Resettlement of people displaced by the consequences of climate change was highlighted as a major concern for churches at a gathering of ecumenical representatives from Asia and the Pacific region.

Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu has flown to the Solomon Islands to launch a Truth and Reconciliation Commission, modelled on the body he chaired in South Africa to tackle crimes and injustices under the former the apartheid regime.

Three human rights organizations have urged the US government and Congress to investigate and act on the continued, disturbing violations of human rights in West Papua.

One of the world's smallest nations, Tuvalu, has a big problem. Slowly, but surely, it is "going under" the relentless waves of the Pacific. Tuvaluans know it, but they don't accept that sinking is their ultimate fate.

Climate change, its causes and consequences as well as the role of churches worldwide, are at the centre of a 7-14 July 2008 visit to the Pacific region by World Council of Churches general secretary the Rev Dr Samuel Kobia.

Churches around the world will pray for the Pacific as an international church initiative against violence focuses attention on the region this year. Pacific churches themselves will work together on how best to promote peace.

The head of the World Council of Churches has sent a message of encouragement to the Pacific Conference of Churches in advance of its 9th assembly gathering, due to take place 2-8 September 2007 at the Kanana Fou Theological Seminary.