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The University of the South Pacific (USP) and the Papua New Guinea’s Department of Justice and Attorney General (DJAG) formalised a partnership to ensure the sustainable operation of the Pacific Islands Legal Information Institute (PacLII). This is a crucial step in advancing good governance and the rule of law across the Pacific region, in line with the ambitious 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. The partnership was formally signed in Port Moresby, PNG, on the margins of the Pacific Islands Network of Legal Officers (PILON) meeting on 30 October 2025. This symbolised a collective commitment to strengthening legal frameworks and promoting transparent, accessible justice throughout the Pacific. This initiative directly contributes to the 2050 Strategy’s vision of a secure, prosperous, and resilient Blue Pacific, underpinned by sound legal systems and informed communities. Under the terms of the agreement, DJAG has pledged both, financial commitment and in-kind support over a five-year period, commencing in 2026. PacLII, an initiative proudly hosted at USP’s School of Law and Social Sciences (SoLaSS), is a founding member of the global Free Access to Law Movement (FALM). Adhering to the principles enshrined in the Declaration on Free Access to Law (the Montreal Declaration), PacLII champions the belief that public legal information is a common heritage of humanity. By providing free access to this information, PacLII significantly contributes to access to justice, the rule of law, and the economic development and stability of nations throughout the Pacific – all critical pillars of the 2050 Strategy. “This partnership with the PNG Department of Justice and Attorney General is a monumental step forward in our shared vision for a more just and equitable Pacific, directly supporting the aspirations of the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent,” stated Professor Afshin Akhtar-Khavari, Head of USP’s School of Law and Social Sciences. Professor Akhtar-Khavari who represented USP at the signing added: “As a premier higher education and research organisation in the Pacific, USP is committed to empowering our communities. PacLII, through its provision of free legal information, is instrumental in fostering transparency, good governance, and informed decision-making, which are vital for the sustainable development and security of our Blue Pacific.” “The Department of Justice and Attorney General is proud to partner with The University of the South Pacific in supporting PacLII. Our financial commitment underscores our belief that accessible legal information is fundamental to a robust justice system, the rule of law, and the overall development of Papua New Guinea and the wider Pacific region. This agreement signifies a collective effort to strengthen legal frameworks and promote transparency for all our citizens, aligning perfectly with the spirit and objectives of the 2050 Strategy,” said Dr Eric Kwa from the PNG Department of Justice and Attorney General (DJAG). The agreement outlines responsibilities for both parties, with USP committing to maintain and enhance PacLII’s comprehensive and reliable legal information system and provide annual reports to DJAG. Both parties will collaborate on exchanging legal and regulatory resources and work together to ensure PacLII’s objectives are met and continually improved using their collective expertise. About Pacific Islands Legal Information Institute (PacLII): Based at The University of the South Pacific’s (USP) School of Law and Social Sciences, PacLII is a key initiative dedicated to providing free, online access to public legal information from 18 Pacific Island countries and territories. As a founding member of the Free Access to Law Movement, PacLII plays a crucial role in promoting the rule of law and access to justice throughout the region, essential for a prosperous and resilient Blue Pacific. About the Independent State of Papua New Guinea Department of Justice and Attorney General (DJAG): DJAG is a governmental agency forming part of the National Public Service in Papua New Guinea. It serves as the central agency providing justice-related services and supports the Attorney General, who is the principal legal adviser to the National Executive Council.
