Apia, Samoa: The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) recently concluded a three-day workshop in Samoa to strengthen anti-corruption frameworks and ensure a cohesive and collaborative approach to tackling corruption and improving financial transparency.
Supported by the Government of the United Kingdom, under UNDP’s Pacific Anti-Corruption Project, the agenda included a session on the Corruption Risk Assessment Methodology (CRAM) tool with Samoa’s Public Service Commission, along with specialized training on corruption and investigative techniques for investigators in the anti-corruption field.
“The training sessions on Corruption Risk Assessment Methodology and Corruption Investigations have equipped our staff with valuable skills and knowledge to better address corruption risks. We appreciate the support from UNDP and the UK Government in these efforts and look forward to continued collaboration to strengthen our anti-corruption frameworks,” said Ulualofaigā Talamaivao Fonoti Perelini, Public Service Commissioner.
The workshop comes on the back of Samoa’s significant step towards strengthening its governance and fighting corruption with the launch of its first National Anti-Corruption Policy and Strategy in 2024. This milestone underscores Samoa’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations under the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, highlighting the government’s dedication to strengthening governance and ensuring accountability within Samoa’s democratic system.
“The Pacific Anti-Corruption Project plays a crucial role in strengthening governance and transparency across the region. By enhancing the capacities of key integrity institutions and law enforcement agencies in Samoa and across the Pacific, we are helping to build a more transparent and just society,” said Josh Kemp, Counsellor, UK Integrated Security Fund Pacific Programme – British High Commission to Fiji.
Mr. Gareth Hoar, British High Commissioner to Samoa, said the UK was proud to help strengthen efforts being taken to tackle illicit finance in the Pacific region. He further acknowledged the Government of Samoa’s commitment to adopting a coordinated approach to support anti-corruption and anti-money laundering efforts in the country, safeguarding its prosperity and security.
“UNDP is dedicated to supporting Samoa in its efforts to combat corruption and improve financial transparency. The successful launch of Samoa’s National Anti-Corruption Policy and Strategy last year has provided a strong foundation for our ongoing initiatives, with this recent workshop further strengthening the cohesive approach required to effectively tackle corruption,” said Aliona Niculita, UNDP Resident Representative.
The Pacific Anti-Corruption Project aims to strengthen the implementation of anti-corruption measures at national, sub-regional and regional levels, by supporting key public sector organizations to scale up their systems and mechanisms to implement accountability frameworks.
The project also supports the promotion of the ‘right to information’ agenda, including citizens’ access to information, open data and the oversight role of non-state actors.