Kiribati Tightens Laws on Terrorism Financing and Counter-Terrorism Efforts
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The Republic of Kiribati has amended its Measures to Combat Terrorism and Transnational Organised Crime Act 2005 in an effort to strengthen its combat against terrorism financing and transnational organised crime. The new law aims to implement legislative obligations imposed by several international counter-terrorism instruments.
Why the Amendments are Necessary
According to Attorney General Titabu Tabane, the amendments are necessary to update Kiribati’s laws and ensure compliance with global standards on terrorism financing and transnational organised crime. “This Act seeks to enhance our efforts in combating these threats by inserting new definitions, correcting drafting errors, and creating new offences,” he said.
New Definitions and Offences
The new law defines several key terms, including:
- BCN weapon: biological, chemical or nuclear weapons
- Biological weapon: any microbial or other biological agent designed for hostile purposes
The Act also creates new offences, including:
- Committing a terrorist act
- Terrorism financing
- Participation in a terrorist group
International Obligations
The amendments are aimed at implementing Kiribati’s obligations under several international conventions, including:
- International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism
- 2005 Protocol to the Convention for the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material
- 2005 Protocol to the Protocol for the Suppression of Unlawful Acts against the Safety of Maritime Navigation
Expected Impact
The new law is expected to strengthen Kiribati’s ability to combat terrorism financing and transnational organised crime, and enhance its cooperation with other countries in this area. “We are committed to working closely with our international partners to ensure that our efforts are effective and coordinated,” said Tabane.
Effective Date
The Measures to Combat Terrorism and Transnational Organised Crime (Amendment) Act 2008 comes into effect immediately, and is expected to have a significant impact on Kiribati’s counter-terrorism efforts.