The Pacific Islands News Association (PINA) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) today signed an agreement to implement the Journalism for Pacific Anti-Corruption and Transparency (J-PACT) project, an initiative aimed at strengthening anti-corruption reporting and promoting transparency and accountability across the Pacific region.
Supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), the project will build the capacity of journalists and media institutions to report on corruption, governance and integrity issues, while strengthening regional collaboration through the Pacific Anti-Corruption Journalists Network (PACJN).
The agreement was signed by PINA Board Member Mr Fred Wesley and UNODC Pacific Representative Ms Marie Cauchois during a ceremony in Suva.
Speaking at the signing, Mr Wesley said the partnership recognises the critical role of independent journalism in promoting transparency, accountability and good governance throughout the Pacific.
“Strong journalism is essential to informed communities and accountable institutions. This project will provide Pacific journalists with new opportunities for training, mentorship, investigative reporting and regional collaboration to better serve their audiences.”
Through the J-PACT project, journalists will have access to specialised capacity-building programmes, investigative reporting grants, regional networking opportunities and participation in key anti-corruption forums. Particular emphasis will be placed on supporting women and young journalists and encouraging reporting on issues that directly impact Pacific communities.
Ms Cauchois said UNODC values its longstanding partnership with PINA and the Pacific media sector in promoting integrity and accountability throughout the region.
The project forms part of broader regional efforts to strengthen anti-corruption awareness, improve public access to information and support the implementation of international commitments on transparency and good governance.
PINA Chief Executive Officer Makereta Komai welcomed the partnership and thanked UNODC and MFAT for their continued support of Pacific journalism.
“This investment demonstrates confidence in the role Pacific media plays in strengthening democratic governance and empowering citizens through access to credible and accurate information.”
The project will be implemented across the Pacific from June 2026 to March 2027.
