The Pacific Association of Supreme Audit Institutions (PASAI) has published its 4th Accountability and Transparency Report, following publications in 2009, 2011 and 2015. These reports focus on the effectiveness of the work of Pacific Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs).
This report explores how effective Pacific Island supreme audit institutions (SAIs) are in supporting good governance, accountability, transparency and integrity in a fast-changing world.
In very broad strokes, Pacific SAIs are challenged by lack of independence and resource constraints.
The report states: “Many of the issues faced by SAIs are as a consequence of not being fully independent of executive government in their countries. Independence is fundamental to enabling SAI effectiveness.”
Lack of capacity due to staffing and resource constraints is affecting audit timeliness (many SAIs are unable to conduct audits as frequently as mandated), SAI’s integration with the wider public financial management system and their ability to implement their stakeholder engagement/communications strategies.
“This report also identifies that collaboration by SAIs with media and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) continue (sic) to be a relatively untapped opportunity to strengthen the integrity system.”
Accountability and Transparency Report
The report acknowledges that accountability and transparency are two important elements of good governance. Transparency can help fight corruption, improve governance, promote accountability and engender the confidence of citizens. Accountability helps to ensure that public funds are expended in a responsible, efficient and effective way.
NZ’s Secretary-General (and Controller and Auditor-General of NZ), John Ryan launched this report in a webinar on 18 May 2023. The panel discussion that followed this included Arianne Kassman, Transparency International Papua New Guinea’s Executive Director who is a strong leader of the Pacific anti-corruption movement.
Strengthening integrity: Panel discussion with Civil Society Organisations - 18 May 2023
About PASAI
The PASAI is the official Association of Supreme Audit Institutions in the Pacific region and one of the regional organisations belonging to the International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI). PASAI promotes transparent, accountable, effective, and efficient use of public sector resources in the Pacific.
