Weekly Covid Update

Unofficial border crossings remain a key concern for those attempting to control COVID-19 in the Pacific, whilst the economic fallout of the pandemic is beginning to be felt, writes Hugh McClure.

Guam and French Polynesia have been the two Pacific territories most affected by the second wave of COVID-19, but their governments’ responses have been starkly different, whilst Vanuatu has given the green-light for seasonal workers, writes Hugh McClure. 

The pandemic has caused tension between Papua New Guinea (PNG) and China, whilst Australia’s Seasonal Worker Program with Vanuatu looks set to recommence, writes Hugh McClure.

A COVID-19 second wave has rocked much of the Pacific, whilst Australia and Vanuatu have met to discuss economic partnerships, writes Hugh McClure.

COVID-19 cases in Papua New Guinea (PNG) have risen rapidly this week, whilst any hopes of a Pacific ‘tourism bubble’ have been dashed, writes Hugh McClure.