Honiara, Solomon Islands - The Government of Japan has provided JPY 430 million (US$3 million) to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to support the Solomon Islands Democratic Governance and Electoral Assistance Project (SIDGEAP).

Implemented in partnership with the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC) and the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP), the project supports national efforts to strengthen electoral institutions and prepare for inclusive, transparent and credible elections

The contribution was formalised at a signing ceremony held at the Embassy of Japan in Honiara, attended by H.E. Keiichi Higuchi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Solomon Islands, Ms. Munkhtuya Altangerel, UNDP Resident Representative for the Pacific Office, and Mr. Jasper Highwood Anisi, Chief Electoral Officer of the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission. The event was facilitated by Mr. Solomon Kalu, Programme Specialist, Inclusive Governance & Economic Growth, UNDP Solomon Islands, who moderated the proceedings.

This contribution marks a significant milestone in bilateral cooperation, reaffirming Japan’s commitment to democratic governance and inclusive development in Solomon Islands. It expands the group of development partners supporting the UNDP led programme, joining Australia and the United Kingdom, and building on the support provided by the European Union in the previous electoral cycle. The new partnership reflects Japan’s global foreign policy priorities of human security and a Free and Open Indo Pacific and builds on its longstanding collaboration with UNDP in areas including governance, resilience, and community safety.

H.E. Keiichi Higuchi said: “Indispensable to any stable democracy is an election that is free, inclusive, and fair. The 2024 Joint Elections, successfully delivered by the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC), earned praise for their transparency and credibility. Building on that achievement, Japan is partnering with UNDP and SIEC to strengthen facilities, provide technical training, and expand civic education. These measures will ensure that future elections, including the 2028 General Elections, are transparent, inclusive, and trusted by all citizens.”

Ms. Altangerel stated: “We deeply value Japan’s generous support, which builds on the lessons of the 2024 Joint Elections and positions Solomon Islands to advance institutional, legal, and operational readiness well ahead of polling day. Together, we are committed to accountable institutions and inclusive participation led and owned by Solomon Islanders.”

Mr. Anisi added, “Japan’s support, together with UNDP through SIDGEAP, builds on the credibility of past elections and positions us to deliver future by‑elections and the 2028 General Elections with even greater transparency and inclusiveness. Guided by our Strategic Plan, we are embedding reforms and innovations that will ensure women, youth, and persons with disabilities are not only participants but leaders in shaping the democratic future of Solomon Islands.”

Looking beyond 2028, the partnership between Japan, UNDP, will continue to support nationally led efforts to strengthen and electoral institutions, promote inclusive participation and build public confidence in electoral processes.

For more information please contact:

Anwar Ali, Communications Analyst, Solomon Islands Democratic Governance & Electoral Assistance Project, UNDP Solomon Islands, anwar.ali@undp.org