Decolonisation Pressure: Kanaky civil society groups urged Pacific Islands Forum leaders in Palau to back stronger decolonisation, human rights and self-determination, warning France is pushing a “facade narrative” that hides alleged violations since the May 2024 unrest. ICJ Showdown: Vanuatu has filed at the International Court of Justice to challenge French sovereignty over Umaenupne (Matthew) and Umaeneag (Hunter) and to settle a single maritime boundary tied to New Caledonia—while the court won’t act unless France accepts its jurisdiction. Forum Security Debate: Civil society is calling for meaningful consultation on proposed changes to the region’s security architecture, including the Joint Heads of Pacific Security (JHoPS) network that links police, military and intelligence across Pacific states. Deep-Sea Mining Tension: American Samoan youth and environmental advocates confronted the NOAA research ship Okeanos Explorer, saying science should protect the deep ocean but questioning a mission tied to future commercial deep sea mining leases. Local Skills & Entrepreneurship: The College of New Caledonia is launching an entrepreneur mentorship program this fall to connect students with experienced business leaders, workshops and one-on-one guidance as they move into work or self-employment.