Transparency Solomon Islands (TSI) has called on the government to urgently pass a Right to Information (RTI) law, stressing that access to information is a fundamental right, not a privilege.
In a statement marking the International Day for Universal Access to Information, TSI reminded leaders that informed citizens are better equipped to make informed decisions and hold institutions accountable.
“A strong RTI system is crucial for uncovering and preventing abuses of power and for strengthening the fight against corruption,” the organisation said.
The right to access information is enshrined in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and is also recognized in the Constitution of Solomon Islands under Clause 12(1 on freedom of expression). However, Solomon Islands currently has no legislation that allows citizens to formally request government-held information.
Efforts to establish such a law have stalled for nearly a decade. A draft Freedom of Information policy and law prepared in 2016 has yet to reach parliament, despite the country’s endorsement of the Teieniwa Vision—a regional anti-corruption commitment that prioritises transparency and access to information.
TSI argues that without a legal framework, accountability gaps remain, as highlighted in recent controversies such as the management of sufferance wharves. Passing an RTI law, it said, would empower citizens to scrutinise government spending, demand transparency in decision-making, and monitor progress on national priorities.
Beyond fighting corruption, RTI offers broader benefits, including strengthening democratic governance, improving public service efficiency, enhancing media reporting, and encouraging civic participation. Globally, over 120 countries have enacted RTI laws, but Solomon Islands has yet to join them.
“Passing an RTI law is only the first step,” TSI noted. “It must meet international standards and be properly implemented and enforced to deliver meaningful change.”
TSI concluded its statement with a strong appeal:
“On this International Day for Universal Access to Information, we urge the government to act decisively. Enacting a robust RTI law would fulfill constitutional promises, strengthen governance, combat corruption, and create a more transparent, accountable, and inclusive system for all Solomon Islanders.”