MINISTRY OF INTERNAL AFFAIRS

Port Vila, Vanuatu — This week, a high-level technical delegation from the Solomon Islands Government commenced a feasibility study visit to Vanuatu to learn from the country’s experiences in civil registration, legal identity systems, and electoral processes.

The delegation includes officials from the Office of the Prime Minister, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Finance and Treasury, Ministry of Justice and Legal System, Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS), and the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission.

The visit is hosted by the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Vanuatu, in partnership with the Department of Civil Registration and Identity Management, Vanuatu Electoral Commission, and the Vanuatu Electoral Office. The exchange is jointly supported and facilitated by the UNDP Vanuatu Electoral Environment Project (VEEP) and the Strengthening the Electoral Cycle in Solomon Islands Project (SECSIP).

Sharing Experiences and Strengthening Regional Cooperation

The study trip provides the Solomon Islands delegation with first-hand insights into Vanuatu’s experience in:

·         Implementing a national ID card system

·         Strengthening civil registry and legal frameworks

·         Ensuring accurate voter registration

·         Addressing key achievements and challenges in identity and electoral systems

In his welcome remarks, Mr. Bebe, Executive Officer at the Ministry of Internal Affairs, highlighted the importance of the National ID Card, stating:

“It is not merely a card but a gateway to improving access to government services, ensuring accurate voter registration, and safeguarding the credibility of Vanuatu's democratic processes.”

This collaboration underscores the strong partnership between Vanuatu and Solomon Islands in building resilient governance systems and strengthening democratic institutions across the Pacific.