Democratic Governance
Strengthening Parliaments and Democratic Institutions
Justice and Human Rights
Accountability and Transparency Frameworks
Capacity Development of Local Governments and Civil Society
Constitutional Reform
Democratic institutions are framed by national constitutions, which are complemented by legislation such as electoral frameworks, leadership codes and political party laws. A number of Pacific countries have already flagged their interest in reviewing their constitutional frameworks. For example:
- As part of Tonga’s broader democratic reform programme, the Government committed to a major constitutional review process. In July 2008, the legislature passed the Constitution and Electoral Commission Act 2008. On 5 January 2009, in accordance with the Act, a 5 member Commission was appointed by the Privy Council - one member each nominated by Cabinet, the Nobles and the People’s Representatives and two by the Judicial Services Commission. The Commission was tasked with examining and inquiring into reforms that are needed for the executive, the legislature and their relationship and the electorate. The Commission was tasked with submitting an Interim Report within 5 months of its appointment and a Final Report and Recommendations to the Privy Council and the Legislative Assembly within 10 months. On 5 June 2009, the Commission's Interim Report was submitted. The Commission called for public submissions on the Interim Report to be submitted by 6 July 2009.
- In 2006-07 Nauru implemented a major constitutional reform programme, with support from the UNDP. A Constitutional Convention was held in late 2007 to consider the recommendations produced by a 3-member Constitutional Review Commission. Following the national elections in December 2007, the Government has indicated their intention to continue to pursue a programme of constitutional reform. Since early 2009, the Parliamentary Select Committee on Constitutional Amendment Bills has been considering the recommendations of both the Constitutional Review Commission and the Constitutional Convention.
- Since 2000, Solomon Islands has been pursuing a constitutional reform process. The Townsville Peace Agreement which was signed by parties involved in the tensions of 2000, specifically recognised the importance of constitutional reform, with particular focus on the framework for provincial governance. It is understood that the reform process was restarted in 2008 and the Constitutional Reform Unit in Solomon Islands has been tasked with producing recommendations for consideration by late 2009.
