THE Solomon Islands Council of Trade Unions (SICTU) has urged all Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) to collectively assess their roles to fulfil their mandate in ensuring that national and provincial governments govern effectively and transparently on behalf of the public.
“They (CSOs) should hold these governments accountable through governance institutions, the judiciary, media and social media,” SICTU said in a statement this week.
“We are calling on all CSOs in Solomon Islands to revitalise their organisations as contribution to hold government and all government institution to account to the people of Solomon Islands,” it added.
SICTU said CSOs play a pivotal role in shaping and sustaining strong governments and institutions.
It said CSOs comprise Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), community groups, activists and ordinary citizens and they act as a bridge between the state and the people, ensuring accountability, transparency, and responsiveness in governance.
“Vibrant and active CSOs are not just a complement to government, but are a critical force that pressure public bodies to perform their duties competently and ethically.
“One of the most significant contributions of CSOs is their ability to hold governments accountable. By monitoring public policies, exposing corruption, and demanding transparency, CSOs ensure that government actions align with the public interest.
“For instance, watchdog groups that track public spending or investigate misuse of power create an environment where governments are compelled to act responsibly.
“This scrutiny fosters trust in public institutions and discourages malpractice,” SICTU underscored.
SICTU said it believes that CSOs amplify the voices of marginalised and underrepresented groups, ensuring that their concerns are addressed in policymaking.
“Through advocacy, campaigns, and grassroots mobilisation, CSOs push governments to adopt inclusive and equitable policies. This pressure ensures that institutions remain responsive to the needs of all citizens, not just the powerful or privileged.
“Strong and sustainable CSOs are essential for a functioning democracy in Solomon Islands. By organising voter education programmes, monitoring elections and advocating for fair electoral laws, CSOs help ensure that democratic processes are free, fair and credible.
“They also encourage citizen participation in governance, fostering a culture of active citizenship where people are empowered to demand better performance from national leaders.
“In essence, CSOs often acts as a catalyst for institutional reform. By identifying gaps in service delivery, inefficiencies in governance, or outdated policies, CSOs push governments to improve their systems and processes. Focus advocacy for better healthcare, education, infrastructure and many others often lead to reforms that enhance the competence and effectiveness of public institutions.
SICTU therefore called on CSOs and their partners in Solomon Islands and abroad to play their crucial role in educating public about their rights and responsibilities.
“Through awareness campaigns, workshops, and media engagement, CSOs empower citizens to demand better governance. SICTU believe that an informed and engaged populace is more likely to hold leaders accountable and participate in decision-making processes, creating a feedback loop that strengthens institutions.”
SICTU said in the absence of strong opposition or ineffective oversight mechanisms, CSOs must prepare to step in to provide checks and balances by challenging unjust laws, advocating for judicial independence and resisting authoritarian tendencies.
“CSOs ensure that power is not concentrated in the hands of a few. This balance is critical for preventing abuse of power and maintaining the integrity of institutions.
“Strong CSOs are indispensable for creating and sustaining strong governments and institutions. By holding leaders accountable, advocating for citizen rights, and fostering public engagement, civil society ensures that governments perform their duties competently and ethically.
“In doing so, it will not only strengthen democratic governance, but also build a foundation for sustainable development and social justice. Governments must recognise and collaborate with civil society in order to achieve long-term stability and public trust.”
