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: 23 March 2026

Pacific Legal Experts Convene in Port Vila to Strengthen Cybercrime Laws

Port Vila, 23-03-2026: Legal experts from across the Pacific region have gathered in Port Vila for a three-day regional workshop focused on strengthening cybercrime legislation and improving regional cooperation in tackling digital threats.

The workshop, convened under the Pacific Islands Law Officers’ Network (PILON), brings together government lawyers, prosecutors, policymakers, and technical specialists to address the growing challenges posed by cybercrime in Pacific Island countries.

As digital technologies continue to expand across the region, so too do the risks associated with cyber threats, including online fraud, identity theft, and cyber-enabled transnational crime. Participants at the workshop are working collaboratively to identify gaps in existing legal frameworks and share best practices for strengthening national responses.

A key outcome of the workshop is the development of a practical Cybercrime Legislation Implementation Handbook, designed to support Pacific Island countries in effectively applying and enforcing cyber laws. The handbook will serve as a guide for legal practitioners and policymakers, offering tools, model provisions, and practical strategies tailored to the unique legal and institutional contexts of the Pacific.

Speaking at the opening of the workshop, officials emphasized the importance of regional collaboration in addressing cybercrime, noting that digital threats often cross borders and require coordinated legal responses.

“Cybercrime is a rapidly evolving challenge that no country can tackle alone. This workshop highlights the importance of regional cooperation and shared expertise in building resilient legal systems that can respond effectively to these threats,” a PILON representative said.

Participants also discussed the need to align national legislation with international standards while ensuring that laws remain practical and enforceable within local contexts. The workshop further aims to strengthen partnerships among Pacific nations, enabling faster information sharing and coordinated action against cybercriminal activities.

The Government of Vanuatu, as host of the workshop, reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing cybersecurity and supporting regional initiatives that promote safe and secure digital environments for all Pacific communities.

The three-day workshop concluded with a set of key recommendations that will inform ongoing efforts by PILON and its partners to support cybercrime law reform and implementation across the Pacific region.

: 23 March 2026

Experienced Prosecutor Simcha Blessing Boe Appointed to Lead Vanuatu’s Justice System

Port Vila, 23 March 2026: Vanuatu’s justice sector enters a new chapter with the appointment of Simcha Blessing Boe as Public Prosecutor, bringing with him years of proven legal expertise, a strong track record in tackling complex criminal cases, and a deep commitment to upholding the rule of law across the nation.

“Give to Gain”: CSU Staff Unite to Celebrate International Women’s Day

In recognition of the strength, sacrifices, and achievements of women, staff of the Corporate Services Unit (CSU) at the Vanuatu Ministry of Justice and Community Services gathered last week to celebrate International Women’s Day 2026 under the inspiring theme “Give to Gain.” The occasion served as a moment to honour the powerful role women play in nurturing families, shaping communities, and contributing to the growth of the nation.

Newly Appointed Parole Board Members in Santo Undergo Induction Training

Luganville, 10-03-2026: Newly appointed Community Parole Board members for Sanma Province have successfully completed an induction training in Luganville aimed at strengthening their understanding of the parole system and their important role within Vanuatu’s correctional and criminal justice framework.

The training provided participants with essential knowledge on the responsibilities and functions of the Community Parole Board, the legal framework that guides its work, and the broader correctional and community justice systems in Vanuatu. It also covered key aspects of community supervision, the role of Community Justice Supervisors, community-based sentencing options, and the operational processes of correctional centres.

The Santo Community Parole Board members who attended the training included Chief Andrew Tari, the appointed permanent member, Chief Jean Claude, the newly appointed alternate member, and Mrs Wareka Mera, who was reappointed by the Minister of Justice in 2025. Mrs Mera is one of the pioneer members of the Community Parole Board and has served since 2007. Another alternate member, Mrs Renata Netaf, was unable to attend the training as she was in Port Vila but is expected to complete the induction shortly.

The training also focused on the key legislative framework governing correctional services, particularly the Correctional Services Act No. 10 of 2006 and its Amendment Act No. 13 of 2007. Participants engaged in discussions on their roles, responsibilities, and expectations as members of the Community Parole Board. At the conclusion of the program, certificates were presented to participants in recognition of their successful completion of the induction training.

Following the training, the Santo Community Parole Board convenes its first sitting for the year on 6 March 2026.

The Director of the Vanuatu Correctional Services, Johnny Marango emphasized the significance of the parole system in strengthening good governance and accountability within the country’s justice system.

“Parole supports good governance and accountability in Vanuatu by promoting transparency, oversight, and responsible management within the criminal justice system. By allowing supervised early release of eligible offenders, parole ensures that decisions are based on clear criteria and regular monitoring. This enhances accountability while encouraging rehabilitation and successful reintegration of offenders back into the community,” the Director stated.

He added that the parole system also contributes to reducing repeat offending and helps strengthen trust between government institutions and the wider community.

Director Marango further confirmed that induction workshops are currently being conducted across the country for newly appointed Community Parole Board members. Similar training has already been completed for Shefa and Sanma provinces, while the next induction workshop for Tafea Province is scheduled to take place at the end of March 2026.

: 03 March 2026

Malvatumauri Takes National Chiefs Day to the Provinces for the First Time

Port Vila,02-03-2026: Vanuatu will mark National Chiefs Day this year under the powerful theme “Decolonizing Mindsets” — a call for the nation to reflect deeply on its identity, values and future direction. While the country achieved political independence in 1980, the Chairman of the Malvatumauri National Council of Chiefs says true independence goes beyond self-governance; it requires freeing our thinking, systems and daily practices from lingering colonial influence and reaffirming the strength of kastom as the foundation of nationhood.