Suva, Fiji: In celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025, the UN Development Programme's (UNDP) Pacific Anti-Corruption Project, funded by the Government of the United Kingdom, has staged a regional webinar spotlighting the pivotal role women play in the fight against financial crimes in the Pacific.

The event highlighted the leadership, challenges, and contributions of women in FIUs, law enforcement, anti-corruption agencies, and prosecution bodies, aligning with ongoing efforts to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion in financial crime enforcement.

Women play a vital role in key integrity institutions in the Pacific, particularly in financial crime investigations and enforcement. The webinar aimed to address the challenges faced by women professionals in combating money laundering and corruption, while identifying actionable steps to enhance their representation and leadership in the sector.

Josh Kemp, Counsellor – UK Integrated Security Fund Pacific Programme with the British High Commission to Fiji, said: 

“Women play a vital role in fostering transparency and enhancing accountability, bringing unique perspectives and leadership that drive effective and inclusive solutions. This webinar – and the UK’s support toward anti-corruption efforts at-large across the Pacific – is testament to our commitment to supporting gender equality and empowering women to lead the charge against corruption and financial misconduct.”

Florica Dragomir, Project Manager with UNDP’s Pacific Anti-Corruption Project, added:

“Gender equality is not just a fundamental human right, but a necessary foundation for a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable Pacific region. By empowering women and ensuring their active participation in key integrity institutions, we strengthen our collective ability to uphold accountability and transparency.”

The webinar was organised by UNDP Pacific, in collaboration with Asia Pacific Group on Money Laundering.

For more information contact:

Nick Turner | Strategic Communications and Advocacy Specialist, UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji | nicholas.turner@undp.org