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Kiribati Takes Significant Step in Fight Against Corruption with UNODC Support

Background

Tarawa, Kiribati - The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has concluded a comprehensive week-long engagement with Kiribati to support the implementation of its national anti-corruption strategy. The Pacific nation is committed to combating and preventing corruption within its borders, having adopted its second National Anti-Corruption Strategy in July 2023.

Objectives

The overarching objective of Kiribati’s strategy is to empower the country in its fight against corruption while fostering a cohesive approach to anti-corruption initiatives. The strategy outlines how various laws, governance institutions, and reform programs collaborate to achieve improved anti-corruption outcomes.

Key Components

  • Empowering the country in its fight against corruption
  • Fostering a cohesive approach to anti-corruption initiatives
  • Collaboration among various laws, governance institutions, and reform programs

Partnerships

Kiribati’s efforts align with the Teieniwa Vision, which emphasizes that integrity-building is a collective responsibility for society as a whole. Civil society organizations (CSOs), youth groups, and the private sector are recognized as crucial partners in promoting transparency, accountability, and public awareness in the fight against corruption.

Key Partners

  • Civil society organizations (CSOs)
  • Youth groups
  • Private sector
  • Kiribati Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI)

UNODC Support

In line with the Pacific Islands Forum 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, which underscores the need for enhanced collaboration and cooperation, UNODC conducted a week-long program from November 13th to 17th in Tarawa, Kiribati. The activities included:

Workshops and Meetings

  • Inaugural meeting of the Global Organization of Parliamentarians Against Corruption (GOPAC) Committee
  • Youth awareness-raising workshops with the Kiribati Family Health Association (KFHA)
  • Workshops with key institutions such as:
    • Public Service Inspectors
    • Leadership Code Commission
    • Attorney General Office
    • Kiribati Police Service

Progress and Collaboration

The engagement also involved a fruitful discussion with the Private Sector, facilitated by KCCI, to identify priorities and foster collaboration. The week-long program featured constructive meetings and brainstorming sessions with:

Key Stakeholders

  • Auditor General
  • Ministry of Industry and Commerce

Kiribati’s efforts demonstrate significant progress in its collective stand against corruption, highlighting the pivotal role played by collaboration among stakeholders in constructing a future for Kiribati that is transparent, accountable, and free from corruption.