With some Pacific Island nations only 15 feet above sea level, this part of the world is particularly vulnerable to the most subtle environmental changes — from coastline erosion to storm surge to rainfall — but also among the least able to respond. USAID builds self-reliance while fostering prosperity and regional stability by strengthening their ability to plan, finance and lead their own sustainable development. Our support improving the well-being of the Pacific’s diverse communities spans the Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.

DISASTER PREPAREDNESS, CLIMATE CHANGE AND ENVIRONMENT

USAID works with government partners and other stakeholders to draft and implement policies to achieve adaptation goals; access larger amounts of financing from international adaptation funds; and improve the skills and systems within each country to better manage and monitor adaptation projects. USAID also supports disaster preparedness, relief and reconstruction, and promotes biodiversity conservation and sustainable natural resource management in Papua New Guinea.

HEALTH

Papua New Guinea suffers from the highest rate of HIV/AIDS in the Pacific Islands. USAID works with the government and civil society to reduce HIV prevalence and prevent gender-based violence among vulnerable populations. USAID also partners with PNG to effectively respond to multidrug-resistant tuberculosis. To assist partner countries manage the pandemic, USAID is advancing internationally recognized infection prevention and control strategies, laboratory systems and case management strengthening efforts, and risk communication interventions with accurate information on COVID-19.

ECONOMIC GROWTH AND TRADE

USAID works with partners at the national, provincial, and community levels to advance the Solomon Islands’ economic competitiveness and inclusiveness with specific emphasis on the development of the agribusiness sector and improved natural resources governance.

DEMOCRACY AND GOVERNANCE

USAID reinforces the foundations of good governance in the region by encouraging all citizens — including women, youth and other marginalized groups — to participate in democratic processes. USAID also promotes government accountability and transparency by encouraging citizen engagement and implementation of effective policies.