Financial Crime Awareness Training Boosts Capacity in Cook Islands

The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) of the Cook Islands has taken a proactive approach to ensure compliance with international anti-money laundering and terrorism financing standards. One critical aspect of this approach is Financial Crime Awareness training for the general public.

UNODC Computer-Based Training (CBT) Program

• In 2004, the Cook Islands FIU became one of the first countries to pilot the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) CBT program [CBT Program for Money Laundering Education]
• An updated CBT system was introduced in 2011, expanding its scope to include programs related to transnational crimes like smuggling and border security

Key Features of the UNODC CBT Program

• Encompasses 90 modules, available in 18 languages
• Over 300 established training centers across 52 countries, with more than 100 located in East Asia and the Pacific

Impact of the CBT Program in the Cook Islands

• Over 100 people from various sectors, including the public, private, and non-profit domains, have completed the CBT program in the Cook Islands since its launch
• Accessible to anyone, including interested members of the general public

Community Workshops for Non-Profit Organizations (NPOs)

• Designed to educate and inform NPOs about the increasing threats of transnational organized crimes
• Empowers these groups with essential knowledge and resources
• Strengthens the collective capacity to combat financial crimes and ensure the stability and security of the nation

For further information, please contact the Cook Islands FIU at June@cifiu.gov.ck