UNDP and UNODC Showcase Anti-Corruption Achievements at National Exhibitions and Fairs

Between March and June 2025, UNDP and UNODC proudly showcased the achievements of the EU-funded PNG Anti-Corruption Project and Transparency and Accountability in PNG projects at a series of high-profile exhibitions and fairs in Port Moresby.

In March, UNDP and UNODC participated in the Integrity and Action Exhibition hosted by Transparency International PNG. Held under the theme Integrity & Action Now!, the event urged both public officials and citizens to uphold strong ethical values in everyday decision-making. Both agencies featured vibrant display booths at the event, which drew interest from students, educators, and civil society actors, providing an opportunity to spotlight efforts to strengthen institutional transparency and empower citizen participation in governance.

In April 2025, UNDP supported the Papua New Guinea Independent Commission Against Corruption in organizing the Youth Resource Week PNG. The week-long event connected thousands of young Papua New Guineans to pathways in education and employment, while also engaging them in conversations about the role of integrity in national development.

In May, the Project also took part in the EU Global Gateway Exhibition to celebrate Europe Day. Alongside other EU-supported development initiatives, UNDP showcased progress under the PNG Anti-Corruption Project, including its contributions to legislative reform, institutional capacity-building, and public awareness campaigns.

Finally, in June, UNDP and Transparency International PNG hosted a Walk Against Corruption in Port Moresby. Project staff from both UNDP and UNODC participated in the walk, highlighting the urgent need to tackle corruption in Papua New Guinea and empowering citizens from all walks of life to join the united front to combat the issue.

By actively participating in national events, the Project not only celebrates project milestones but also reinforces the collective responsibility to tackle corruption and promote ethical leadership throughout Papua New Guinea.

Strengthening Efforts to Combat Money Laundering

In 2024, the Mutual Evaluation Report (MER) on Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Measures for Papua New Guinea (PNG), released by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), identified significant threats for money laundering in Papua New Guinea, including (i) corruption and bribery, (ii) fraud against government programs and activities, (iii) illegal logging and fishing, and (iv) tax offending.

In response, the UNODC has increased technical assistance to relevant institutions, to address specific recommendations in the Strategic Implementation Plan (SIP). The project has engaged various experts to provide technical assistance for relevant law enforcement and integrity agencies on financial intelligence analysis, developing procedural briefs on the application of provisions in legislation on money laundering and proceeds of crime, and supporting beneficial ownership transparency.

In particular, support is being extended to the Investment Promotion Authority (IPA) to address the recommendations. Specific actions will be taken to enhance the availability of accurate and up-to-date beneficial ownership information, develop standard operating procedures or cooperation arrangements between the IPA and law enforcement agencies for the use of beneficial ownership information, and conduct training using beneficial ownership data in money laundering and high-risk predicate crime investigations and to trace proceeds of crime. Under the project, UNDP provided a comprehensive review of the proposed amendments to the Companies Act related to beneficial ownership.

In July, the project facilitated the first meeting between the IPA and Philippines Security Exchange Commission (SEC). This peer learning platform, organised through the UNODC Regional Anti-Corruption Hub, will include a study tour to the Philippines SEC where the IPA will also explore formalising a working agreement to strengthen cooperation between the IPA and Philippines SEC.

UNDP supports development of a digital platform for natural resource management in PNG

From 28 to 30 April 2025, UNDP, CIMC and PNG Environmental Alliance hosted their second workshop on designing a digital platform on natural resource management for the PNG Environmental Alliance.

The digital platform, which is being developed with the generous support of the European Union, aims to improve the governance of Papua New Guinea’s vast natural resources and build the resilience of the country’s unique natural environments, which have come under increasing threat from unsustainable extractive practices in recent decades. This has had adverse impacts on the country’s biodiversity as well as the livelihoods of communities that depend on it for their daily survival.

"Through close collaboration with PNGEA, CIMC, European Union and a technical team from University of New South Wales, UNDP is privileged to participate in building this digital platform that will empower communities and stakeholders across the country to protect Papua New Guinea’s rich natural heritage,’’ said UNDP Deputy Resident Representative, Mr. Aadil Mansoor, in his remarks at the workshop.

“Building a secure, collaborative digital platform is not just a technical challenge. It is about trust, ownership of data, and amplifying civil society’s voice in a changing environment. Strengthening joint capacities and engaging across sectors is essential to support sustainable natural resource management in Papua New Guinea,” highlighted Dr. Hans Lambrecht, Head of Cooperation of the European Union Delegation to Papua New Guinea.

"Through this workshop, PNGEA is shaping a platform that reflects our shared priorities as outlined in our current Strategic Plan. It will be an essential resource for our members to advocate more effectively, collaborate more deeply, and drive meaningful change for PNG’s environment and communities," concluded Ms. Pamela Avusi, the Coordinator of the PNG Environmental Alliance.

UNODC continues to empower integrity agencies in PNG

Throughout the first half of 2025, UNODC continued to develop an Integrity Professionals Foundation Course in collaboration with Griffith University and with the support of the EU-funded PNG Anti-Corruption project.

After conducting a pilot version of the course with (12) professionals from integrity agencies in PNG, including professionals from the PNG chapter of Transparency International in late 2024, the project continued to carry out a feasibility study to determine whether any academic institutions in Papua New Guinea already have existing courses or the capacity to develop courses for early career professional working in integrity and law enforcement agencies.

After extensive consultations with the academic institutions and course participants, the initial findings of the feasibility study indicate overwhelming support by all stakeholders for the continuation of the Integrity Professionals Foundations Course. The feasibility study recommended that UNODC explore various avenues to provide training for integrity agencies, including by adopting the full course with minimal content changes and developing short-courses on specific topics relevant to integrity professionals. The study participants also expressed their support for a regional course that could be accessible to other officers in the Pacific, both in-person and online. Based on the recommendations, the UNODC is engaging with local institutions bring these suggestions to fruition.

The UNODC also foresees further opportunities for building capacity and strengthening relations between integrity professionals, which is essential for effective anti-corruption efforts. This will include supporting alumni of the pilot Integrity Professionals Foundation Course in accessing further training on corruption and contributing to the final design of the course.

Empowering ICAC’s Capacities to Prevent and Investigate Corruption

Throughout the first half of 2025, UNODC, through the EU-funded PNG Anti-Corruption Project, continued to enhance the capacity of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) to prevent and investigate corruption in Papua New Guinea.

In January, UNODC donated a batch of ICT equipment to ICAC. The new equipment will be used with intelligence software to assist investigators in analyzing data to identify, predict and counter criminal and fraudulent activities. With the support of the project, several ICAC investigators also completed a Certificate IV qualification in Government Investigations in early 2025.

Support was also provided to the ICAC’s media team to develop communications products, including animations, brochures and posters. It is expected that the new media products will be launched and available on the ICAC website in August 2025. The media team also received assistance in increasing awareness of the roles and functions of ICAC, and enhancing public understanding of types of corrupt conduct. UNDP also held a tailor-made media training for the ICAC Communication team in May 2025.

UNDP trains legal practitioners on human rights and anti-corruption

On 6 May 2025, UNDP, through the EU-funded PNG Anti-Corruption Project, partnered with the PNG Centre for Judicial Excellence to deliver a pivotal workshop on the role of human rights in the fight against corruption for legal practitioners across Papua New Guinea.

The workshop was part of an ongoing effort under the EU-PNG Partnership for Good Governance Program to strengthen national capacities and uphold the government’s commitment to tackling corruption. Topics covered included the link between corruption and human rights, strategies for preserving rights in anti-corruption work, and the responsibilities of lawyers as defenders of integrity. Interactive discussions and expert presentations allowed participants to explore real-world challenges and solutions within the legal system.

“This is a great opportunity to reflect on how we can contribute to a more transparent and accountable justice system. The workshop will help strengthen our understanding of how corruption undermines human rights and what role we can play to prevent it,” said Ms. Stacey Levakia-Wali, Program Officer from the Judicial Sector for Pacific Islands Region of the PNG Center for Judicial Excellence.

Dr. Alma Sedlar, Chief Technical Advisor (Anti-Corruption) at UNDP, emphasized the importance of the initiative: “Legal practitioners are on the frontlines of the fight against corruption and the protection of human rights. This workshop empowers them to uphold justice with integrity, strengthening Papua New Guinea’s legal system and advancing our shared vision for a fair and accountable society.”

The training was a continuation of a series of capacity-building initiatives, which UNDP has conducted in the past years through the EU-funded ‘PNG Anti-Corruption Project’. A similar session was also held on 5 May for court officials, reinforcing the growing network of legal professionals dedicated to upholding human rights and transparency across Papua New Guinea.

PNG Hosts Advanced Judicial Workshop on Anti-Corruption and Human Rights

On 7–8 May 2025, UNDP, through its EU-funded PNG Anti-Corruption Project, partnered with the PNG Centre for Judicial Excellence (PNGCJE) and the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) to deliver an advanced workshop on anti-corruption and human rights for judges and magistrates in Port Moresby.

The training comes as Papua New Guinea continues to implement key legal reforms, including the Organic Law on the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) and the Whistleblower Act 2020. While legislative progress is evident, the challenge lies in translating these laws into effective practice—an area where the judiciary plays a pivotal role.

“This workshop reinforces justice, integrity, and accountability in PNG,” said Dr. Alma Sedlar, UNDP’s Chief Technical Advisor. “Our partnership reflects a shared commitment to supporting the National Anti-Corruption Plan of Action and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.”

Mr. Nicholas Mirou, Deputy Executive Director of PNGCJE, emphasized the judiciary’s responsibility: “Judges and magistrates have a unique role in ensuring justice is served and human rights are protected. Strengthening their capacity is vital to implementing anti-corruption laws like the Whistleblower Act and Organic Law on ICAC.”

The two-day event featured intensive learning, discussions, and practical exercises tailored to judicial professionals. It reinforces UNDP’s ongoing commitment to supporting the PNG Government in implementing and monitoring the National Anti-Corruption Plan of Action and empowering non-state actors in the fight against corruption.

UNDP trains staff of the Whistleblower Call Center of the Department of Prime Minister and National Executive Council

On 12-14 May 2025, UNDP, as part of the EU-funded PNG Anti-Corruption Project, joined the Department of Prime Minister & National Executive Council (PMNEC’s) in successfully conducting a workshop on managing whistleblower protection, for the PMNEC’s Whistleblower Call Centre.

The workshop marked a key step gaining insight in the operation and functions of the Whistleblower Call Centre—an innovative system designed to support safe and confidential reporting of fraud, corruption, and other forms of misconduct within the department.

‘’UNDP is proud to support the development of secure reporting mechanisms that encourage individuals to speak up safely. This workshop marks a vital step in ensuring that the call centre becomes an effective tool for promoting transparency, integrity, and public trust’’, said Dr. Alma Sedlar, UNDP’s Chief Technical Advisor on Anti-Corruption at the workshop.

The three-day workshop brought together selected PMNEC staff for interactive and hands-on training. The participants learned about international and national legal frameworks surrounding whistleblower protection and were equipped with the tools to manage reports with sensitivity and professionalism to ensure the effective operation of the call centre.

"The establishment of the PMNEC Call Centre marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to protect whistleblowers and fight corruption in Papua New Guinea. This workshop brings together key stakeholders to strengthen our collective capacity, share experiences, and build practical solutions that will ensure a safer, more transparent environment for all," stressed Mr Kwara Wari, the Senior Internal Auditor at PMNEC in his remarks to the participants.

UNDP hosts consultations on amending the Whistleblower Act 2020

On 15 May 2025, UNDP, through its EU-funded ‘PNG Anti-Corruption Project’, partnered with the Department of Justice and Attorney General (DJAG), to facilitate consultations on amendments to the Whistleblower Act 2020.

The workshop brought together representatives from key government institutions to evaluate the current Whistleblower Act, identify its weaknesses, and provide input into the development of a revised and more robust framework. Some of the core issues covered during the consultations included the challenges with implementation of the current legislative framework, the legislative role of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), and the establishment of safe and effective reporting systems.

"The law must not work only on paper, but also in practice, and that requires your leadership, your voices and expertise. The true power of the Whistleblower Act will only be realised when it is implemented effectively, supported by strong institutions, and driven by the collective leadership of government, civil society, and development partners," said Mr. Aadil Mansoor, Deputy Resident Representative, UNDP.

“As development partners, the European Union and UNDP recognise that fighting corruption is not only a legal obligation, but a cornerstone of good governance, inclusive development, and public trust. Through the EU-PNG Partnership for Good Governance, we remain dedicated to supporting the Government of Papua New Guinea in advancing anti-corruption reforms and ensuring that strong legislation translates into real impact,” added the Dr. Hans Lambrecht - Head of Cooperation, Delegation of the European Union to Papua New Guinea.

‘’Comprehensive discussions and actions towards the effective implementation of the Whistleblower Act is vital. Strengthening it is essential to building public trust and ensuring that those who speak out against corruption are protected. This is a critical step in shaping a more responsive and secure legal framework that encourages integrity and accountability across all sectors,” said,’’ Dr. Eric Kwa, Secretary for the Department of Justice and Attorney-General.

Stakeholders review Papua New Guinea’s National Anti-Corruption Plan of Action

On 16 May 2025, UNDP, through the EU-funded PNG Anti-Corruption Project, supported the Department of Prime Minister and National Executive Council (PMNEC) and the Department of Justice and Attorney General (DJAG) in hosting a second quarter meeting to review Papua New Guinea’s National Anti-Corruption Plan of Action (NACPA) 2020–2025.

The review focused on evaluating the successes or failures of NACPA since its launch in 2020, including an assessment of its programs of work, results, and their impact on key anti-corruption action areas. It also identified gaps and challenges and provided strategic direction for the development of the next phase of NACPA.

"A good plan is only as strong as its implementation — and as Papua New Guinea prepares its next National Anti-Corruption Plan, it's critical that we build on honest, evidence-based reflections of the past five years to create a strategy that is better governed, better funded, and even more effective in the fight against corruption," stated UNDP Resident Representative, Mr. Nicholas Booth, in his remarks at the meeting.

Jeffrey Murley, Acting Director of PMNEC’s Governance Branch, affirmed the government’s commitment: “PMNEC reaffirms its dedication to working hand in hand with UNDP, the EU, and all implementing agencies to drive meaningful reform.” He described the review as an opportunity to learn, adapt, and chart the course for the next NACPA.

The meeting’s findings will directly shape the design of the forthcoming National Anti Corruption Plan of Action.

Contact Us

UNDP: alma.sedlar@undp.org | UNODC: unodc-roseap.png@un.org