Financial Crime World

Acting President of Court of Appeal Nauru Convenes International Anti-Corruption Summit

The InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa in Natadola, Fiji, hosted a high-level international anti-corruption summit on [date], presided over by the Acting President of the Court of Appeal, Nauru.

Keynote Sessions and Panel Discussions

Tax Evasion and Corruption

  • Mr. Mark Dixon, CEO of Fiji Revenue and Customs Service, delivered a keynote address on the importance of robust due diligence processes in minimizing corruption opportunities in public expenditure.
  • Highlights:
    • Emphasis on the need for effective governance structures to prevent corruption
    • Discussion on the role of tax authorities in combating corruption

Corruption versus Culture

  • Mr. John Hugani Kouni, Director General of Solomon Islands Independent Commission Against Corruption (SIICAC), discussed the complex issue of corruption versus culture.
  • Highlights:
    • Emphasis on the need for a nuanced understanding of the cultural context in which corruption occurs
    • Discussion on the importance of community-led initiatives to combat corruption

Enhancing Public Sector Integrity

  • Dr. Adam Graycar, Director of Stretton Institute at the University of Adelaide, Australia, presented on enhancing public sector integrity for sustainable development.
  • Highlights:
    • Emphasis on the need for effective governance structures, robust risk management systems, and transparent decision-making processes to prevent corruption
    • Discussion on the role of public servants in promoting integrity

Investigation and Prosecution Strategies

  • Experts shared their knowledge and experience from around the region on financial investigation, digital forensics, and the role of prosecutors in complex cases.
  • Highlights:
    • Emphasis on the importance of collaboration among law enforcement agencies and international organizations to combat corruption
    • Discussion on the need for effective investigation and prosecution strategies

Corruption Prevention Strategies

  • Experts discussed useful education approaches, risk assessments, and policy realignment to prevent corruption.
  • Highlights:
    • Emphasis on the importance of integrity and ethics in addressing corruption
    • Discussion on the role of civil society and international organizations in promoting anti-corruption efforts

Reflections from the Chair

The final session saw Mr. Epeli Sau, Senior Legal Officer at the Solicitor-General’s Office in Fiji, reflecting on the key takeaways from the summit.

  • Highlights:
    • Emphasis on the importance of collaboration among governments, civil society, and international organizations to combat corruption and achieve sustainable development
    • Discussion on the need for a sustained effort to address corruption

Conclusion

The summit concluded with a question-and-answer session, providing attendees with an opportunity to engage with the speakers and discuss the key issues raised during the event.

Covid-19 Safety Protocols

All Covid-19 safety protocols were strictly followed throughout the summit, including social distancing guidelines and face masks. The event was hosted by the InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa in Natadola, which has implemented robust health and safety measures to prevent the spread of the virus.