Financial Crime World

UNODC Concludes Week-Long Engagement in Kiribati to Combat Cryptocurrency Fraud and Corruption

Tarawa, Kiribati - The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) recently concluded a comprehensive week-long initiative in Kiribati aimed at supporting the implementation of its national anti-corruption strategy. As part of this effort, UNODC worked closely with local authorities to tackle the growing issue of cryptocurrency fraud and corruption in the Pacific Island nation.

Kiribati’s Efforts Against Corruption

Kiribati has been actively working to combat corruption since adopting its second National Anti-Corruption Strategy in July 2023. The strategy aims to empower the country’s anti-corruption efforts by fostering a cohesive approach to anti-corruption initiatives, while also highlighting the importance of integrity-building as a collective responsibility for society as a whole.

UNODC Initiative

In line with this vision, UNODC conducted a series of workshops and awareness-raising events in Tarawa from November 13th to 17th. These activities included:

  • The inaugural meeting of the Global Organization of Parliamentarians Against Corruption (GOPAC) Committee
  • Youth awareness-raises workshops with local organizations such as the Kiribati Family Health Association (KFHA)
  • Discussions with key institutions like:
    • Public Service Inspectors
    • Leadership Code Commission
    • Attorney General Office
    • Kiribati Police Service
  • A productive dialogue with the Private Sector, facilitated by the Kiribati Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), to identify priorities and foster collaboration
  • Constructive meetings and brainstorming sessions with the Auditor General
  • A discussion with the Ministry of Industry and Commerce

Outcomes

Through this collective effort, Kiribati is making significant progress in its fight against corruption and cryptocurrency fraud, highlighting the critical role played by stakeholder collaboration in constructing a transparent, accountable, and corruption-free future for the country.

By working together, Kiribati is demonstrating its commitment to building a better future for its citizens and contributing to the global efforts to combat corruption and promote integrity.