| SOLOMON ISLANDS Solomon Islands Solomon Islands Joined United Nations: 19 September 1978 Human Rights as assured by their constitution Click here Updated 05/14/10 |
| CAPITAL |
| POPULATION |
| CHIEF OF STATE |
| SELECTION PROCESS |
Honiara
595,613 (July 2009 est.)
Elizabeth II of United Kingdom
Queen since 6 February 1952
Queen since 6 February 1952
None; the monarch is hereditary; governor general appointed by
the monarch on the advice of Parliament for up to five years
(eligible for a second term)
Next scheduled election: None
the monarch on the advice of Parliament for up to five years
(eligible for a second term)
Next scheduled election: None
HEAD OF GOVERNMENT
SELECTION PROCESS
David Derek Sikua
Prime Minister since 20 December 2007
Prime Minister since 20 December 2007
Following legislative elections, the leader of the majority party or
the leader of a majority coalition is usually elected prime minister
by Parliament. Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare defeated in a
no confidence vote in parliament on 13 December 2007; Sikua
elected on 20 December 2007; Deputy Prime Minister
appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime
minister from among the members of Parliament
Next scheduled election: mid-2010
the leader of a majority coalition is usually elected prime minister
by Parliament. Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare defeated in a
no confidence vote in parliament on 13 December 2007; Sikua
elected on 20 December 2007; Deputy Prime Minister
appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime
minister from among the members of Parliament
Next scheduled election: mid-2010
| DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS |
| ETHNIC GROUPS |
Melanesian 94.5%, Polynesian 3%, Micronesian 1.2%, other 1.1%, unspecified 0.2% (1999 census)
| RELIGIONS |
Church of Melanesia 32.8%, Roman Catholic 19%, South Seas Evangelical 17%, Seventh-Day Adventist 11.2%, United
Church 10.3%, Christian Fellowship Church 2.4%, other Christian 4.4%, other 2.4%, unspecified 0.3%, none 0.2%
(1999 census)
Church 10.3%, Christian Fellowship Church 2.4%, other Christian 4.4%, other 2.4%, unspecified 0.3%, none 0.2%
(1999 census)
| GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE |
Parliamentary democracy ; 9 provinces and 1 capital territory. Legal system English common law, which is widely
disregarded
Executive: Monarch represented by Governor General; Prime Minister selected by Governor General as leader of
majority part or coalition; deputy prime minister appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister
from among the members of Parliament
Legislative: unicameral National Parliament (50 seats; members elected from single-member constituencies by popular
vote to serve four-year terms)
elections: last held 5 April 2006 (next to be held in mid-2010)
Judicial: Court of Appeal
disregarded
Executive: Monarch represented by Governor General; Prime Minister selected by Governor General as leader of
majority part or coalition; deputy prime minister appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister
from among the members of Parliament
Legislative: unicameral National Parliament (50 seats; members elected from single-member constituencies by popular
vote to serve four-year terms)
elections: last held 5 April 2006 (next to be held in mid-2010)
Judicial: Court of Appeal
| LANGUAGES |
Melanesian pidgin in much of the country is lingua franca; English is official but spoken by only 1%-2% of the
population note: 120 indigenous languages
population note: 120 indigenous languages
| BRIEF HISTORY |
The Solomon Islands have been inhabited by Melanesians for over 30,000 years. Polynesian settlers began to arrive in
4,000 BC. The first European to discover the islands was Álvaro de Mendaña de Neira in 1568. Missionaries began
visiting the Solomons in the mid-1800s. They made little progress at first, because "blackbirding" (the often brutal
recruitment of laborers for the sugar plantations in Queensland and Fiji) led to a series of reprisals and massacres. The
evils of the labor trade prompted the United Kingdom to declare a protectorate over the southern Solomons in 1893. In
1898 and 1899, more outlying islands were added to the protectorate; in 1900 the remainder of the archipelago, an area
previously under German jurisdiction, was transferred to British administration apart from the islands of Buka and
Bougainville which remained under German administration as part of German New Guinea until occupied by Australia in
1914 at the commencement of World War I. Traditional trade and social intercourse between the western Solomon
islands of Mono and Alu (the Shortlands) and the traditional societies in the south of Bougainville, however, continued
without hindrance. Under the protectorate, missionaries settled in the Solomons, converting most of the population to
Christianity. In the early 20th century, several British and Australian firms began large-scale coconut planting. Economic
growth was slow, however, and the islanders benefited little. With the outbreak of World War II, most planters and
traders were evacuated to Australia, and most cultivation ceased. Some of the most intense fighting of World War II
occurred in the Solomons. The most significant of the Allied Forces' operations against the Japanese Imperial Forces was
launched on August 7, 1942 with simultaneous naval bombardments and amphibious landings on the Florida Islands at
Tulagi and Red Beach on Guadalcanal. The Battle of Guadalcanal became an important and bloody battle fought in the
Pacific War and the Allies begin to repulse the Japanese expansion. Of strategic importance in the during the war were the
coastwatchers who provided intelligence of Japanese naval, army and aircraft movements during the campaign. Sergeant-
Major Jacob Vouza was a notable coastwatcher who refused to divulge Allied information inspite of interrogation and
torture by Japanese Imperial forces. He was awarded the highest award for bravery by the Americans. Islanders Biuku
Gasa and Eroni Kumana would be noted by National Geographic for being the first to find the shipwrecked John F.
Kennedy and his crew of the PT-109. They suggested using a coconut to write a rescue message for delivery by dugout
canoe, which was later kept on the desk of the president. Following the end of World War II, the British colonial
government returned. The capital was moved from Tulagi to Honiara to take advantage of the infrastructure left behind by
the U.S. military. A revolutionary movement known as Maasina Ruru helped to organise and focus a mass campaign of
civil disobedience and strikes across the islands. There was much disorder and the leaders were jailed in late 1948.
Throughout the 1950s, other indigenous dissident groups appeared and disappeared without gaining strength. In 1960, an
advisory council of Solomon Islanders was superseded by a legislative council, and an executive council was created as
the protectorate's policymaking body. The council was given progressively more authority. In 1974, a new constitution
was adopted establishing a parliamentary democracy and ministerial system of government. In mid-1975, the name
Salmon Islands officially replaced that of British Solomon Islands Protectorate. On January 2, 1976, the Solomons
became self-governing, and independence followed on July 7, 1978, the first post-independence government was elected
in August 1980. The series of governments formed from there on have not performed to upgrade and build the country.
Following the 1997 election of Bartholomew Ulufa'alu the political situation in the Solomon's began to deteriorate.
Governance was slipping as the performance of the police and other government agencies deteriorated due to ethnic
rivalries. The capital of Honiara on Guadalcanal was increasingly populated by migrants from the island of Malaita. In June
2002, an insurrection mounted by militants from the island of Malaita resulted in the brief detention of Ulufa’alu and his
subsequent forced resignation. Manasseh Sogavare, leader of the People's Progressive Party, was chosen Prime Minister
by a loose coalition of parties. Guadalcanal militants retaliated and sought to drive Malaitan settlers from Guadalcanal,
resulting in the closure of a large oil-palm estate and gold mine which were vital to exports. New elections in December
2002 brought Sir Allan Kemakeza into the Prime Minister’s chair with the support of a coalition of parties. Kemakeza
attempted to address the deteriorating law and order situation in the country, but the prevailing atmosphere of lawlessness,
widespread extortion, and ineffective police, prompted a formal request by the Solomon Islands Government for outside
help. With the country bankrupt and the capital in chaos, the request was unanimously supported in Parliament. In July
2003, Australian and Pacific Island police and troops arrived in the Solomon Islands under the auspices of the Australian-
led Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI). A sizable international security contingent of 2,200
police and troops, led by Australia and New Zealand, and with representatives from about 20 other Pacific nations began
arriving the next month under Operation Helpem Fren. Since this time some commentators have considered the country a
failed state. In April 2006 allegations that the newly elected Prime Minister Snyder Rini had used bribes from Chinese
businessmen to buy the votes of members of Parliament led to mass rioting in the capital Honiara. A deep underlying
resentment against the minority Chinese business community led to much of Chinatown in the city being destroyed. China
sent chartered aircraft to evacuate hundreds of Chinese who fled to avoid the riots. Further Australian and New Zealand
troops were dispatched to try to quell the unrest. Rini eventually resigned before facing a motion of no confidence in
Parliament, and Parliament elected Manasseh Sogavare as Prime Minister. He was replace by David Sikua.
Sources Wikipedia: History of Solomon Islands
4,000 BC. The first European to discover the islands was Álvaro de Mendaña de Neira in 1568. Missionaries began
visiting the Solomons in the mid-1800s. They made little progress at first, because "blackbirding" (the often brutal
recruitment of laborers for the sugar plantations in Queensland and Fiji) led to a series of reprisals and massacres. The
evils of the labor trade prompted the United Kingdom to declare a protectorate over the southern Solomons in 1893. In
1898 and 1899, more outlying islands were added to the protectorate; in 1900 the remainder of the archipelago, an area
previously under German jurisdiction, was transferred to British administration apart from the islands of Buka and
Bougainville which remained under German administration as part of German New Guinea until occupied by Australia in
1914 at the commencement of World War I. Traditional trade and social intercourse between the western Solomon
islands of Mono and Alu (the Shortlands) and the traditional societies in the south of Bougainville, however, continued
without hindrance. Under the protectorate, missionaries settled in the Solomons, converting most of the population to
Christianity. In the early 20th century, several British and Australian firms began large-scale coconut planting. Economic
growth was slow, however, and the islanders benefited little. With the outbreak of World War II, most planters and
traders were evacuated to Australia, and most cultivation ceased. Some of the most intense fighting of World War II
occurred in the Solomons. The most significant of the Allied Forces' operations against the Japanese Imperial Forces was
launched on August 7, 1942 with simultaneous naval bombardments and amphibious landings on the Florida Islands at
Tulagi and Red Beach on Guadalcanal. The Battle of Guadalcanal became an important and bloody battle fought in the
Pacific War and the Allies begin to repulse the Japanese expansion. Of strategic importance in the during the war were the
coastwatchers who provided intelligence of Japanese naval, army and aircraft movements during the campaign. Sergeant-
Major Jacob Vouza was a notable coastwatcher who refused to divulge Allied information inspite of interrogation and
torture by Japanese Imperial forces. He was awarded the highest award for bravery by the Americans. Islanders Biuku
Gasa and Eroni Kumana would be noted by National Geographic for being the first to find the shipwrecked John F.
Kennedy and his crew of the PT-109. They suggested using a coconut to write a rescue message for delivery by dugout
canoe, which was later kept on the desk of the president. Following the end of World War II, the British colonial
government returned. The capital was moved from Tulagi to Honiara to take advantage of the infrastructure left behind by
the U.S. military. A revolutionary movement known as Maasina Ruru helped to organise and focus a mass campaign of
civil disobedience and strikes across the islands. There was much disorder and the leaders were jailed in late 1948.
Throughout the 1950s, other indigenous dissident groups appeared and disappeared without gaining strength. In 1960, an
advisory council of Solomon Islanders was superseded by a legislative council, and an executive council was created as
the protectorate's policymaking body. The council was given progressively more authority. In 1974, a new constitution
was adopted establishing a parliamentary democracy and ministerial system of government. In mid-1975, the name
Salmon Islands officially replaced that of British Solomon Islands Protectorate. On January 2, 1976, the Solomons
became self-governing, and independence followed on July 7, 1978, the first post-independence government was elected
in August 1980. The series of governments formed from there on have not performed to upgrade and build the country.
Following the 1997 election of Bartholomew Ulufa'alu the political situation in the Solomon's began to deteriorate.
Governance was slipping as the performance of the police and other government agencies deteriorated due to ethnic
rivalries. The capital of Honiara on Guadalcanal was increasingly populated by migrants from the island of Malaita. In June
2002, an insurrection mounted by militants from the island of Malaita resulted in the brief detention of Ulufa’alu and his
subsequent forced resignation. Manasseh Sogavare, leader of the People's Progressive Party, was chosen Prime Minister
by a loose coalition of parties. Guadalcanal militants retaliated and sought to drive Malaitan settlers from Guadalcanal,
resulting in the closure of a large oil-palm estate and gold mine which were vital to exports. New elections in December
2002 brought Sir Allan Kemakeza into the Prime Minister’s chair with the support of a coalition of parties. Kemakeza
attempted to address the deteriorating law and order situation in the country, but the prevailing atmosphere of lawlessness,
widespread extortion, and ineffective police, prompted a formal request by the Solomon Islands Government for outside
help. With the country bankrupt and the capital in chaos, the request was unanimously supported in Parliament. In July
2003, Australian and Pacific Island police and troops arrived in the Solomon Islands under the auspices of the Australian-
led Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI). A sizable international security contingent of 2,200
police and troops, led by Australia and New Zealand, and with representatives from about 20 other Pacific nations began
arriving the next month under Operation Helpem Fren. Since this time some commentators have considered the country a
failed state. In April 2006 allegations that the newly elected Prime Minister Snyder Rini had used bribes from Chinese
businessmen to buy the votes of members of Parliament led to mass rioting in the capital Honiara. A deep underlying
resentment against the minority Chinese business community led to much of Chinatown in the city being destroyed. China
sent chartered aircraft to evacuate hundreds of Chinese who fled to avoid the riots. Further Australian and New Zealand
troops were dispatched to try to quell the unrest. Rini eventually resigned before facing a motion of no confidence in
Parliament, and Parliament elected Manasseh Sogavare as Prime Minister. He was replace by David Sikua.
Sources Wikipedia: History of Solomon Islands
| ECONOMIC OVERVIEW |
The bulk of the population depends on agriculture, fishing, and forestry for at least part of its livelihood. Most
manufactured goods and petroleum products must be imported. The islands are rich in undeveloped mineral resources
such as lead, zinc, nickel, and gold. Prior to the arrival of RAMSI, severe ethnic violence, the closing of key businesses,
and an empty government treasury culminated in economic collapse. RAMSI's efforts to restore law and order and
economic stability have led to modest growth as the economy rebuilds.
Source: CIA World Factbook (select Solomon Islands)
manufactured goods and petroleum products must be imported. The islands are rich in undeveloped mineral resources
such as lead, zinc, nickel, and gold. Prior to the arrival of RAMSI, severe ethnic violence, the closing of key businesses,
and an empty government treasury culminated in economic collapse. RAMSI's efforts to restore law and order and
economic stability have led to modest growth as the economy rebuilds.
Source: CIA World Factbook (select Solomon Islands)
| POLITICAL CLIMATE |
Solomon Islands governments are characterized by weak political parties (see List of political parties in Solomon Islands)
and highly unstable parliamentary coalitions. They are subject to frequent votes of no confidence, and government
leadership changes frequently as a result. Cabinet changes are common. Land ownership is reserved for Solomon
Islanders. The law provides that resident expatriates, such as the Chinese and Kiribati, may obtain citizenship through
naturalization. Land generally is still held on a family or village basis and may be handed down from mother or father
according to local custom. The islanders are reluctant to provide land for nontraditional economic undertakings, and this
has resulted in continual disputes over land ownership. No military forces are maintained by the Solomon Islands, although
a police force of nearly 500 includes a border protection unit. The police also are responsible for fire service, disaster
relief, and maritime surveillance. The police force is headed by a commissioner, appointed by the governor-general and
responsible to the prime minister. The current commissioner is an Australian.
Source: Wikipedia: Politics of Solomon Islands
and highly unstable parliamentary coalitions. They are subject to frequent votes of no confidence, and government
leadership changes frequently as a result. Cabinet changes are common. Land ownership is reserved for Solomon
Islanders. The law provides that resident expatriates, such as the Chinese and Kiribati, may obtain citizenship through
naturalization. Land generally is still held on a family or village basis and may be handed down from mother or father
according to local custom. The islanders are reluctant to provide land for nontraditional economic undertakings, and this
has resulted in continual disputes over land ownership. No military forces are maintained by the Solomon Islands, although
a police force of nearly 500 includes a border protection unit. The police also are responsible for fire service, disaster
relief, and maritime surveillance. The police force is headed by a commissioner, appointed by the governor-general and
responsible to the prime minister. The current commissioner is an Australian.
Source: Wikipedia: Politics of Solomon Islands
| INTERNATIONAL DISPUTES |
Since 2003, RAMSI, consisting of police, military, and civilian advisors drawn from 15 countries, has assisted in
reestablishing and maintaining civil and political order while reinforcing regional stability and security.
reestablishing and maintaining civil and political order while reinforcing regional stability and security.
| REFUGEES AND INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS (IDP) |
IDPs: 5,400 displaced by tsunami on 2 April 2007
| ILLICIT DRUGS |
None reported.
| HUMAN RIGHTS STATEMENTS, ANALYSIS AND CRITIQUES |
2009 Human Rights Report: Solomon Islands
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2009 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
March 11, 2010
The Solomon Islands is a constitutional multiparty parliamentary democracy with a population of approximately 523,000.
Parliamentary elections held in 2006 were considered generally free and fair, although there were incidents of vote buying. In 2007
Parliament elected Derek Sikua as prime minister. The Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI), a
multinational police-centered force organized by Australia, arrived in the country in 2003 at the government's invitation to assist in
restoring law and order and rebuilding the country's institutions following the 1998 to 2003 period of violent conflict between the
Malaitan and Guadalcanalese ethnic groups. RAMSI continued its assistance during the year, and relations between RAMSI and the
government remained stable. Civilian authorities generally maintained effective control of the security forces.
The government generally respected the human rights of its citizens, but there were problems in some areas. Human rights
problems included:
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2009 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
March 11, 2010
The Solomon Islands is a constitutional multiparty parliamentary democracy with a population of approximately 523,000.
Parliamentary elections held in 2006 were considered generally free and fair, although there were incidents of vote buying. In 2007
Parliament elected Derek Sikua as prime minister. The Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI), a
multinational police-centered force organized by Australia, arrived in the country in 2003 at the government's invitation to assist in
restoring law and order and rebuilding the country's institutions following the 1998 to 2003 period of violent conflict between the
Malaitan and Guadalcanalese ethnic groups. RAMSI continued its assistance during the year, and relations between RAMSI and the
government remained stable. Civilian authorities generally maintained effective control of the security forces.
The government generally respected the human rights of its citizens, but there were problems in some areas. Human rights
problems included:
- lengthy pretrial detention,
- government corruption,
- violence and discrimination against women.
2 July 2003
COMMITTEE ON THE RIGHTS OF THE CHILD
Thirty-third session
CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS SUBMITTED BY STATES PARTIES
UNDER ARTICLE 44 OF THE CONVENTION
Concluding observations: Solomon Islands
A. Introduction
2. The Committee welcomes the submission of the State party’s frank and informative initial report and the very informative
written replies to its list of issues (CRC/C/Q/SOL/1). The Committee also welcomes the high-level delegation and the constructive
dialogue that took place.
B. Positive factors
3. The Committee notes with appreciation the State party’s efforts to implement the Convention, especially with regard to:
(a) Progress made in reducing infant mortality and expanding immunization coverage;
(b) The establishment of the National Advisory Committee on Children (NACC) and the recent appointment of a child desk officer;
C. Factors and difficulties impeding the implementation of the Convention
4. The Committee recognizes the serious difficulties facing the State party, namely the recent civil strife, severe economic
constraints, including poverty and unemployment, vulnerability to natural disasters, and the fact that the country is made up of
many islands, some very remote, and that its people speak at least 87 local languages and dialects.
D. Principal subjects of concern, suggestions and recommendations
1. General measures of implementation
Legislation
5. The Committee notes that a child rights bill is being drafted in order to bring legislation into line with the provisions and principles
of the Convention, as well as a bill for the protection of children, but is concerned that these bills and other draft laws concerning
child rights have long been awaiting enactment.
Click here to read more »
COMMITTEE ON THE RIGHTS OF THE CHILD
Thirty-third session
CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS SUBMITTED BY STATES PARTIES
UNDER ARTICLE 44 OF THE CONVENTION
Concluding observations: Solomon Islands
A. Introduction
2. The Committee welcomes the submission of the State party’s frank and informative initial report and the very informative
written replies to its list of issues (CRC/C/Q/SOL/1). The Committee also welcomes the high-level delegation and the constructive
dialogue that took place.
B. Positive factors
3. The Committee notes with appreciation the State party’s efforts to implement the Convention, especially with regard to:
(a) Progress made in reducing infant mortality and expanding immunization coverage;
(b) The establishment of the National Advisory Committee on Children (NACC) and the recent appointment of a child desk officer;
C. Factors and difficulties impeding the implementation of the Convention
4. The Committee recognizes the serious difficulties facing the State party, namely the recent civil strife, severe economic
constraints, including poverty and unemployment, vulnerability to natural disasters, and the fact that the country is made up of
many islands, some very remote, and that its people speak at least 87 local languages and dialects.
D. Principal subjects of concern, suggestions and recommendations
1. General measures of implementation
Legislation
5. The Committee notes that a child rights bill is being drafted in order to bring legislation into line with the provisions and principles
of the Convention, as well as a bill for the protection of children, but is concerned that these bills and other draft laws concerning
child rights have long been awaiting enactment.
Click here to read more »
Freedom in the World Report- 2009
Solomon Islands
Political Rights Score: 4
Civil Liberties Score: 3
Status: Partly Free
Overview
Prime Minister Derek Sikua, who assumed office in late 2007, took steps in 2008 to remedy some of the worst excesses of the
Solomon Islands’ previous government, led by the controversial Manasseh Sogavare. Several members of parliament were charged
with misappropriation of government funds, and Sikua appointed a new ombudsman in July to investigate alleged government
abuses.
In 2007, Sogavare blocked a PNG inquiry team from visiting to investigate Moti’s 2006 military flight and threatened to file criminal
defamation charges against anyone who criticized the attorney general. Moti assumed his post in July 2007, pledging to pursue all
those involved in delaying his appointment. The opposition, labor unions, and civil society groups continued to call for Moti’s
resignation and extradition to Australia. The opposition tried to remove Sogavare from office with another no-confidence vote in
August, but failed again.
Separately, Sogavare had drawn additional criticism by creating a Peace and Integrity Council (PIC) to replace the National Peace
Council (NPC) in January 2007. The Australian-funded NPC had a mandate to foster peace and reconciliation, encourage the
surrender of weapons, and facilitate consultation between the national and provincial governments and with civil society groups.
Critics charged that the PIC, which would be directed by the cabinet, would not have the independence of the NPC. Strong public
outcry against this change forced the government to retain the NPC. Nine ministers withdrew from the government in November
2007, and the opposition forced a no-confidence vote in December, removing Sogavare from office. Lawmakers then chose Derek
Sikua, the education and human resources development minister in Sogavare’s cabinet, as prime minister, and by year’s end, the
new government had extradited Moti to Australia.
Since assuming office, Sikua has pledged to attack official corruption and abuses, a major source of public resentment and
international criticism. In January 2008, Sikua pledged that the number of cabinet seats would be reduced from 21 to 11, and that
salaries for political appointees would be reduced from $72,000 to $37,000 annually. In February 2008, Jahir Khan, the country’s
police commissioner, was dismissed from his post; Khan’s appointment by former prime minister Sogavare had been controversial
for not having gone through the prescribed process for senior officials. Also in February, Peter Shanel, the former immigration
chief in the Sogavare cabinet, was charged with aiding Moti’s unlawful reentry to the Solomon Islands.
Click here to read more »
Solomon Islands
Political Rights Score: 4
Civil Liberties Score: 3
Status: Partly Free
Overview
Prime Minister Derek Sikua, who assumed office in late 2007, took steps in 2008 to remedy some of the worst excesses of the
Solomon Islands’ previous government, led by the controversial Manasseh Sogavare. Several members of parliament were charged
with misappropriation of government funds, and Sikua appointed a new ombudsman in July to investigate alleged government
abuses.
In 2007, Sogavare blocked a PNG inquiry team from visiting to investigate Moti’s 2006 military flight and threatened to file criminal
defamation charges against anyone who criticized the attorney general. Moti assumed his post in July 2007, pledging to pursue all
those involved in delaying his appointment. The opposition, labor unions, and civil society groups continued to call for Moti’s
resignation and extradition to Australia. The opposition tried to remove Sogavare from office with another no-confidence vote in
August, but failed again.
Separately, Sogavare had drawn additional criticism by creating a Peace and Integrity Council (PIC) to replace the National Peace
Council (NPC) in January 2007. The Australian-funded NPC had a mandate to foster peace and reconciliation, encourage the
surrender of weapons, and facilitate consultation between the national and provincial governments and with civil society groups.
Critics charged that the PIC, which would be directed by the cabinet, would not have the independence of the NPC. Strong public
outcry against this change forced the government to retain the NPC. Nine ministers withdrew from the government in November
2007, and the opposition forced a no-confidence vote in December, removing Sogavare from office. Lawmakers then chose Derek
Sikua, the education and human resources development minister in Sogavare’s cabinet, as prime minister, and by year’s end, the
new government had extradited Moti to Australia.
Since assuming office, Sikua has pledged to attack official corruption and abuses, a major source of public resentment and
international criticism. In January 2008, Sikua pledged that the number of cabinet seats would be reduced from 21 to 11, and that
salaries for political appointees would be reduced from $72,000 to $37,000 annually. In February 2008, Jahir Khan, the country’s
police commissioner, was dismissed from his post; Khan’s appointment by former prime minister Sogavare had been controversial
for not having gone through the prescribed process for senior officials. Also in February, Peter Shanel, the former immigration
chief in the Sogavare cabinet, was charged with aiding Moti’s unlawful reentry to the Solomon Islands.
Click here to read more »
SOLOMON ISLANDS
END IMPUNITY THROUGH UNIVERSAL JURISDICTION
07 December 2009
1. INTRODUCTION
Solomon Islands, which gained its independence from the United Kingdom (UK) in 1978, is a member of the Commonwealth and
has a common law legal system. It has been able to exercise universal criminal jurisdiction over grave breaches of the 1949 Geneva
Conventions since independence. In addition, Solomon Islands can exercise universal jurisdiction over piracy, crimes abroad on
foreign aircraft, hijacking and attacks abroad on foreign aircraft. Solomon Islands has defined genocide as a crime, but it has not
provided universal jurisdiction over it. It has not defined crimes against humanity, war crimes (apart from grave breaches of the
Geneva Conventions), torture, extrajudicial executions or enforced disappearances as crimes under national law.
Therefore, Solomon Islands is currently a safe haven from prosecution in its courts for foreigners who are responsible for
genocide, war crimes (apart from grave breaches of the Geneva Conventions), torture, extrajudicial executions and enforced
disappearance committed abroad. In addition, foreign commanders and superiors responsible for grave breaches of the Geneva
Conventions committed abroad would enjoy impunity in Solomon Islands because the principle of command and superior
responsibility has not been included in the Penal Code.
Solomon Islands is also a safe haven from extradition to any country for foreigners who are responsible for genocide, war crimes
(including grave breaches of the Geneva Conventions, unless the requesting state is a designated Commonwealth state or other
designated state), torture, extrajudicial executions and enforced disappearance committed abroad because none of these crimes are
listed as extradition crimes. Although persons suspected of other crimes under international law could be extradited to certain
designated Commonwealth countries for ordinary crimes, they could not be extradited for crimes under international law, and there
are a number of obstacles to extradition. In addition, such persons could not be arrested and surrendered to the International
Criminal Court or any other international criminal court.
No statute authorizes Solomon Islands to exercise universal civil jurisdiction, in civil cases, but it is possible to exercise such
jurisdiction over civil claims for compensation in criminal proceedings, including those based on universal criminal jurisdiction.
Solomon Islands does not have any special immigration unit to screen foreigners with a view to identifying persons suspected of
crimes under international law and referring them to police for investigation or a special unit to investigate and prosecute crimes
under international law and there are no known cases involving universal jurisdiction. Although a Solomon Islands law reform
commission has been reviewing criminal law and criminal procedure, its mandate does not expressly extend to these matters.
Click here to read more »
END IMPUNITY THROUGH UNIVERSAL JURISDICTION
07 December 2009
1. INTRODUCTION
Solomon Islands, which gained its independence from the United Kingdom (UK) in 1978, is a member of the Commonwealth and
has a common law legal system. It has been able to exercise universal criminal jurisdiction over grave breaches of the 1949 Geneva
Conventions since independence. In addition, Solomon Islands can exercise universal jurisdiction over piracy, crimes abroad on
foreign aircraft, hijacking and attacks abroad on foreign aircraft. Solomon Islands has defined genocide as a crime, but it has not
provided universal jurisdiction over it. It has not defined crimes against humanity, war crimes (apart from grave breaches of the
Geneva Conventions), torture, extrajudicial executions or enforced disappearances as crimes under national law.
Therefore, Solomon Islands is currently a safe haven from prosecution in its courts for foreigners who are responsible for
genocide, war crimes (apart from grave breaches of the Geneva Conventions), torture, extrajudicial executions and enforced
disappearance committed abroad. In addition, foreign commanders and superiors responsible for grave breaches of the Geneva
Conventions committed abroad would enjoy impunity in Solomon Islands because the principle of command and superior
responsibility has not been included in the Penal Code.
Solomon Islands is also a safe haven from extradition to any country for foreigners who are responsible for genocide, war crimes
(including grave breaches of the Geneva Conventions, unless the requesting state is a designated Commonwealth state or other
designated state), torture, extrajudicial executions and enforced disappearance committed abroad because none of these crimes are
listed as extradition crimes. Although persons suspected of other crimes under international law could be extradited to certain
designated Commonwealth countries for ordinary crimes, they could not be extradited for crimes under international law, and there
are a number of obstacles to extradition. In addition, such persons could not be arrested and surrendered to the International
Criminal Court or any other international criminal court.
No statute authorizes Solomon Islands to exercise universal civil jurisdiction, in civil cases, but it is possible to exercise such
jurisdiction over civil claims for compensation in criminal proceedings, including those based on universal criminal jurisdiction.
Solomon Islands does not have any special immigration unit to screen foreigners with a view to identifying persons suspected of
crimes under international law and referring them to police for investigation or a special unit to investigate and prosecute crimes
under international law and there are no known cases involving universal jurisdiction. Although a Solomon Islands law reform
commission has been reviewing criminal law and criminal procedure, its mandate does not expressly extend to these matters.
Click here to read more »
'Sodomy' Laws Show Survival of Colonial Injustice
As India's High Court Mulls Reform, Nations Should Repeal This Legacy
December 17, 2008
(New York) - More than half of the world's remaining "sodomy" laws -criminalizing consensual homosexual conduct - are relics
of British colonial rule, Human Rights Watch showed in a report published today. Human Rights Watch urged governments
everywhere to affirm international human rights standards, and reject the oppressive legacies of colonialism, by repealing laws that
criminalize consensual sexual activity among adults of the same sex.
The 66-page report, "This Alien Legacy: The Origins of ‘Sodomy' Laws in British Colonialism," describes how laws in over three
dozen countries, from India to Uganda and from Nigeria to Papua New Guinea, derive from a single law on homosexual conduct
that British colonial rulers imposed on India in 1860. This year, the High Court in Delhi ended hearings in a years-long case seeking
to decriminalize homosexual conduct there. A ruling in the landmark case is expected soon.
Today, international human rights standards have compelled former colonial powers to acknowledge that these laws are wrong.
England and Wales decriminalized homosexual conduct in 1967.The laws nonetheless persist in many of Britain's old colonial
possessions. Moreover, the model British-era sodomy law made no distinction between consensual and non-consensual sex, or
between sex among adults and sexual abuse of children. As a result, these surviving laws leave many rape victims and child victims
of abuse without effective legal protection.
"From Malaysia to Uganda, governments use these laws to harass civil society, restrict free expression, discredit enemies, and
destroy lives," Long said. "And sodomy laws add to the spread of HIV/AIDS by criminalizing outreach to affected groups."
Colonies and countries that retain versions of this British sodomy law include:
* In Asia and the Pacific: Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei, India, Kiribati, Malaysia, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Myanmar (Burma),
Nauru, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Western Samoa. (Governments
that inherited the same British law, but have abolished it since include: Australia, Fiji, Hong Kong, and New Zealand.)
* In Africa: Botswana, Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Nigeria, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Swaziland,
Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Click here to read more »
As India's High Court Mulls Reform, Nations Should Repeal This Legacy
December 17, 2008
(New York) - More than half of the world's remaining "sodomy" laws -criminalizing consensual homosexual conduct - are relics
of British colonial rule, Human Rights Watch showed in a report published today. Human Rights Watch urged governments
everywhere to affirm international human rights standards, and reject the oppressive legacies of colonialism, by repealing laws that
criminalize consensual sexual activity among adults of the same sex.
The 66-page report, "This Alien Legacy: The Origins of ‘Sodomy' Laws in British Colonialism," describes how laws in over three
dozen countries, from India to Uganda and from Nigeria to Papua New Guinea, derive from a single law on homosexual conduct
that British colonial rulers imposed on India in 1860. This year, the High Court in Delhi ended hearings in a years-long case seeking
to decriminalize homosexual conduct there. A ruling in the landmark case is expected soon.
Today, international human rights standards have compelled former colonial powers to acknowledge that these laws are wrong.
England and Wales decriminalized homosexual conduct in 1967.The laws nonetheless persist in many of Britain's old colonial
possessions. Moreover, the model British-era sodomy law made no distinction between consensual and non-consensual sex, or
between sex among adults and sexual abuse of children. As a result, these surviving laws leave many rape victims and child victims
of abuse without effective legal protection.
"From Malaysia to Uganda, governments use these laws to harass civil society, restrict free expression, discredit enemies, and
destroy lives," Long said. "And sodomy laws add to the spread of HIV/AIDS by criminalizing outreach to affected groups."
Colonies and countries that retain versions of this British sodomy law include:
* In Asia and the Pacific: Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei, India, Kiribati, Malaysia, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Myanmar (Burma),
Nauru, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Western Samoa. (Governments
that inherited the same British law, but have abolished it since include: Australia, Fiji, Hong Kong, and New Zealand.)
* In Africa: Botswana, Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Nigeria, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Swaziland,
Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Click here to read more »
PM Sikua Welcomes Re-Launch Of Gold Ridge Mine
Wednesday, 24 March 2010, 6:15 pm
Press Release: Solomon Islands Government
Prime Minister Dr Derek Sikua says today’s re-launch of the Gold Ridge Mine in Central Guadalcanal is a positive sign that the
country has recovered from the years of ethnic conflict.
The mine was closed at the height of the ethnic crisis in 2000 which has significantly reduced the countries revenue in subsequent
years.
Australian Company, Allied Gold took over operations of the mine in October last year and has today announced a US$150 million
investment to reopen the mine.
Dr Sikua is confident that the re-opening will signal to the international community that Solomon Islands now has a conducive
environment for investment and provides opportunities for credible foreign companies to contribute and grow the local economy.
“I am extremely happy to be here today and to be with you all, feeling gratified by the fact that we have gathered here to celebrate
the reopening of the mine by Allied Gold Limited of Australia,” he said. “This has been made possible through the very important
political will that translates intentions into actions,” he said.
Today’s groundbreaking ceremony signals a sense of fulfillment for the CNURA Government. The mine has left fond memories of
vibrant commercial activities before the destruction of its facilities during the ethnic crisis.
Dr Sikua acknowledged the challenges that Allied Gold has encountered. However, the Prime Minister is pleased to see that their
hard work has come to culmination despite obvious difficulties.
He added that reopening the mine marks another important step in the right direction for economic development for the country,
Guadalcanal Province and more so tribal communities of the Gold Ridge area.
In anticipation of the full operations of the Mine, the project will provide significant level of employment for local people,
development of local businesses; contribute to government revenue through taxes and improved balance of payments through
foreign exchange earnings. Further, this will also have a multiplier effect on the rest of the economy.
Click here to read more »
Wednesday, 24 March 2010, 6:15 pm
Press Release: Solomon Islands Government
Prime Minister Dr Derek Sikua says today’s re-launch of the Gold Ridge Mine in Central Guadalcanal is a positive sign that the
country has recovered from the years of ethnic conflict.
The mine was closed at the height of the ethnic crisis in 2000 which has significantly reduced the countries revenue in subsequent
years.
Australian Company, Allied Gold took over operations of the mine in October last year and has today announced a US$150 million
investment to reopen the mine.
Dr Sikua is confident that the re-opening will signal to the international community that Solomon Islands now has a conducive
environment for investment and provides opportunities for credible foreign companies to contribute and grow the local economy.
“I am extremely happy to be here today and to be with you all, feeling gratified by the fact that we have gathered here to celebrate
the reopening of the mine by Allied Gold Limited of Australia,” he said. “This has been made possible through the very important
political will that translates intentions into actions,” he said.
Today’s groundbreaking ceremony signals a sense of fulfillment for the CNURA Government. The mine has left fond memories of
vibrant commercial activities before the destruction of its facilities during the ethnic crisis.
Dr Sikua acknowledged the challenges that Allied Gold has encountered. However, the Prime Minister is pleased to see that their
hard work has come to culmination despite obvious difficulties.
He added that reopening the mine marks another important step in the right direction for economic development for the country,
Guadalcanal Province and more so tribal communities of the Gold Ridge area.
In anticipation of the full operations of the Mine, the project will provide significant level of employment for local people,
development of local businesses; contribute to government revenue through taxes and improved balance of payments through
foreign exchange earnings. Further, this will also have a multiplier effect on the rest of the economy.
Click here to read more »
Ombudsman Receives Strong Support for Future Plans
Issued by the Office of the Ombudsman - Sunday 22 February 2009
At a planning day this week the Ombudsman received a strong message about the important role the Ombudsman plays in building
public confidence in the government by holding public servants to account.
The message came during a special planning day held by Office of the Ombudsman. Key stakeholders who attended the day
included the Attorney General, Transparency Solomon Islands, the National Council of Women and Solomon Islands Council of
Churches.
The Office of the Ombudsman is a vital agency for government accountability. The Ombudsman deals with complaints about
government agencies and can investigate complaints about public service actions and decisions to see if they are wrong, unjust or
discriminatory.
It has a key role to play in ensuring that government workers carry out their roles and responsibilities.
The Ombudsman, Mr Joe Poraiwai said seeking the views of key stakeholders was the best way to get feedback on the public
perception of the role and function of the Office.
“Public sector accountability means holding public servants in all areas of government to account for their actions: as school
teachers, as nurses and other public servants delivering government services to the people in every ministry,” Mr Poraiwai said.
“The planning day and feedback from our key stakeholders will assist our Office to develop a “roadmap” that sets the direction and
pace of reform over the next three years,” Mr Poraiwai said.
The planning day included presentations by a number of government, church and NGO stakeholders, including Attorney General,
Gabriel Suri; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs, James Remobatu; the Executive officer of
Transparency Solomon Islands, Jean Tafao; the Chair of SICA, Rev. Philemon Riti, and the General Secretary of the National
Council of Women, Ella Kahue.
The Attorney General emphasised the Ombudsman’s role in promoting good governance.
“When the Ombudsman tells an authority to correct its actions, it is lawfully condemning maladministration and bad practices and
hence promoting good governance and leadership. This action reinforces public confidence in public administration,” Mr Suri said.
The Office of the Ombudsman’s planning day was supported by RAMSI. RAMSI seeks to contribute to improved government
accountability in Solomon Islands by supporting the three accountability institutions: the Office of the Ombudsman, the Leadership
Code Commission and the Office of the Auditor General.
Click here to read more »
Issued by the Office of the Ombudsman - Sunday 22 February 2009
At a planning day this week the Ombudsman received a strong message about the important role the Ombudsman plays in building
public confidence in the government by holding public servants to account.
The message came during a special planning day held by Office of the Ombudsman. Key stakeholders who attended the day
included the Attorney General, Transparency Solomon Islands, the National Council of Women and Solomon Islands Council of
Churches.
The Office of the Ombudsman is a vital agency for government accountability. The Ombudsman deals with complaints about
government agencies and can investigate complaints about public service actions and decisions to see if they are wrong, unjust or
discriminatory.
It has a key role to play in ensuring that government workers carry out their roles and responsibilities.
The Ombudsman, Mr Joe Poraiwai said seeking the views of key stakeholders was the best way to get feedback on the public
perception of the role and function of the Office.
“Public sector accountability means holding public servants in all areas of government to account for their actions: as school
teachers, as nurses and other public servants delivering government services to the people in every ministry,” Mr Poraiwai said.
“The planning day and feedback from our key stakeholders will assist our Office to develop a “roadmap” that sets the direction and
pace of reform over the next three years,” Mr Poraiwai said.
The planning day included presentations by a number of government, church and NGO stakeholders, including Attorney General,
Gabriel Suri; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs, James Remobatu; the Executive officer of
Transparency Solomon Islands, Jean Tafao; the Chair of SICA, Rev. Philemon Riti, and the General Secretary of the National
Council of Women, Ella Kahue.
The Attorney General emphasised the Ombudsman’s role in promoting good governance.
“When the Ombudsman tells an authority to correct its actions, it is lawfully condemning maladministration and bad practices and
hence promoting good governance and leadership. This action reinforces public confidence in public administration,” Mr Suri said.
The Office of the Ombudsman’s planning day was supported by RAMSI. RAMSI seeks to contribute to improved government
accountability in Solomon Islands by supporting the three accountability institutions: the Office of the Ombudsman, the Leadership
Code Commission and the Office of the Auditor General.
Click here to read more »
Journalists barred from USP Council Meeting
14 May 2010
Local journalists have been denied access into the 70th University of the South Pacific (USP) Council Meeting in Honiara despite
being invited by the Ministry of Education.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Human Resources, Mylyn Kuve had circulated an invitation to various local
media outlets to cover discussions and activities delegates would involve in during this gathering. However, local reporters who
turned up to cover the programme were turned back as organizers told them the media was not allowed in.
The Ministry again rang up local journalists at the latter part of the morning telling them to come back after lunch, but when they
do, the answer was again ‘no media allowed’.
The media was only allowed to take photographs of the delegates and no other information on the range of issues to be covered
during the meeting.
The reason behind the let-down could not be established, despite attempts to contact the Ministry of Education for an explanation
yesterday.
A similar incident was also reported in Tonga in 2008 when the USP Council met at Nuku’alofa where the media was barred from
covering the meeting.
Meanwhile, the country’s effort in establishing the fourth campus of USP is facing a major setback.
Earlier it was planned that when the USP Council meeting scheduled for this time last year, a ground breaking ceremony for the
fourth campus will also take place at the proposed site identified at lower Panatina Campus.
That site is now under dispute since the landowner, Solomon Islands College of Higher Education (SICHE) refused to back down
to Government pressure for the land to be allocated for USP’s fourth campus.
SICHE has argued that once USP is given the okay to set up its fourth campus here, Government will bear the brunt of financing
the construction of infrastructures for the USP Campus. Such money SICHE believe should be invested into its ongoing expansion.
The forced removal last month of the Director of SICHE, Dick Ha’amori was partly a result of his administration’s refusal to
handover the SICHE site identified for USP’s fourth campus.
Click here to read more »
14 May 2010
Local journalists have been denied access into the 70th University of the South Pacific (USP) Council Meeting in Honiara despite
being invited by the Ministry of Education.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Human Resources, Mylyn Kuve had circulated an invitation to various local
media outlets to cover discussions and activities delegates would involve in during this gathering. However, local reporters who
turned up to cover the programme were turned back as organizers told them the media was not allowed in.
The Ministry again rang up local journalists at the latter part of the morning telling them to come back after lunch, but when they
do, the answer was again ‘no media allowed’.
The media was only allowed to take photographs of the delegates and no other information on the range of issues to be covered
during the meeting.
The reason behind the let-down could not be established, despite attempts to contact the Ministry of Education for an explanation
yesterday.
A similar incident was also reported in Tonga in 2008 when the USP Council met at Nuku’alofa where the media was barred from
covering the meeting.
Meanwhile, the country’s effort in establishing the fourth campus of USP is facing a major setback.
Earlier it was planned that when the USP Council meeting scheduled for this time last year, a ground breaking ceremony for the
fourth campus will also take place at the proposed site identified at lower Panatina Campus.
That site is now under dispute since the landowner, Solomon Islands College of Higher Education (SICHE) refused to back down
to Government pressure for the land to be allocated for USP’s fourth campus.
SICHE has argued that once USP is given the okay to set up its fourth campus here, Government will bear the brunt of financing
the construction of infrastructures for the USP Campus. Such money SICHE believe should be invested into its ongoing expansion.
The forced removal last month of the Director of SICHE, Dick Ha’amori was partly a result of his administration’s refusal to
handover the SICHE site identified for USP’s fourth campus.
Click here to read more »
Represented by
Sir Frank Utu Ofagioro Kabui
Governor General since 7 July 2009
Sir Frank Utu Ofagioro Kabui
Governor General since 7 July 2009
| Click map for larger view |
| Click flag for Country Report |
| TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS |
None reported.
Fred Fono
Deputy Prime Minister
since 24 April 2006
Deputy Prime Minister
since 24 April 2006
