MPNSCS holds national consultation workshop on development of UXO Legislative Policy Paper

The Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Services (MPNSCS) holds a national consultation workshop on the development of an Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) Legislative Policy Paper and Proposed UXO Bill at the Mendana Conference Room, Honiara.

In her opening remarks, Ms. Karen Galokale, Permanent Secretary of MPNSCS, highlighted the critical importance of establishing a strong legal framework to address the ongoing threat of unexploded ordnance across the Solomon Islands.

“Remnants of war continue to pose a serious threat to our communities, our environment, and our development,” Ms. Galokale stated. “These remnants, left behind since the Second World War, still endanger lives, hinder economic growth, and obstruct development activities across many parts of our islands.”

The consultation brings together representatives from key government ministries, agencies, and development partners to deliberate on the structure, priorities, and implementation of a national UXO law. The workshop is supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with funding from the Government of Japan.

Ms. Galokale acknowledged the ongoing partnership and technical assistance provided by UNDP through its UXO Adviser, and commended Japan’s generous contribution to the initiative.

“Your support continues to demonstrate the importance of collaboration in addressing this long-standing issue,” she said. “A whole-of-government approach is essential to ensure the safety of our people and the sustainability of our national development.”

The consultation will discuss several key policy questions, including:

• The appropriate structure for UXO legislation in the Solomon Islands;
• Mechanisms for victim support and rehabilitation;
• The need for a dedicated national mechanism to support UXO clearance for development sites; and
• Strengthening national capacity beyond the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force to manage UXO risks effectively.

Ms. Galokale underscored that the consultation is not only about drafting a new law, but also about building a coordinated national system to ensure the safety and security of all Solomon Islanders.

“UXOs continue to threaten lives and slow down progress. We cannot allow this legacy of war to hold back our future,” she urged. “Let us use this opportunity to design a workable, sustainable, and environmentally sound framework for UXO management.”

The workshop marks an important step toward a comprehensive national strategy for UXO risk reduction and management, aligned with the Solomon Islands’ National Security Strategy and long-term development goals.

Consultation for Honiara will end tomorrow.

-MPNSCS Press Release