Financial Crime World

UNODC Concludes Week-Long Engagement with Kiribati to Support Anti-Corruption Efforts

Tarawa, Kiribati - A Major Push Against Corruption

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has recently concluded a comprehensive week-long engagement with Kiribati aimed at supporting the implementation of its national anti-corruption strategy. This initiative comes as Kiribati looks to strengthen its efforts in combating and preventing corruption within the country.

Alignment with Teieniwa Vision

The UNODC’s initiative aligns with Kiribati’s Teieniwa Vision, which emphasizes that integrity-building is a collective responsibility for society as a whole. Key stakeholders such as civil society organizations (CSOs), youth groups, and the private sector are being recognized as crucial partners in promoting transparency, accountability, and public awareness in the fight against corruption.

Activities Conducted During the Week-Long Program

  • Inaugural Meeting of the Global Organization of Parliamentarians Against Corruption (GOPAC) Committee: UNODC conducted an inaugural meeting with the GOPAC Committee to discuss ways to strengthen Kiribati’s anti-corruption framework.
  • Youth Awareness-Raising Workshops: UNODC collaborated with the Kiribati Family Health Association (KFHA) to conduct youth awareness-raising workshops on the importance of combating corruption.
  • Training Sessions: Training sessions were held with key institutions such as:
    • Public Service Inspectors
    • Leadership Code Commission
    • Attorney General Office
    • Kiribati Police Service

Engagements with Key Stakeholders

  • Private Sector Meeting: A fruitful discussion was facilitated by the Kiribati Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) to identify priorities and foster collaboration among private sector stakeholders.
  • Meetings with Auditor General and Ministry of Industry and Commerce: Constructive meetings and brainstorming sessions were held with the Auditor General and the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.

Progress in Combating Corruption

Through these efforts, Kiribati is making significant progress in its collective stand against corruption. The engagement highlights the pivotal role played by collaboration among stakeholders in constructing a future for the country that is transparent, accountable, and free from corruption.