UN General Assembly (UNGA) in New York: The UNGA continues Friday with major Manhattan security and traffic disruptions, including a citywide gridlock alert and multiple East Side street closures through Saturday evening, as world leaders and dignitaries arrive amid heightened tensions. Pacific health resilience: A UN policy brief says many Pacific Small Island Developing States still have big gaps in social protection coverage—below 30% in places including Kiribati—leaving people more exposed to climate disasters and food, fuel, and energy price shocks; it argues social protection helps prevent poverty and supports health and education during crises. Kiribati development and social protection: A Kiribati-focused piece links poverty reduction to the country’s social protection approach, funded in part by fishing licence revenue, framing social protection as central to keeping gains. Pacific climate threat explainer: Another report highlights how sea level rise is accelerating and is already reshaping livelihoods and cultures, with leaders set to discuss “existential threats” at the UN. Regional capacity building (health-adjacent): India’s placement on the Pacific Islands Forum “strategic partner stream” includes cooperation areas such as healthcare and capacity building, with proposals for tailored training for Pacific professionals.