Overview:
The Pacific Freedom Forum has condemned the alleged assault of senior Papua New Guinea journalist Rebecca Kuku, calling it a “shocking attack on press freedom.” Kuku, a respected reporter known for her coverage of governance and gender-based violence, says she was verbally abused, punched from behind, and threatened by officers of the Papua New Guinea Correctional Service while seeking comment on human rights concerns at Bomana prison. PFF is demanding a swift and transparent investigation, warning that intimidation of journalists — especially women reporters — undermines democracy and accountability across the Pacific.
SUVA, Fiji (March 2, 2026) — The Pacific Islands News Association and the Fijian Media
Association on Monday announced that the 8th Pacific Media Summit will take place Sept.
21–25, 2026, in Savusavu, Fiji.
The biennial regional gathering will convene under the theme “Reaching the Remote: Media and Digital Innovation for a Connected Blue Pacific.” Organizers expect 150 to 200
delegates, including journalists, editors, media executives, academics, development partners and donors from across the Pacific.
The announcement marks a key date for the region’s media sector, as the summit is widely
regarded as the Pacific’s flagship forum for strengthening professional standards, promoting collaboration and advancing independent journalism.
Organizers said the 2026 theme underscores the urgency of expanding reliable information
access to remote and underserved island communities through strong, independent and
innovative media systems. It also highlights the need for resilient, disaster-ready communication networks and greater investment in emerging technologies to support a more connected and inclusive Blue Pacific.
PINA President Kalafi Moala described the summit as critical at a time of rapid digital
transformation and mounting regional challenges.
“The Pacific Media Summit continues to be our region’s most important platform for
strengthening media solidarity and innovation, ensuring that even the most remote
communities are connected, informed and heard,” Moala said in a statement.
FMA General Secretary Stanley Simpson said Fiji is preparing to host the regional gathering in Savusavu, located on the island of Vanua Levu.
“We look forward to welcoming our Pacific colleagues to Savusavu as we explore how media
and digital innovation can better serve our island communities and advance a truly connected
Blue Pacific,” Simpson said.
The summit will feature panel discussions, keynote addresses, technical workshops and
networking sessions. Topics are expected to include digital transformation, media sustainability, emerging technologies, press freedom, climate reporting and inclusive storytelling in remote island communities.
The previous Pacific Media Summit was held in Niue in September 2024, continuing the
tradition of rotating the event among Pacific Island countries to promote inclusive regional
participation.
Organizers said further details on registration and the program agenda will be released in the coming months.