Suva, Fiji – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Pacific Office has announced a new study examining information pollution and hate speech in the Pacific region. The research is part of the European Union (EU) supported Pacific Digital Democracy Initiative (PDDI), which works to strengthen digital rights and democratic values across the Federated States of Micronesia, alongside Fiji, Solomon Islands, and Tonga.  

The study comes at a critical time when Pacific Islands are experiencing unprecedented growth in digital connectivity through major investments in submarine cables and satellite technology. While this digital expansion has dramatically improved internet access and connectivity, it has also created new challenges in managing online misinformation and hate speech.

"As Pacific nations embrace digital transformation, we must understand and address the growing challenges of online misinformation," said Team Leader – Effective Governance and Inclusive Growth with UNDP Pacific, Rustam Pulatov.  

"This research will help us develop evidence-based strategies to combat information pollution while protecting democratic values," he added.  

The study will focus on identifying key factors and actors involved in the spread of misinformation and hate speech across four Pacific Island Countries - Fiji, Tonga, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Solomon Islands. It brings together researchers, government officials, civil society organisations, academic institutions, and media to examine the following critical issues:

• Map information pollution patterns in the Pacific
• Identify key sources and spreaders of misinformation
• Analyse the impact of hate speech on local communities
• Recommend evidence-based solutions for addressing these challenges

Programme Manager at the European Union Delegation to the Pacific, Francesco Ponzoni, said:

"The European Union is proud to support this critical study under the Pacific Digital Democracy Initiative. Understanding and addressing the spread of online misinformation is vital to fostering open and resilient societies. We believe that the outcomes of this research will strengthen the foundations of democratic values, promote media literacy, and enhance the capacity of Pacific Island communities to navigate the challenges of the digital era.”

This study is part of PDDI's broader work to ensure Pacific Island nations can embrace digital transformation while maintaining strong democratic institutions and protecting human rights in the digital age.

The survey is available and open for submissions here.  

For further media enquiries please contact:

Risiate Biudole, Communications Analyst, UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji | (E) risiate.biudole@undp.org