Jessica Stone

World’s largest coral discovered in Solomon Islands

The undersea mass in the Pacific Ocean is so big it can be seen from space

In photos: World’s largest coral discovered in Solomon Islands

Fiji market offers safety, opportunity for women

In Fiji, women comprise only 34% of the labor force and face staggering rates of violence. Yet, a unique market in Suva is aiming to change that by providing safety and economic opportunities for women. Discover how this initiative is empowering lives and sparking hope.

Florida residents take shelter, lean on federal program for assistance

When major disasters like hurricanes and floods hit the United States, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, coordinates major rescue efforts that would overwhelm local officials. VOA’s Jessica Stone reports on how the agency works.

Conservative think tank pushes US to continue engagement in Pacific

Heritage Foundation argues Pacific Islands are critical to US security

US Congress finalizes security pact with Pacific Island allies

After a series of false starts, a critical Pacific security pact can be implemented

Push for renewable energy sparks new environmental worries

According to the International Energy Agency, the world now invests almost twice as much in clean energy as it does in fossil fuels. But with that shift comes environmental risks related to the mining of critical minerals. VOA’s Jessica Stone looks at how nations are navigating the challenges.

Debate churns over mining Pacific seabed for green-energy minerals

People from across the globe are convening on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly in New York City for Climate Week. On the agenda: the environmental impact of seabed mining. The discussion comes as tech companies seek ways to fuel the green revolution while minimizing environmental impacts.

Climate week talks to include critical minerals and seabed mining debate

Technology companies seek environmentally-friendly approach to seabed mining

Six months on, key measures languish in Pacific Islands pact with US

US military veterans across Pacific Islands still wait for promised benefits

US-China rivalry on display at gathering of Pacific Islands leaders

The US backs Taiwan's participation in the Pacific Islands Forum after a China-supported move to remove references to Taiwan in a meeting communique

VOA Asia Weekly: Remembering the Nagasaki and Hiroshima Bombings 79 Years Ago

Remembering Nagasaki and Hiroshima 79 Years On. Bangladesh swears in interim government. Cambodia breaks ground on controversial canal. Thailand's Move Forward Party dissolved. Palauan athlete follows mom to Olympics.

Teacher using technology to overcome Pacific Islands education gaps

Teacher pioneers distance learning for Pacific Islands. VOA’s Jessica Stone has her story. Camera: Riya Nathrani

Guam undergoes military buildup without additional border resources

Guam officials want more officers at the border to counter known Chinese security threat. VOA’s Jessica Stone reports

Solomon Islands elections watched closely for international impact

In the Solomon Islands – officials are counting ballots in key elections held on April 17. It’s the first poll since the strategic Pacific country signed a security pact with China. And who wins may well dictate whether it will draw closer to Beijing or Washington. VOA’s Jessica Stone reports.

Marine protected areas boost local economies, study finds

But banning fishing and other human activity in vast swaths of the world’s oceans has long been controversial 

US Scientists: World on Verge of Historic Coral Bleaching

Pacific leaders are on high alert after U.S. scientists warned that the world is nearing a historic mass coral bleaching brought on by high water temperatures fueled by climate change. VOA’s Jessica Stone reports. (Produced by Jessica Stone)

Pacific Allies React to Final Security Pact Funding Approval

Palau President Surangel Whipps says funding makes it possible to build stable economy. VOA’s Jessica Stone reports. Camera: Jessica Stone, Greg Harong

Palau’s President Relieved by Security Pact Funding Approval

Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. says funding makes it possible to build stable economy.

Bill to Fund US Government Includes Money to Counter China in Pacific

Three Pacific allies would get vital economic aid, if bill passes.