Suva, Fiji — Stakeholders from across Fiji are contributing to a national study exploring how accountability is understood and practiced in everyday life and public decision-making. 

A partnership between Fiji’s Council of Social Services (FCOSS) and La Trobe University is mapping the country’s “accountability ecosystem” – the network of formal institutions, community structures, and social actors shaping power and responsibility.

The study is part of a regional series on accountability across the Pacific and uses a participatory approach that allows researchers and communities to jointly shape this work. It is funded by the European Union through the UNDP Vaka Pasifika project.

This week in Suva, a new round of focus group discussions is being held with diverse groups, including the private sector, public officials, oversight institutions, civil society, community and faith‑based organisations.

FCOSS Executive Director Vani Catanasiga said the study reflects a long-standing commitment to strengthening governance through evidence and dialogue:

“Accountability is not only about institutions — it is about relationships, values, and everyday practices. This research gives space for Fijians from different walks of life to share how accountability works in reality, and where it needs strengthening. Evidence helps us ensure advocacy and reform efforts are grounded in lived experience.”

Early analysis highlights that accountability takes different forms depending on context. At community level, accountability is often framed around collective responsibility and traditional meeting structures. At broader levels, institutions play an important — though sometimes under-recognised — role in shaping expectations of responsibility and transparency.

Dr Glenn Bond, Adjunct Research Fellow at La Trobe University’s Centre for Human Security and Social Change, noted:

“This research builds on regional accountability studies but is distinct in being led by FCOSS. We are looking at who participates in accountability in Fiji, how formal systems connect with informal practices, and how relationships influence decision-making in practice. Our focus this week is going to be on identifying spaces where people’s understanding might not be aligned, where there is a need for discussion and diverse voices to be heard.”

Findings from the study are intended to inform ongoing conversations about governance, public finance, and development effectiveness in Fiji. Preliminary findings will be presented and discussed at the upcoming national policy dialogue next week in Suva, providing an opportunity for stakeholders to reflect on emerging insights and consider practical implications.

From a regional perspective, Emeline Siale Ilolahia, Executive Director of Pacific Islands Association of Non-Governmental Organisations, highlighted the wider significance:

“Understanding accountability ecosystems helps us see how public finance, development planning, and citizen participation connect. This research strengthens our collective ability to ensure decisions and resources truly serve communities.”

The Accountability Ecosystem study aims to foster locally grounded approaches to strengthening accountability, recognising that effective solutions must reflect Fiji’s social, cultural, and institutional realities. It is part of a regional series completed under the Vaka Pasifika project funded by the European Union. This initiative aligns with the European Union’s Global Gateway strategy by strengthening the governance and accountability systems that help ensure development investments are transparent, effective, and deliver lasting benefits.

Preliminary findings will be shared this week at the Holiday Inn in Suva, during the Fiji Policy Dialogue.

For more information please contact:

Nick Turner | Communications, Advocacy and Partnerships Specialist | nicholas.turner@undp.org