Fiji marks International Anti-Corruption Day 2025, revives youth-led movement

Fiji joined countries around the world to mark International Anti-Corruption Day 2025 in Suva today.

The event aimed to raise awareness about the dangers of corruption.

This year’s theme, “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity,” focused on young people and highlighted their growing role in protecting democracy, fairness, and public trust.

The event also marked the official revival of a national youth-led anti-corruption movement that once operated under Youth for Integrity. The group was created years ago to empower young people to speak out against corruption but later became inactive.

Integrity Fiji board member Ulaiasi Tuikoro said the revival symbolises a fresh start and a long-term commitment to strengthening youth leadership.

“Integrity Fiji was founded out of a youth initiative,” Mr Tuikoro said.
“We faced challenges and could not continue the work for some time, but with new leadership, we are reviving the movement. This fight cannot be a one-time event; it must continue, and young people must stand up against corruption every day.”

Mr Tuikoro said youths play a unique and powerful role because of the world they live in.

“If you guide youths in the right direction, they will grow into people who do things right,” he said. “But if we leave them on their own, they may think wrong actions are normal.”

He added that young people are strongest when they unite.

“When one youth calls out corruption, others will support them. That is the spirit we want to build—a collective voice,” he said.

“Parents must allow their children to join meaningful youth groups and also educate themselves, because young people today are more informed and confident.”

Chief guest Marie Cauchois from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime said youths are already leading change in the Pacific.

“Corruption takes away opportunities and weakens communities, but you, the youth, can change the story,” she said.

“Integrity is your superpower. When youth, government, business, and communities stand together, corruption cannot win.”

She encouraged young people to take action in their schools, homes, and online spaces, reminding them that the global fight against corruption includes their voices.