Civil society organisations across Vanuatu have formally called on the Government to improve transparency in how Members of Parliament are spending public funds.
The Vanuatu Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (VANGO) handed over a set of key recommendations to government representatives during a ceremony on Iririki Island last week, urging for clearer and more accountable public finance management systems.
The call comes after two years of consultations led by VANGO, involving community voices from Tanna, Santo, Port Vila, and representatives from international and national NGOs, chiefs, church leaders, and community-based organisations.
“When we talk about transparency, it’s not just a policy — it’s anchored in truth. As the Word of God says, ‘You shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free,’” a VANGO spokesperson said during the presentation.
The President of the Vanuatu Widows Association echoed this message, highlighting the struggles of women and mothers across Vanuatu, and asking when the government would truly engage at the grassroots level.
“We’ve put forward seven key recommendations. We ask the government to take them seriously — they reflect the real needs of our people.”
Chief Maraki Bule, Chairman of the Emau Council of Chiefs, stressed the importance of systems that support transparency, especially at the local level.
“Many provinces don’t understand how money comes and goes. People must have access to information so they can make better decisions — it’s about their lives.”
VANGO also raised concerns that institutions responsible for ensuring transparency and accountability are not functioning effectively, weakening public trust.
The seven recommendations presented include A national budget that people can easily understand, Public reporting on how funds are used in provinces and Local Area Councils, Stronger oversight systems for public spending and Better public access to financial information.
“Change is difficult, but even small steps forward matter,” VANGO’s Chairman said. “If the government takes these recommendations seriously, it will bring real change and rebuild trust.”
A government representative at the event acknowledged receipt of the recommendations and said the government would review them and provide a response.
Transparency must not remain just words on paper — it must lead to real development in our communities.
