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Solomon Islands Embark on Anti-Corruption Journey: Defining and Preventing Embezzlement

As the country marks International Anti-Corruption Day, efforts to combat corruption are gaining momentum in Solomon Islands. Despite a reputation for complacency, citizens have come together with UNDP’s Transparency and Accountability for People of Solomon Islands project to fight embezzlement and promote transparency.

Nudge Behaviors: Official Commitments Can Impact Actions

Philip Ariki, head of the Department of Business and Management at Solomon Islands National University, has collected over 1,000 signatures against corruption during the university’s orientation week. The Vice-Chancellor, Acting Dean, and professors joined students in promising not to bribe, take a bribe, or engage in corruption.

Accountability 101: Holding People Accountable for Promises

  • John and his WEKAP group from West Are’Are, a constituency near Honiara, have successfully demanded signed political and integrity commitments from candidates running in their constituency. A staggering 40% of them agreed to sign.

Bringing Investigative Journalism Back into the Spotlight

Francisca Tamu and her team at the Media Association of Solomon Islands have published ten stories on corruption last year, featuring real-life cases with multiple sources, including integrity agencies. Their reporting has had a significant impact on the country.

Power of the People: Changing Perceptions About Public and Civil Society

  • Karl, James, and Lovelyn, who came together through UNDP’s anti-corruption project, have been working tirelessly to promote transparency. They documented the history of the Anti-Corruption Act, highlighting its significance in Solomon Islands’ fight against corruption.

Heroes, Hope, and a Great Night: The Solomon Islands Anti-Corruption Film Festival

Philip, Regina, and the Pacific Youth Forum Against Corruption (PYFAC) have organized the first Solomon Islands Anti-Corruption Film Festival. The event features Hollywood movies about whistleblowing and documentaries on villas built on school grounds, followed by heated discussions about leadership and accountability.

Can a Gift Make Me Corrupt? A Clearer Picture of the Penal Code

Jennifer Wate, head of Development Services Exchange, has compiled a colorful guide to corruption offences, featuring cartoons that clarify what constitutes corruption in Solomon Islands.

Tracking the Trickle Down: Corruption’s Impact on Communities

  • Selwyn and his team have documented the impact of corruption from the perspective of its silent victims. They collected testimonials from over 1,000 rural community members in Makira Province, highlighting how corruption affects schools, health, transport, communication, and the environment.

What’s Next?

UNDP Solomon Islands is launching the full-scale phase of its anti-corruption project on May 1, building on the ideas and partnerships established with champions like those mentioned above. The aim is to change perceptions about civil society and citizens in Solomon Islands and challenge the culture of impunity by promoting accountability.