Meth crisis response: The Pacific Security College is calling for a Pacific-wide summit next year to tackle a fast-growing methamphetamine problem that’s now driving HIV spread, straining health and justice systems, and fueling violence and social breakdown. It says enforcement alone won’t fix it, urging a coordinated push led by the Pacific Islands Forum with health services, police, community leaders, and civil society working together. Niue government update: Niue has named a new four-member Cabinet after its election, keeping gender balance and confirming Dalton Tagelagi as Prime Minister, with portfolios spanning security, finance, foreign affairs, justice, environment, agriculture, and more. Regional politics context: The Pacific Islands Forum meeting in Palau later this year is expected to carry major geopolitical weight as China and the US compete for influence across the Pacific. Family policy backdrop: Earlier coverage highlighted how expanding parental leave can improve maternal and infant health, mental wellbeing, and gender equity—though implementation gaps remain a concern.