developing member countries to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 14 Life Below Water.

The Action Plan for Healthy Oceans and Sustainable Blue Economies will expand financing and technical assistance for ocean health and marine economy projects to US$5 billion from 2019 to 2024, including cofinancing from partners. It will focus on four areas: creating inclusive livelihoods and business opportunities in sustainable tourism and fisheries; protecting and restoring coastal and marine ecosystems and key rivers; reducing land-based sources of marine pollution, including plastics, wastewater, and agricultural runoff; and improving sustainability in port and coastal infrastructure development.

Asia and the Pacific is at the epicentre of a major crisis in marine plastic pollution, threatening the productivity of the region's marine economies, which are crucial to poverty reduction. For example, among the 10 rivers transporting 88% to 95% of plastics into the sea worldwide, 8 are in the region.

Ocean ecosystems have been pushed to the brink of collapse by the threats of climate change, pollution, and illegal and unregulated fishing, among others. Unless immediate action is taken, about 90% of Asia and the Pacific's coral reefs will be dead by 2050, and all commercially exploitable fish stocks will disappear by then. This will significantly threaten food security, the global economy, and livelihoods, especially among millions of poor and vulnerable communities in the region.

As a part of the action plan, ADB will launch the Oceans Financing Initiative to create opportunities for the private sector to invest in bankable projects that will help improve ocean health. The initiative will provide technical assistance grants and funding from ADB and other donors to reduce the technical and financial risks of projects. This will be done through instruments such as credit risk guarantees and capital market "blue bonds".

The Oceans Financing Initiative will be piloted in Southeast Asia in collaboration with the ASEAN Infrastructure Fund and the Republic of Korea. The World-Wide Fund for Nature, a longtime partner of ADB, will support the design and implementation of the financing initiative.

At the Annual Meeting, ADB is also organising a seminar titled "Ocean Health: Actions from Source to Sea." Speakers at the seminar include Indonesian Minister for National Development Planning and ADB Alternate Governor for Indonesia Bambang Brodjonegoro; Global Environment Facility CEO and Chairperson Naoko Ishii; World Resources Institute President and CEO Andrew Steer; Pacific Islands Forum Deputy Secretary General Cristelle Pratt; and ADB President Takehiko Nakao. The seminar will be moderated by journalist and filmmaker Craig Leeson.

ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. In 2018, it made commitments of new loans and grants amounting to US$21.6 billion....

Fiji protests called off; dozens of unionists still in custody

SUVA, 03 MAY 2019 (RNZ PACIFIC) --- Fiji unionists have called off a mass protest planned for Friday in the wake of a police clampdown that saw more than 30 people arrested.

A protest march had also been planned in Nadi on Saturday, but the Fiji Transport Authority refused to issue a permit, saying it would impede the safe movement of traffic.

Several union leaders who were arrested on Wednesday were released from police custody late on Thursday, but the secretary of the Fiji Trades Union Congress, Felix Anthony, and about two dozen of his colleagues were still being held, the congress said. No charges have been laid.

The Fiji Trade Union Congress' offices were also searched by police on Thursday. In a statement, the congress said the raid interrupted an afternoon meeting of the executive board.

The congress's Attar Singh said the crackdown had left the union with no option but to postpone Friday's planned protest.

"But because the police are refusing to allow people to gather at any one place, including private properties, such as union properties, in light of that nobody will be able to assemble in any case, and for that reason, primarily, the protest had to be deferred," Singh said.

Despite the cancellation, Singh said the domestic and international attention had far exceeded expectations.

Meanwhile, the opposition National Federation Party said Fiji had become a police state following the union crackdowns.

Its leader, Biman Prasad, labelled the arrests as persecution, harassment and intimidation, and called for the immediate release of all those who were detained.

In New Zealand, about 30 protesters picketed outside the Fiji High Commission in Wellington. The president of the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions, Richard Wagstaff, said the crackdown was an atrocious response from the Fiji government to people exercising their democratic right to protest.

"Unions around the world are looking at this and we will stand up, and we expect nations in the Pacific including New Zealand to make it clear to the Fijian authorities that we cannot tolerate this in our region," he said....

PNG Government paid outstanding K10 million for Bougainville Referendum Commission

PORT MORESBY, 03 MAY 2019 (POST COURIER) --- The Papua New Guinea government Thursday paid in full the outstanding K10 million (US$2.9 million) of the K20 million (US$5.9 million) allocated for the Bougainville Referendum Commission.

The government had also released the remaining K8.244 million (US$2.44 million) for the Parliamentary Services for Bougainville, which was presented to Bougainville Finance Minister Robin Wilson.

Deputy Prime Minister and Treasurer Charles Abel said government was committed to Bougainville especially in achieving its required goals especially towards the Referendum, hence the release of funds.

Wilson said he flew to Port Moresby this week to thank Abel and the O'Neill government for the fast release of the funds and for being committed to Bougainville

"The records prove that the funding is in the BRC account and we also have proof that the Parliament Services grant is paid accordingly and it's on par with the budget and this is something we have not seen before, that's a lot to say that the government is committed," Wilson said.

"It's a very positive thing. "And I am very thankful to the national government, especially the Deputy Prime Minister and Treasurer for ensuring that the government has played their part."

Abel on the other hand said that the government is committed to ensure a free and fair referendum vote is carried out.

"About K34 million (US$10 million) was the total budget. K5 million for weapons disposal and about K14 million (US$4.1 million) we have asked our developing partners to help.

"The government has committed K20 million which has all been released," Abel said.

"We are committed to the process.

"We feel that it's very important that we facilitate as best as we can to allow the commission to do its work under the very capable chairman, Bertie Ahern and the other members of the commission and of course the staff, the electoral commission supported by the PNG Electoral Commission.

"Timeline is relatively short so it is good to get the money out quickly and we have also asked our development partners if they can help us to meet the balance of what is required so we can continue the process towards updating the electoral roll and awareness on referendum." ....

PM O'Neill thanks PNC and the government for support

PORT MORESBY, 03 MAY 2019 (POST COURIER) --- Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Peter O'Neill has thanked members of the People's National Congress caucus for their ongoing support, and highlighted that with 38 members, under his leadership, the party maintains its mandate to lead the government.

The PNC Party caucus met on Wednesday night ahead of the upcoming session of Parliament.

"In our party room we have 38 Members of Parliament supporting my leadership, and the direction our party is taking in the remains three years before we prepare for the 2022 National Election," Mr O'Neill said after the meeting.

"This is an unquestionable demonstration of the strength and stability of our party caucus and of the coalition government.

"Working with our coalition partners, our government has demonstrated what can be achieved through stability and strong policies which work for the good of our people.

"Our government has continued the policy agenda of the last Parliament in delivering vital services and infrastructure to our people in all areas of our country.

"Never in the history of our nation have we seen so many children in schools, so many more hospitals and healthcare centres opened, and so many new airports, roads, jetties and other infrastructure built.
"Our work is not yet complete, and that is why a government is elected for five years so that policy can continue to be turned into reality for our people.

"This government is determined to see our policy agenda delivered over the term of this Parliament, and then we will go to the people for their judgment at the 2022 elections.

"Over the coming three years we have maintained clear policies that will increase the number of teachers for our students, and will improve the supply of medicines and increase the number of doctors and nurses.

"We will continue to attract more foreign investment because the global business community can see again the stability we have in our government and the continuity of our policies.

"In the coming years we will see the start of the construction phase of the Papua LNG project, that will create more than 10,000 jobs, and thousands more in related support to the project.

"We will see the increase in the number of people in remote and rural areas who are connected to electricity, and that will increase to 70 per cent coverage of our population by 2030.

"Soon we will connect the new undersea cable that will make internet cheaper and faster and more accessible to millions of people across our country.

"These projects would not be coming online if we had the alternative government in office, where there are no real policy platforms and an unruly group of self-interested members."

He said it is unfortunate that every couple of years the Opposition tries a vote, when there are no grounds for change, and this causes damage to the economy and reputation of the nation.

"The past few weeks has demonstrated to the nation the reason why political opportunism and power plays should have no place in the governance of Papua New Guinea.

"They the Opposition make a lot of noise.

"And convince some in the media that a change of government is imminent, and this causes distraction.

"So, when you have a minority of members playing games and grandstanding, with no hope of being successful with a vote of no confidence, they are costing the men and women of our country.

"It would be a different story if it was clear that the government of the day did not have the support of the Parliament.

"But this is not the case today. "The last time a vote was attempted in 2016, the small group who supported the vote were defeated 85 votes to 21."

The Prime Minister said the Opposition have to accept that Parliament and Parliamentary processes have changed since the last successful vote of no confidence in 1994....

Solomon Islands PM to consult with allies on Taiwan ties: MOFA

TAIPEI, 03 MAY 2019 (CENTRAL NEWS AGENCY) --- Taiwan believes the newly-elected Solomon Islands prime minister will consult with all members of his coalition government, including those who are friendly to Taiwan, before making any major decision regarding ties between the two countries, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said Thursday.

The statement was released after the "The Australian" reported Thursday that Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare revealed his government is considering whether to cut ties with Taiwan.

Asked to comment, MOFA spokesman Andrew Lee said as in previous general elections, no single party won a majority during the April 3 election in the Pacific ally.

That means Sogavare, who became prime minister last Wednesday, has to form a coalition government, according to Lee.

Lee said MOFA believes Sogavare made the comments on the possibility of switching recognition because as prime minister, he has to "express views shared by some of the coalition members."

"But we believe Prime Minister Sogavare, as a seasoned politician, will also consult with other coalition members that are friendly toward Taiwan," he noted.

Meanwhile, Taiwan ambassador to Solomon Islands Roger Luo told Taiwan media during a phone interview Thursday that some cabinet members of the Solomon Islands government have long supported developing closer relations with China, especially during major elections.

However, such pro-china politicians only constitute a small portion of the government. Most of the parliamentarians and Sogavare himself still support maintaining ties with Taiwan, he added.

MOFA previously said it was glad to see Sogavare secure the position of prime minister last Wednesday, saying that having "an old friend of Taiwan" serving in the post will solidify ties with the Pacific ally.

Following an inconclusive April 3 election in which no single party won a majority, Sogavare won the backing of 34 of the country's 50 members of parliament in a controversial run-off last Wednesday, with his opponents boycotting the vote.

This will be Sogavare's fourth term as prime minister, his previous stints being in 2000, 2006 and most recently 2014.

Commenting earlier Thursday, President Tsai Ing-wen said the Taiwan government is fully aware of the situation in the Solomon Islands.

She confirmed that Beijing continues to pressure many of Taiwan's diplomatic allies but stressed her administration will do its best to solidify ties with its 17 allies.

Several media reports recently cited a number of senior Solomon Islands politicians, including former Prime Minister Rick Hou, as saying they would review their country's diplomatic relations with Taiwan if elected, raising the possibility of a diplomatic switch from Taipei to Beijing. Hou is part of the Sogavare coalition.

Deputy Foreign Minister Hsu Szu-chien tried March 21 to ease speculation by saying that he and Hou reaffirmed friendly bilateral relations during a meeting in March....


Fiji chairs Human Rights Council task force on accessibility for persons with disabilities

GENEVA, 03 MAY 2019 (FIJI GOVT) --- The President of the Human Rights Council, Coly Seck, has appointed Fiji's Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, Ambassador Nazhat Shameem Khan, as the Chair of the UN Human Rights Council Task Force on Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities.

This appointment as Chair of the Task Force is a testament to Fiji's strong leadership at the global stage, as a Member of the United Nations Human Rights Council and its important role as the Vice-President of the Council. It also demonstrates the recognition of Fiji's input into international policy making institutions.

The Task Force was established by the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) through a resolution in 2011 and it's composed of the UNHRC Bureau, which includes the President and Vice-Presidents of the Council. It also includes representatives of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, and representatives of the United Nations Office in Geneva.

The role of the Task Force is centered on ensuring accessibly to the Council and to make strategic recommendations on enhancing the Council's accessibility for persons living with disabilities. As Chair of the Task Force, Ambassador Khan is committed to securing maximum support for the Task Force in its objectives to advance the interests of persons living with disability.

Ambassador Khan said that through the work of the Task Force, Fiji will have a stronger voice in terms of advocating for the rights of persons living with disabilities. It will also strengthen accessibility mechanisms domestically through an effective implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act.  She will also work closely with Fiji's Ministry of Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation in reaching out to empower persons living with disabilities in Fiji.

In its first meeting, the Task Force looked at the proposed 2019 work plan which outlines priority areas related to actions to address existing barriers that prevent persons with disabilities from fully participating in the work of the Council.It also provided participants with an excellent opportunity to engage and contribute to the work of the Task Force.

As Chair of the Task Force, Ambassador Khan will work closely with the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, Catalina Devandas and experts from the Committee on the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities to promptly enhance the accessibility of the Council's buildings and meetings to persons living with disabilities.

Ambassador Khan will also hold a number of meetings throughout the year to take stock and evaluate the work of the Task Force in building an inclusive and supportive environment for persons with disabilities....



Pacific Air Forces practice short-notice readiness for typhoon operations

HAGATNA ,03 MAY 2019 (STAR & STRIPES) --- Airmen from seven air wings across the Pacific recently tested their ability to disperse aircraft, reorganise elsewhere and operate in the face of extreme weather.

The exercise, Resilient Typhoon, began April 22 at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, where U.S. airmen from Japan, Hawaii and Alaska gathered and then moved to airfields in the Federated States of Micronesia, the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas and Guam itself, according to the Pacific Air Forces.

The drills lasted until April 26 and included airfields on the islands of Tinian and Saipan in the Northern Marianas, two areas devastated by a super typhoon last fall.

Throughout the exercise, involving aircraft ranging from F-16s to C-130Js, airmen trained to rapidly move personnel and supplies, erect post-disaster communications and deliver airfield rescue firefighting.

Extreme weather in just the past year illustrates the importance of this training. Severe weather and a typhoon most recently interrupted exercise Cope North in Guam, for example.

"Operational environments and global threats evolve rapidly," Brig. Gen. Michael Winkler, Pacific Air Forces director of strategy, plans and programs, said in the statement from Pacific Air Forces. "We must ensure that all forward-deployed forces are ready for a potential contingency with little notice and that we can move more fluidly across the theater to seize, retain and exploit the initiative in any environment."

Last year 35 numbered storms, three above the annual average, blew across the western Pacific Ocean, including seven super typhoons.

One of them, Yutu, the second-strongest typhoon to ever hit a U.S. state or territory since record keeping began in 1958, in late October struck the Northern Marianas.

In February, Super Typhoon Wutip, the first-ever Category 5 tropical cyclone recorded in the northern hemisphere outside typhoon season, formed 200 miles southwest of Guam. It brushed by the island and peaked at sustained winds of 161 mph before weakening in the east Philippine Sea.

Wutip on Feb. 22 interrupted the Cope North exercise at Andersen Air Force Base.

The Resilient Typhoon exercise last month was also designed to maintain readiness in support of regional allies, as well as train to quickly adapt and respond, according to the statement.

"Pacific Air Forces appreciates the long history of support it has enjoyed in the region and strives to be a good partner with the people across Micronesia in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific," said Winkley. "These exercises serve to enhance our relationship, while also providing invaluable training and operational readiness." ....


FIJI - AIRLINE: FIJI AIRWAYS
Fiji Airways soars into the future with latest generation A350-900s

NADI, 03 MAY 2019 (FIJI AIRWAYS) --- Fiji Airways, Fiji's National Airline, has revealed in a joint announcement with majority shareholder, the Fijian Government, that it will acquire two new Airbus A350 XWB aircraft as part of its widebody aircraft expansion plans.

The new additions to the airline's widebody fleet will be used to service popular routes between the .US and Australia, with exact schedules to be confirmed closer to launch. The announcement comes as Fiji Airways continues to put into practice its unrelenting commitment to passenger satisfaction and sustainability.

Combining the latest aerodynamics, new Rolls-Royce Trent XWB generation engines and use of lightweight materials, the A350 XWB brings a 25% advantage in fuel burn, operating costs and carbon dioxide emissions compared to previous generation similar-sized aircraft, meaning a significant reduction to the airline's carbon footprint and fuel cost.

Andre Viljoen, Fiji Airways Managing Director & CEO said: "We are extremely pleased with this selection and proud of the confirmed arrangements with Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) Capital as the lessor, and Rolls-Royce as the engine supplier. Our teams are currently customising the aircraft to our specifications, including our world-renowned livery and designs which proudly represent the people of Fiji.

"Ultimately, a luxury, world-class destination, like Fiji, deserves a luxury, world-class travel experience and that's exactly what these aircraft will deliver. For our guests, the holiday starts the moment they board the aircraft," Viljoen continued.

The Airbus A350 will feature 33 B/E Aerospace Super Diamond, fully lie-flat Business Class beds, with each offering direct aisle access. While Economy Class will feature 301 Recaro CL3710 seats, which are ranked among the most comfortable long-haul economy class seats on the market.

The A350 XWB's Airspace by Airbus cabin is the quietest of any twin-aisle aircraft and offers passengers and crews the most modern in-flight products for the most comfortable flying experience. Not only will the aircraft provide the ultimate in luxury air travel to Fiji, it's also perfect for passengers taking long-haul connecting flights to other destinations. Boasting the latest generation AVANT inflight entertainment system from THALES and Wi-Fi connectivity, guests will be able to enjoy movies, tv and music on-demand, all whilst remaining connected in the air.

"Once the aircraft enter commercial service later this year, our customers will enjoy a truly world class onboard experience, supported by the authentic Fijian hospitality of our crews," added Viljoen.

"Bula Vinaka to Fiji Airways' stunning new A350s! We are truly proud to see Fiji Airways' eye-catching livery on our A350 XWB which will make it the launch carrier from the South Pacific region. We also congratulate DAE Capital on becoming the newest Airbus customer to recognise the A350 - the only new high capacity intercontinental aircraft in the world - hardly surprising as its fuel efficiency, sustainability and passenger comfort are simply unmatched," said Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer.

The two new A350 XWB aircraft will complement Fiji Airways' existing widebody fleet of six Airbus A330s, with delivery set for November and December this year.

There are 257 Airbus A350s in the skies around the world today, flown by 24 operators. These include Fiji Airways' partner oneworld airlines: Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Iberia, Malaysia Airlines and Qatar Airways. Other A350 operators include Hong Kong Airlines, Lufthansa and Singapore Airlines.

The order book for this aircraft type stands at 890 orders from 50 customers....

World Tuna Day: A reminder of a rich resource and the need to protect it

POHNPEI, 03 MAY 2019 (FFA) --- The Western and Central Pacific Ocean holds the world's largest tuna fishery with a total catch of more than 2.5 million tons a year.

The target species (albacore, skipjack, bigeye and yellowfin) are being managed at sustainable levels and there is no overfishing occurring for these stocks.  This is in stark contrast to all other oceans.

"On World Tuna Day we are reminded of the need to maximise the economic and social benefits from tuna for our people, our communities and our Pacific region. We are also reminded of the critical importance of protecting this rich resource," said FFA Director General, Dr Manu Tupou-Roosen.

"But we can't achieve this unless we continue to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing and use our world leading frameworks for cooperation such as the Niue Treaty Subsidiary Agreement (NTSA)."

The Niue Treaty is an agreement on cooperation between FFA members about monitoring, control and surveillance of fishing - it includes provisions on exchange of information (about where the position and speed of vessels at sea, which vessels are without licences) plus procedures for cooperation in monitoring, prosecuting and penalising illegal fishing vessels.

While chairing the NTSA session at the 110th Forum Fisheries Committee officials meeting, National Oceanic Resource Management Authority (NORMA) Executive Director, Eugene Pangelinan reminded delegates that "The NTSA provides members with a legally binding framework to work together to enhance monitoring, control and surveillance activities and ensure sustainability of our tuna resources in order to combat IUU fishing."

He added that "One way to ensure we have maximum economic returns whilst achieving sustainability of the resource is by sharing information and resources as and when required, to help keep IUU fishing out of the Pacific neighbourhood and that is done through agreements like the NTSA."

Two years ago, the United Nations mandated World Tuna Day in recognition of the need to raise awareness about the importance of tuna and to promote more sustainable fishing practices.

The FFA is the cornerstone for cooperation between Pacific Island countries in the management of their shared tuna resources.  The FFA Secretariat also provides support to its members with monitoring, control and surveillance activities through national capacity building and regional initiatives.FFA members are leading the way in eliminating IUU fishing through the Regional Aerial Surveillance Program, Regional Observer Programme, Vessel Monitoring Scheme, Information and technology services, and working with member countries on innovative new tools such as the Persons of Interest Strategy.

FFA staff currently attending the 110th Forum Fisheries Committee officials meeting in Pohnpei are joining World Tuna Day celebrations in a fishing tournament organised by NORMA. A celebration to also acknowledge 40 years of existence for two Pacific fisheries organisations - FFA and NORMA....

Statement by the PINA President on World Media Freedom Day 2019

"The role of the media in elections and democracy"

SUVA, 03 MAY 2019 (PINA SECRETARIAT) --- Today on the 03 May, hundreds of thousands of media workers across the globe will gather to commemorate World Press Freedom Day. Here in the Pacific, national media organisations are organising activities to celebrate the day and be reminded of the important role the media plays in promoting democracy and rule of law.

The media can only play this role well if it is guaranteed freedom of expression to deliver messages to the people without being oppressed or intimidated by authorities or any entities that have authority to prevent information from the people.

"This year's general theme is "The role of the Media in Elections and Democracy."

The Pacific Islands News Association (PINA) takes this opportunity to remind our Leaders that prevention of access to information to citizens is a violation of human rights.

Media plays a crucial role in shaping a healthy democracy. It is the backbone of a democracy. Media makes us aware of various social, political and economic activities happening around us daily. It is like a mirror, which shows us or strives to show us the bare truth and harsh realities of life.

The media has undoubtedly evolved to become more active over the years - particularly in the coverage of national elections. Social media has become a new battle ground for political campaigning in the Pacific - as seen recently with the Fiji elections in November last year and last week's general election in Solomon Islands. The excessive 'real time and live' coverage during elections helps people to make informed choices on electing the right person to power.

The media also exposes corruption in the democratic system in the hope that governments will address these problems and put in place policies and systems that are accountable and transparent and serve its citizens well.

Without a free, neutral and active media, democracy is meaningless. Media is often referred to as the fourth branch of government, or the Fourth Estate because of the power they wield and the oversight function they exercise.

Another example of the linkage between democracy and the rule of law is electoral justice and the media has an important role in ensuring these linkages are strengthened.

Electoral justice ensures that every action, procedure and decision related to the electoral process is in line with the law and that the enjoyment of electoral rights is protected and restored, giving people who believe their electoral rights have been violated, the ability to file a complaint, get a hearing and receive an adjudication. An electoral justice system is a key instrument of the rule of law and the ultimate guarantee of compliance with the democratic principle of holding free, fair and genuine elections.

As we celebrate this day, let us be reminded that some of our colleagues in the Pacific and around the world still work in restrictive environments that forces them to self-censor information to the general public. We urge those in authorities to remove these restrictions and allow the media to do its work without fear or favour.

PINA salutes all media workers throughout the Pacific for their perseverance in advocating and defending their right to report and express themselves freely despite restrictions to do so.

Happy World Media Freedom Day 2019!

Mr Kora Nou
President, Pacific Islands News Association.... PACNEWS

Low carbon development in the Pacific - "it makes sense."

SUVA, 03 MAY 2019 (SPREP) --- Pacific societies are highly dependent on energy generated by fossil fuels. The average Pacific island household spends a large portion of their income on electricity, petrol and diesel for transportation, and imported goods shipped to Pacific islands with a large carbon footprint.

Pacific island countries were presented with the benefits of transitioning to low carbon economies through Low Carbon Developments (LCD), which "makes sense" for the region, not only for economic reasons, but because it is at the front-line of the negative impacts of climate change. Transitioning to LCD will place the Pacific at the forefront of the fight against climate change.

Espen Ronneberg, Climate Change Adviser of the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), spoke on Low Carbon Developments (LCD) in Pacific communities and highlighted the economic, societal and environmental benefits this can bring about.

"Low carbon development is essentially about sustainable development and building resilience of our societies. For Pacific Small Island Developing States, it is even more quintessential than for other economies," Mr Ronneberg said.

"Pacific communities, especially rural families, are much more at the mercy of fossil fuel prices in their daily lives than others. Families have to make tough choices in their spending as a result of oil price shocks which have had dramatic effects on their livelihoods."

"LCD will see reduced fossil fuel bills for households and individuals, and will free up resources for other climate action, as well as improved social benefits. It will also mean gaining greater energy independence in societies," he added.

>From a societal perspective, new employment opportunities will arise in the renewable energy sector such as service and maintenance providers for renewable energy installations, harvesting and planting employment in biofuel industries to name a few, as well as more employment opportunities arising from more capital being made available in national economies due to decreased spending on fossil fuels and non-renewable energy sources.

"It also makes eminent sense from an environmental perspective, not only will contributions to climate change be significantly reduced, it will also result in air quality improvements from reduced fuel pollution as well as reduced risks of coastal and marine pollution from trans-shipment of fuels from tankers to shore," Ronneberg pointed out.

"It's a way for the Pacific to show that even though we contribute the least to greenhouse gas emissions but since we are the ones who are impacted first, we will lead and hold everyone else responsible to take similar actions."

The Low Carbon session was held on Day two of the Inaugural Pacific Resilience Meeting in Suva, Fiji.  The PRM is from 1 - 3 May, 2019....
For more information on low carbon development opportunities in the Pacific, please contact Espen Ronneberg at espenr at sprep.org<mailto:espenr at sprep.org>
For more information about the Pacific Resilience Meeting, please visit www.resilientpacific.org<http://www.resilientpacific.org>

Low Carbon Development shared the Pacific island way

SUVA, 03 MAY 2019 (SPREP) --- What does a globally renowned Pacific island comedian and low carbon development have in common?  Everything.

During the Inaugural Pacific Resilience Meeting in Suva, Fiji this week, Tofiga Fepulea'i, a Pacific entertainment icon was the moderator for key sessions, including that which focused on Low Carbon Development.

Bringing humour and the personal understanding of how climate change and low carbon development impacts him and his family has helped make a session which is often perceived as "technical", as an issue that we can all relate to.

"The response we got from people in the audience was amazing.  Low carbon development is a topic that belongs to us all in the Pacific, not just the practitioners or the experts - we all have a responsibility towards achieving a low carbon economy, because it just makes good sense," said Tagaloa Cooper, the Director of Climate Change Resilience of the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP).

"To inspire and effect change, people need information that speaks to their context, so if people understand issues such as climate change that they relate to and can link to their own setting." SPREP actively seeks to ensure this happens. This includes bringing a personality whom Pacific island people can relate to, to help raise awareness and engagement towards a low carbon future."

The Pacific island region contributes less than 0.03 per cent of the world's total greenhouse gas emissions yet are amongst the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.  Despite this, the Pacific island region is committed to transitioning to a low carbon economy - one in which we use less fossil fuel to generate energy.

A low carbon economy and development not only puts the region at the forefront of the fight against climate change but also brings a wide range of societal benefits including upskilling of the workforce, employment opportunities and reduces pollution.

"Being a part of this has really hit home how serious this issue is.  We need to work together to help Pasifika people across the world understand this message," said Tofiga Fepulea'i.

The comedic talents of Fepulea'i have entertained thousands over an 18-year career, in New Zealand, Australia, the Pacific islands, the United States of America and now the inaugural Pacific Resilience Meeting in Fiji.

"Living in New Zealand, I watch the news and see the stories about the impacts of climate change on our Pacific islands and I feel far removed from all of it, however I'm very happy to be here this week and to hear these stories firsthand and to really understand the magnitude of the problem we are currently facing."

Low carbon development, one of the three goals of the Framework for Resilient Development in the Pacific Islands helps bring the benefits of renewable energy to the remotest places while protecting our unique ecosystems.

To help bring it about and ensure the solutions to reducing our carbon emissions are sustainable, everyone needs to be involved - governments, the private sector, academics, regional partners, local Pacific governments, our young people - everyone.

"Low carbon development is important, however if we simplify the language the message will be well received by the mass," said Fepulea'i.

"I have learnt a lot spending time with the teams at the Pacific Resilience Week here in Suva and have had the issue explained to me in language I can understand and it has made a big impact on me.  Thank you to all of you for the work that you do."

The Low Carbon Development Session was held on Day 2 of the inaugural Pacific Resilience Meeting (PRM) in Suva Fiji.  The PRM is taking place from 1 - 3 May, 2019....

For more information www.resilientpacific.org<http://www.resilientpacific.org>

   Call for more youth involvement in low carbon developments and climate change at national, regional and global level


SUVA, 03 APRIL 2019 (SPREP) --- Young people have the potential and energy to be involved in low carbon development and climate change. All they need is the opportunity to be included and have their voices and perspectives heard.

This message was driven home by Genevieve Jiva, Pacific Island Climate Action Network Coordinator for Oxfam in the Pacific, on Day Two of the inaugural Pacific Resilience Meeting, which is taking place under the guidance of the theme "Youth Futures in a Resilient Pacific."

Jiva said issues such as low carbon development, climate change and resilience matter to young people because; put simply, "it is our future and the future of those who will come after us."

"We want to be given the chance to stay in our islands and to show our children where we grew up, and give them the opportunity to see the same beauty we see in our Pacific islands."

But she made clear that, while young people are willing and eager to be involved in this context, they need support from existing players in the forms of finance and resources, but even more crucially, an enabling environment for youth to be able to share their perspectives on these issues.

She spoke on the increase in youth activism in climate change seen around the world, and stated that the Pacific youth have been involved in climate change for many years, and that the worldwide engagement shows that there is now more recognition of the issues that Pacific islanders have been facing for years.

"Our young leaders are working to build a better future, but we have much to learn. We are learning everyday as we research, clean up, march, advocate, and we will win this fight - but not alone. We need those who have been part of this journey for years, elders, to fight for us and for those who will come after."

Jiva identified three simple yet significant actions that can be taken to ensure that young people are meaningfully engaged in this context.

The first was to include a youth representative on the Pacific Resilience Partnership Taskforce and secondly, to include at least one youth in all climate and resilience-related meetings, panels, seminars and workshops nationally, regionally and internationally to add a youth perspective which will greatly benefit the discussions.

Finally, she wanted to promote meaningful engagements and programmes to train young people on leadership issues along with experience in negotiations and prepare them to assume leadership roles and positions in the future. These programmes will provide young people with training and real-world experiences as well as the skill sets to be able to represent the Pacific and continue the fight for Pacific survival.

She concluded by saying, "Together, we can transition to a future where the Pacific still exists, because anything less is unacceptable." ...
For more information on the Pacific Resilience Meeting, please visit www.resilientpacific.org<http://www.resilientpacific.org>
PNG Launches Data Portal and Data Sharing Policy for the Environment

SUVA, 03 MAY 2019 (SPREP) --- The Papua New Guinea (PNG) environment landscape boasts a rich biodiversity with unique plants and animals supporting a culturally diverse indigenous population.

PNG national efforts continue to protect this pristine environment with the launch of two products to benefit the environment sector - the national data portal and the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA) data sharing policy.

The launch of the two products was an event coordinated by the CEPA with assistance of the SPREP Inform project and UNDP Cross Cutting Capacity Development (CCCD) project. The regional Inform project is funded by the Global Environment Fund (GEF), implemented by UN Environment and executed by SPREP.

The launch event was held on Friday 26 April 2019 at the Lamana Hotel attended by CEPA staff, seven government agencies and media organisations.

SPREP opening remarks acknowledged a successful partnership with UNDP and CEPA culminating in the launch of the two products with the aim to facilitate environment monitoring and reporting.

SPREP Inform Project Manager, Paul Anderson said, "SPREP is the regional agency for the environment in the Pacific - a key aspect of this work is supporting informed decision making at the national level, which is what brings us here today. Both globally and regionally, the sound management of national datasets, particularly in the environment sector, has lacked consistency and standardisation."

"I am pleased to be present with you all this morning for the official launch of these products, and am looking forward to see the avid use of both products by CEPA, and seeing the positive impact it will have on not just your work on environmental management, but seeing this emulated throughout other Inform Pacific Island countries," said Anderson.

UNDP assistance to CEPA helped fund the work to develop the environment data portal. Subsequent assistance from the Inform project helped built capacity and provided technical assistance to establish the PNG Data Portal.

SPREP said, "Originally the portal was designed as an environment data portal, however the portal can serve more than just CEPA, and thus was renamed the PNG Data Portal. Functionally, the portal allows for multi-sector, multi ministry access and collaboration. The portal is built on open source, well supported software, which are widely used by larger global and regional organisations for the very same purpose.

"The portal is now live and on-line, and is part of a region-wide data eco-system which supports data harvesting. The portal has the ability to publish content in addition to data, with the ultimate goal of informing decision making, through accurate and up to date data that is readily available and accessible."

Fulfilling country reporting obligations to international and regional environment conventions and agreements is facilitated with access to a central place for data. The establishment of national data portals as centralised repository of data will facilitate preparing country reports of their obligations to multilateral environment agreements, the Sustainable Development Goals, and others.

The Data Sharing Policy, the second product, an initiative of CEPA with assistance from the Inform project, is a platform providing guidelines to increase the sharing of data.

The policy will encourage the free exchange of data within the CEPA, with other government agencies and institutions within Papua New Guinea and with the public. This policy forms a key part of the CEPA's commitment to transparency, accountability and to its reporting obligations within Papua New Guinea and to international reporting to various multi-lateral environment agreements......
The PNG national data portal can be accessed in the link: https:\\png-data.sprep.org
The Inform project is helping establish environment data portals in Pacific island countries and territories supporting open data platforms. The project is housed with the Environmental Monitoring and Governance Programme at SPREP with funding from the Global Environment Fund, implemented by UN Environment and executed by SPREP.

To access the Regional Portal, visit: https:\\pacific-data.sprep.org
For more information on the Inform Project, contact Paul Anderson, Inform Project Manager on email: paula at sprep.org<mailto:paula at sprep.org>
To learn more about the Inform project, please visit http://www.sprep.org/inform/home

Tokelau launches 3-Day Women's Summit

ATAFU, 03 MAY 2019 (TOKELU GOVT) --- The Ulu o Tokelau, Kelihiano Kalolo officially launched Tokelau's inaugural Fatupaepape Summit in Atafu, Tokelau.

"I encourage the Fatupaepae of Tokelau to express wisely the main focus of the summit - the Tifa or Pearl," he challenged participants. "Because I believe, the strength of the House of Tokelau is determined by the strength of the living pearl."

He emphasised that the Tifa is an expression adopted by Tokelau to signify the importance of women, Fatupaepae, to the Tokelau culture, "Oooooooooo HE TIFA!"

The gathering over three days is linked to the Tokelau National Strategic Plan (2016-2020), and the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations Agenda2030 framework - specifically Goal 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.

The Summit will focus on three areas aimed at improving the welfare of Tokelau's women and young girls: (i) how to become responsible leaders within their families, villages, congregations and nation; (ii) more aware of available services and how to access them; and (iii) discuss new ideas and programs that will enable them to improve their quality of life at all levels.

First Lady, Atene Kalolo in her statement at the opening ceremony said, "Leadership today, whether in politics, public service, companies (HR), the Fatupaepae show they are needed for Tokelau to get there".

One of the key drivers for the summit has been the Administrator of Tokelau, Ross Ardern.

"As Administrator I had advocated quite strongly for the Fatupaepae to have the opportunity to be able to meet together and to be able to discuss issues at the forefront of their thinking," Ardern said from New Zealand.

"And I talk in particular about issues related to women's health, and education. About available opportunities to be engaged more deeply in political role on each of the atolls. These are some of the things I felt needed to have some breath, some air, some oxygen so that the women can sit in their own atolls first, discuss them and look for outcomes that they want to be able to present.

"I wish them well with it and I hope that it translates into meaningful activities when they come away from the summit and that they would be able to implement decisions to be able to continue with discussions around building their engagement and life on the atolls."

The summit ends on Friday, 3 May....

For more information contact:  Litia Maiava, Tokelau National Media Officer | Email: litia.maiava at tokelau.org.nz<mailto:litia.maiava at tokelau.org.nz>
Have a great Weekend!

Soloveni Vitoso
Public Relations & Communication Officer

Pacific Disability Forum
Ground Floor | Kadavu House
Victoria Parade | Suva
Fiji

Phone: (+679) 3312008  |  (+679) 3307530
Mobile: (+679) 8912656
Fax: (+679) 3310469
Skype: Soloveni.vitoso
Email: infor at pacificdisability.org<mailto:infor at pacificdisability.org>
Website: www.pacificdisability.org<https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http%3a%2f%2fwww.pacificdisability.org%2f&c=E,1,If0z8o95mb94uk4KDWU-Tr-TH_UiiV5O4Pz9J4TSREnERXcgdWH50W6mPnFuImIn8Qz_RAcGKmvccr0uiZ2ldgpjjWJ92jJPxU2DmShnGwI2-64RfMBtIfpnDFI,&typo=1>
Facebook: Pacific Disability Forum<https://www.facebook.com/PacificDisabilityForum/>
Twitter: @pdfsec

[cid:image003.jpg at 01D501B2.067EAFF0]

Organisation in special consultative status with the UN Economic and Social Commission since 2012.
The information contained in this email message is intended only for the addressee(s). If you are not the intended recipient, you must not use, disclose, copy or distribute this message or the information in it, including any attachments. If you receive this email in error please notify the sender immediately

-------------- next part --------------
An HTML attachment was scrubbed...
URL: <http://lists.pacificdisability.org/pipermail/pdflist_lists.pacificdisability.org/attachments/20190503/46ebf70a/attachment.html>
-------------- next part --------------
A non-text attachment was scrubbed...
Name: image003.jpg
Type: image/jpeg
Size: 9270 bytes
Desc: image003.jpg
URL: <http://lists.pacificdisability.org/pipermail/pdflist_lists.pacificdisability.org/attachments/20190503/46ebf70a/attachment.jpg>