The Pacific is defined by its vast ocean, rich cultures and strong social foundations. Pacific peoples have long demonstrated resilience in the face of challenges, adapting and innovating to overcome obstacles that would overwhelm others.
But beneath the surface lies a pervasive problem that threatens the fabric of society around the world, and the Pacific Islands are no exception: corruption. This insidious force undermines trust, undermines public institutions and hampers development, making it harder for communities to thrive.
The everyday problems faced by Pacific communities, such as access to essentials such as water and healthcare, are exacerbated by corruption. Fighting corruption is therefore not just a matter of governance, but of survival.
There are many pieces to the puzzle when fighting corruption: strong laws and governance systems, accountability, public trust, and more. Learn why it is important to understand socioeconomic contexts when developing anti-corruption solutions and how the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is supporting the Pacific in combating this threat.
Understanding the context
Pacific Islanders also face the harsh reality of climate change, face development challenges due to their limited geographic size, and depend on limited resources. When developing solutions to combat corruption, it is critical to consider the unique circumstances in which many islanders live.
“The Solomon Islands are one of the least developed countries. We are very far behind,” says Gina Kekea, coordinator of the Pacific Anti-Corruption Journalists Network.
“We just want women and mothers to be able to shower comfortably at home. So that they don’t have to walk far to fetch water from streams.”
“It’s very hard for us. I feel for the women, especially if they are pregnant, when they try to get to a clinic or hospital. They have to ride a bumpy banana boat across the island.”
“Not everyone is the same size. It’s important to understand why things are the way they are.”
Gina also talks about how she advocates for the role of the media, reaching out to people in rural areas and teaching them the importance of speaking out.
“The constituency development funds in Solomon Islands, which are under the control of MPs, are actually meant for people in rural communities, but sometimes they don’t get that funding or support. People just tend to keep quiet.”
“My role is to educate and encourage them to voice their opinions. You know, it’s your money, it’s meant for you.”
“It is interesting to see that many women and people in rural communities are standing up and asking questions about public finances.”
“Sometimes you don’t know people, but they just come up to you and say ‘thank you’ for the work you’ve done. It makes you feel like you’ve made a difference in your life.”
A vision for a corruption-free Pacific
As the world grapples with escalating crises – raging conflict, a deteriorating climate and rising inequality – the Pacific offers lessons in solidarity, strength and resilience.
To combat the serious impacts of corruption in the Pacific, 18 Pacific Island countries are joining forces under the Teieniwa vision to combat corruption and address interconnected challenges within the framework of a regional anti-corruption platform.
To date, UNODC has established 10 regional anti-corruption platforms that now cover 88 jurisdictions worldwide. By creating opportunities to identify and better understand the complex challenges facing each region, UNODC can effectively support the regions in fulfilling their anti-corruption obligations.
“The regional platforms emerging around the world are more than just initiatives; they are powerful networks of action and cooperation. In the Pacific, the Teieniwa Vision is an example of how regional collective action can lead to common strategies and lay a foundation for transparency, accountability and good governance for the future,” says Masood Karimipour, UNODC Regional Representative for Southeast Asia and the Pacific.
