Fiji

Fiji is facing one of the fastest growing HIV epidemics in the world, with 1.226 cases in the first half of 2025; A new WHO study shows one of the cause is the rising reuse of needles and syringes for drug injection, mostly linked to methamphetamine use

Random Fiji Police sweeps in hotspot areas across urban centres are address the growing number of beggars and street children proving food rations; the operation begun weeks ago is continuing during the festive season

Skilled health workers from Fiji and other Pacific Island countries are now included in Pacific Australia Labor Mobility scheme: drawn to Australia to fill shortages in care sector for a much higher salary, they create a critical need of labor back home

Several correctional facilities in Fiji have been visited by Commonwealth Secretariat officials as part of preparations for the upcoming Commonwealth Justice Ministerial Meeting, which Fiji will host in February 2026

The Fiji Council of Social Services has voiced concern over the government’s recent restructuring of key ministries, warning that the changes could undermine progress on crucial development reforms

Justice Chaitanya Laksman, representing the Raiwaqa Crematorium Committee has called on lawmakers to incorporate cremation provisions into the Burial and Cremation Amendment, 2025, rather than leaving them to ministerial regulations

1.125 new teachers will be hired to join the 13.457 force serving across Fiji and Rotumaas; on World Teacher's Day, Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro announced it as part of efforts to strengthen Fiji’s education workforce and support quality learning

Sugarcane field burning should be minimised due to its environmental and health impacts on surrounding communities; farmers are urged to reduce the practice during World Ozone Day celebrations, highlighting the link with greenhouse gas emissions

Consumer Council of Fiji, Competition and Consumer Commission, Telecommunications Authority have partnered to address internet services after nationwide survey found unstable/slow connectivity, fluctuating prices, limited access in rural or maritime areas

Movie 'Bati' was screened at Whanau Marama New Zealand International Film Festival: it is the first ever Fijian feature film selected for NZIFF, filmed in Suva and the highlands of Namosi, with a Fijian cast and crew

Enabling ePassport access through New Zealand’s SmartGate system, in line with the arrangement already in place with Australia, has been proposed: it would streamline travel for Fijian passport holders and support more efficient border control processes

George “Fiji” Veikoso, a musician, a cultural icon, a voice for the people whose voice touched hearts across the Pacific and beyond has passed away; Polynesian Music has announced it on its social media page