Overview:
Journalists play a critical role in holding power to account and exposing corruption across the Pacific, according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). Speaking in Suva, UNODC Regional Anti-Corruption Adviser Marie Pegie Cauchois emphasized the need for stronger partnerships between media and anti-corruption agencies to ensure transparency and public accountability.
SUVA, 15 JUNE 2026 (FIJI TIMES) — The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) says journalists remain central to strengthening accountability and exposing corruption across the Pacific.
UNODC Head of Office and Regional Anti-Corruption Adviser Marie Pegie Cauchois said journalism played a vital role by highlighting regional progress while exposing ongoing challenges.
“There are things that are going well, but also some of the challenges that the country is facing, and some of the things that need to be done,” Ms Cauchois said.
She said corruption reporting required specialist skills, technical expertise and reliable funding, which were often limited in Pacific newsrooms.
She stated the media must go beyond reporting initial allegations by following through on outcomes to help the public track corruption cases.
“It is about having proper information, giving it out there, and then continuing the discussions. What happened? What are the cases? What was the outcome?”
Cauchois called for stronger cooperation between journalists and anti-corruption watchdogs.
“Journalists are there to help out.
“They are to there call out. It is important that this partnership is working.”
She concluded that a massive achievement was reached when investigative reporting triggers real regulatory changes or official investigations…. PACNEWS
