The Pacific Islands Forum has released its 2023 Audited Financial statements, setting out its financial position, audit findings and the steps being taken to tighten oversight and accountability across the region’s premier political body.
The report provides a detailed breakdown of the Forum Secretariat’s finances, confirming how funds were received, managed and spent during the 2023 financial year, while underscoring the importance of transparency to member countries and development partners.
According to the audited statements, the Secretariat continued to operate within established financial frameworks, with systems in place to track expenditure, manage resources and support programme delivery across priority areas.
The audit reviewed compliance with financial regulations, internal controls and reporting standards, assessing whether funds were used in line with approved budgets and strategic objectives.
The Forum said the audited financial statements are a key accountability tool, ensuring that all financial activities are subject to independent scrutiny and that member states have a clear picture of how regional resources are being managed.
The report highlights that maintaining strong financial governance remains critical, particularly at a time when the Pacific is dealing with economic pressures, climate-related challenges and increasing demand for coordinated regional action.
It also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve financial systems, strengthen internal controls and enhance reporting processes to meet international standards.
The Secretariat acknowledged that sound financial management is central to delivering results, noting that effective use of resources directly impacts the success of regional programmes and initiatives.
The audited statements also serve as a benchmark for future planning, helping to identify areas where efficiencies can be improved and where resources can be better aligned with regional priorities.
The Forum reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening governance and ensuring that financial systems remain robust, transparent and accountable to its members.
The 2023 Audited Financial Statements will be presented to Forum leaders and member governments as part of the organisation’s formal oversight and reporting processes, reinforcing its obligation to maintain trust and credibility across the Pacific.
