Nuku'alofa, Tonga – In a continued commitment to combating corruption and strengthening democratic governance across the Pacific, the UN Development Programme (UNDP) has successfully conducted a series of workshops and strategic dialogues across Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Vanuatu.

The initiative, supported by the Government of the United Kingdom, marks a critical step in addressing systemic corruption challenges across Pacific Island Countries. These targeted workshops are part of a broader commitment to strengthening integrity institutions and operationalising the Teieniwa Vision – a landmark Pacific-wide initiative that unites regional countries in a coordinated fight against corruption.

In a boost to regional cooperation and collaboration, the initiative engaged with the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption for workshops conducted in Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, leveraging its robust regional expertise to strengthen institutional capacity and operational readiness.

The workshops convened a diverse range of participants from critical anti-corruption actors, including representatives from Anti-Corruption Agencies, Directors of Public Prosecutions, Ombudsman's Offices, Financial Intelligence Units, Attorney General's Offices, Ministries of Justice, Foreign Affairs, Police Forces, Audit Offices, and Leadership Commissions. The sessions were strategically designed to equip these key stakeholders with advanced tools and actionable strategies for identifying, investigating, and combating complex financial crimes, including bribery, fraud, economic misconduct, and the misuse of public funds.

The British High Commissioner to Tonga, Philip Malone, said support to combatting corruption in Tonga was key to ensuring equitable, sustainable development for all:

“The UK Government’s support for this initiative to strengthen operational, legislative and regulatory frameworks, reflects a fundamental belief that fighting corruption requires a united, comprehensive approach that empowers officials, engages communities, and strengthens civil society. Pacific Island Countries deserve nothing less than our full commitment to building transparent, accountable institutions that serve the interests of all people.”

Beyond operational training, the project prioritises prevention through the implementation of National Anti-Corruption Strategies and Corruption Risk Assessments in public institutions. By building robust policy frameworks and institutional processes, the project aims to mitigate corruption risks and foster sustainable governance practices.

Rustam Pulatov, Team Leader – Effective Governance and Inclusive Growth with UNDP Pacific said:

“We know full well that corruption diverts critical resources from vital public services, most often affecting those who are already marginalised. We must do better to ensure that nobody is left behind, and these workshops serve as a vital tool to ensure that integrity institutions are empowered to combat economic crimes and safeguard public funds for the benefit of all Pacific Island people.”

For further media enquiries please contact: Nick Turner – Strategic Communications and Advocacy Specialist | UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji | nicholas.turner@undp.org