Human Decency & Campus Discipline: Commentaries warn PNG’s “basic decency” is eroding in everyday life, while UPNG is urged to act firmly after a violent student brawl. Political Accountability: A call to reduce the number of parties argues PNG’s crowded party system weakens voter accountability and fuels party hopping. Cost of Living & GST Impact: A study says the GST cut on 10 household goods delivered only about eight toea per kina to the poorest 20%, with stores and informal buying limiting benefits. El Niño Crisis: PNG has declared a national humanitarian emergency as drought dries water sources, threatens food and health, and drives load-shedding in Port Moresby. Water & Power Alarm: Sirinumu Dam is down to 53%, forcing heavier power cuts until conditions improve. Housing for Police: Police secured 100 allotments under a MoA with the National Housing Corporation to move officers from temporary housing to home ownership. Bougainville Governance: ABG officials visit New Ireland to study legislative structures and administrative systems. Climate Diplomacy: Pre-COP leaders, including PNG PM Marape, press for climate finance and practical solutions; PNG also pledges K25m over five years to Tuvalu for coastal adaptation and land reclamation. Health Demand in NCD: NCD health facilities recorded 279,000+ patient visits in the first half of 2026. Sports & Youth: PNG’s Kumuls named for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup; Western Highlands registers 15,000 disengaged youth under a national engagement strategy.