Media leaders, broadcasters and development partners from across the Pacific region gathered in Port Moresby this week for the 2026 Pacific Media Partnership Conference, with a strong focus on strengthening regional collaboration, media sustainability and resilience in an increasingly complex digital environment.
Hosted by the National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) of Papua New Guinea in partnership with the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union (ABU), the two-day conference brings together representatives from public broadcasters, media organizations, governments and development agencies under the theme “Resilient Voices: Empowering Blue Pacific Media.”
In his opening address, NBC Managing Director Kora Nou welcomed delegates from across the Pacific, Australia and New Zealand, describing the conference as an important platform for dialogue and cooperation among media organizations facing common challenges.
“This gathering brings together some of the most influential voices in Pacific media at a time when our region faces both significant challenges and opportunities,” Nou said.
He highlighted the rapid technological changes affecting the media industry, including the rise of artificial intelligence, shifting audience expectations, economic pressures, and climate-related challenges.
Despite these obstacles, Nou said Pacific media organizations remain resilient because of their strong connection to local communities and cultures.
“As broadcasters and media practitioners, we play a critical role in informing our citizens, preserving our cultural identities, promoting democratic values and amplifying Pacific perspectives on issues that matter most to our people,” he said.
Nou also emphasized the importance of collaboration, innovation, and maintaining high journalistic standards as media organizations adapt to a changing landscape.
The conference opened with acknowledgements of several dignitaries unable to attend, including Papua New Guinea’s Minister for Information and Communications Technology, Peter Tsiamalili Jr., who was attending parliamentary business, and ABU Secretary-General Dr. Javad Mottaghi who was unable to travel due to a family matter.
Representing the ABU, Director of News Indra Singh, praised NBC for hosting the conference for the first time, calling it a significant milestone for PNG’s national broadcaster and a reflection of the growing influence of Pacific broadcasters within the wider Asia-Pacific media community.
Singh acknowledged the support of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), regional partners and local sponsors for helping delegates from across the Pacific attend the event.
“The theme speaks directly to the realities our Pacific members face every day,” Singh said.
He noted that media organizations across the region continue to operate in challenging environments marked by geographical isolation, limited infrastructure, climate vulnerability, declining revenues, and increasing digital competition.
“Yet despite these challenges, Pacific media continues to play a vital role in informing audiences, preserving culture and strengthening social cohesion.”
A key focus of the conference will be practical solutions to industry challenges, including sustainable business models, technological innovation, content partnerships and responsible reporting on sensitive social issues.
Singh also highlighted several firsts for the conference, including all-female discussion panels and the introduction of a content pitching session designed to encourage collaboration and move discussions toward concrete outcomes.
“We need to work together,” he said. “At times we must put aside our competitive nature and look at the best outcomes for all of us.”
Over the next two days, delegates will participate in workshops, masterclasses, panel discussions and networking sessions aimed at strengthening public-interest journalism and enhancing the long-term sustainability of Pacific media.
A call for continued support from international partners through capacity building, technology transfer and content exchange initiatives that amplify Pacific voices on regional and global issues.
