As great power rivalry intensifies in the Pacific, stronger regional cooperation could help small island states protect their sovereignty and avoid becoming dependent on larger powers.
More than 1,500 vessels stranded by the Strait of Hormuz blockade risk spreading invasive marine species when they resume voyages, posing a wider biosecurity threat.
Researchers found that people in poorer communities face a far higher risk of death from diseases after typhoons – with limited healthcare access and flooding from heavy rainfall worsening the impacts.