The New Atoll

  • Dr. ‘Aisake Eke’s Journey to the helm of Tongan politics

    By Hans T Foliaki Tonga’s appointment of Dr. ‘Aisake Valu Eke as its new Prime Minister signals a pivotal moment for the Pacific Island nation, bringing fresh leadership during a period marked by economic recovery, climate challenges, and political change. Dr. Eke, a seasoned economist and former Minister of Finance,… Listen ⇢

  • Deep-Sea Ports Reshape Power Dynamics in the Pacific

    In the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, the development of deep-sea ports has become a new battleground for geopolitical influence, with major powers like China, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand vying for dominance. A new study by Vijay Naidu, Vasemaca Lutu, and Claire Asi, published in Pacific… Listen ⇢

  • Combatting Assumptions in Pacific Journalism

    Veteran Pacific island journalist comments on why the assumption of ignorance related to The Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project is as harmful as it’s critics Listen ⇢

  • Pacific Island Nations Urge Enhanced Climate Financing at COP29

    By Losa Huntington Pacific Island nations have issued a compelling call for increased climate financing at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29), emphasizing the existential threats posed by climate change to their survival. Representing the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), leaders from the region urged global powers to… Listen ⇢

  • New Zealand Navy Vessel Sinks in Samoa: Oil Spill ‘Probable’

    Apia : The New Zealand navy vessel that hit a reef off the south west coast of Upolu Island has sunk into the ocean and is not recoverable, Acting Samoa Prime Minister Tuala Tevaga Iosefo Ponafio said in a statement. “The possibility of an oil spill is high probable (sic).”… Listen ⇢

  • Japan Affirms Timely Support for Pacific Islands on Statehood Issues

    By Lagipoiva Cherelle Jackson in Tokyo As Japanese lawmakers were in the process of selecting a new prime minister, the Government of Japan reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Pacific island nations in their efforts to maintain statehood in the face of the climate crisis. During a briefing for journalists from… Listen ⇢

  • Small Island States Leaders Affirm Sovereignty Amid Rising Sea Levels

    New York: The 39 Presidents and Prime Ministers of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) announced a significant Declaration at the United Nations High-Level Meeting on Sea Level Rise on Wednesday, affirming their statehood and sovereignty in light of increasing climate threats. The Declaration states that, in accordance with… Listen ⇢

  • The Enduring Legacy of Epeli Hauʻofa: A Voice for the Pacific

    In the vast tapestry of Pacific literature, few voices resonate as powerfully as that of Epeli Hauʻofa. As we reflect on his contributions, it becomes increasingly clear that Hauʻofa was more than just a writer and anthropologist; he was a visionary who sought to redefine how we perceive the Pacific… Listen ⇢

  • Over 200 Unexploded Projectiles Removed From Honiara School

    HONIARA, Solomon Islands – Authorities have safely removed 202 unexploded ordnance from St. Nicholas Anglican College in Honiara, following a discovery that has renewed attention to the lingering dangers of World War II in the region. The Solomon Islands government confirmed that the ordnance, identified as U.S. projectiles, was uncovered… Listen ⇢