Author: TMC Palau

In a new Development Policy Centre discussion paper, we examine how institutional design shapes patterns of cooperation, competition and conflict in developing countries, focusing on civil service administration in Afghanistan (2001-2021) and Papua New Guinea since independence in 1975. A central message of our research is that institutions are not neutral containers of governance. They create incentives. And in fragile or politically complex contexts, those incentives can just as easily produce conflict as cooperation. A common starting point in development policy is that strengthening institutions — for example, civil service commissions or administrative rules — may improve governance outcomes. Our…

Adm. Samuel J. Paparo, commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, visited the Republic of Palau to meet with senior government officials, tour a rehabilitated strategic airfield, and honor American service members who fought and died on this island more than 80 years ago. Paparo met with Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. to reaffirm the longstanding bilateral partnership between the United States and the Republic of Palau. The two leaders discussed the Compact of Free Association, the legal and diplomatic framework that underpins the relationship between the two nations. The 2023 Compact Review Agreement, which entered into force in 2024, commits $889…

Coordinator Shamima Ali says the centre’s support for the pro-Palestine movement reflects its long-standing advocacy for justice and human dignity. [Photo: FILE] The Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre says its support for Palestine is consistent with its long history of speaking out on human rights issues globally. Coordinator Shamima Ali says the centre’s support for the pro-Palestine movement reflects its long-standing advocacy for justice and human dignity, both in Fiji and internationally. Ali also questioned the timing of Israel’s decision to open an embassy in Fiji, saying it comes as Israel faces growing international criticism. FWCC’s position is not about targeting…

The organization says international democratic standards discourage major changes to electoral systems less than a year before an election. [Photo: FILE] Dialogue Fiji has raised concerns over comments by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka indicating that Fiji’s ongoing constitutional review could include changes to the country’s electoral system. The organisation says changing electoral rules this close to the next general election could undermine electoral integrity and public confidence. Dialogue Fiji adds that the election campaign period has already been declared and political parties are actively recruiting candidates, raising funds and preparing campaign strategies under the current electoral system. It argues that…

Issued by: on KOROR, Republic of Palau – U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Josh Lasky, commander, Joint Task Force-Micronesia, delivers remarks for the Palau Community College commencement ceremony in Koror State in the Republic of Palau, May 15. “Your education has prepared you to lead in a complex and changing world,” Lasky told graduates. “Whether you enter public service, military service, private industry, or continue your studies, remember that part of your contribution will be remembering what it means to be Palauan.”Lasky serves as the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command Senior Military Officer for…

ANI | Updated: Jun 04, 2026 18:47 IST Taipei [Taiwan], June 4 (ANI): Palau has continued to stand by Taiwan despite sustained pressure from China, which has allegedly used economic coercion, cyberattacks, and criminal influence operations in an effort to force Palau to sever diplomatic ties with Taipei, as reported by The Taipei Times.According to The Taipei Times, Taiwan’s Presidential Office announced that Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim would travel to Palau from Saturday through Wednesday next week at the invitation of President Surangel Whipps Jr Whipps has repeatedly stated that Beijing has urged Palau to abandon Taiwan. Speaking in an…

[ Source: Ministry of Agriculture/ Facebook ] A 30,000-dollar grant from the Young Entrepreneurship Scheme has helped a young entrepreneur open a new pet care facility in Nakasi. The center offers grooming, boarding, daycare, and training, alongside specialized pet cremation, food supply, and international travel assistance. Owner Charlotte Kumar says the grant provided the foundation needed to establish the business. “The generous grant of $30,000 was the vital spark that allowed us to transition from a passionate idea into a fully equipped reality.”Article continues after advertisement The business was established after years of training and industry experience, driven by a…

Members of Nabua’s U18 side with Serevi during his visit to the school today Nabua Secondary School was buzzing with excitement this morning as the “King of 7s” paid a special visit and donated sporting equipment to the school’s under-18 boys side. Nabua U18 head coach Inoke Loaloa says Serevi’s donation was a timely one, as the lack of equipment is one of the biggest challenges they face. Coach Inoke Loaloa says having one of the greatest 7s players ever come visit their team will be something his players will always remember. Despite facing numerous challenges ahead of the Dean’s…

Overview: Pacific communities are taking energy security into their own hands as rising fuel costs drive a shift toward renewable energy. Leaders from Fiji, Tuvalu and Vanuatu have completed hands-on solar technology training aimed at helping communities reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels and build long-term energy resilience. SUVA, 01 JUNE 2026 (FIJI SUN)—A deepening global fuel crisis is pushing Pacific communities towards energy independence, with leaders from Fiji, Tuvalu and Vanuatu training in solar technology to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels.  With fuel and electricity costs rising across the Pacific, 15 community representatives gathered in Wailoaloa, Nadi, last…

[Photo: FILE] The Ministry of Finance says funds for bus operators under the government’s fare subsidy scheme are being released and will be paid out tomorrow. The update comes after concerns were raised by the Fiji Bus Operators Association President Nisar Ali Shah, over delayed payments and ongoing cash flow pressure in the industry. “As you know, the fuel price has gone up 100% from April, which gives the bus companies a very difficult position because the fuel price is so high that, you know, it’s uneconomical to run most of the trips.” The support package includes a 10 percent…