Two officers from the Vanuatu Law Reform Commission (VLRC) are currently undertaking a four-week professional placement in Honiara with the Solomon Islands Law Reform Commission (SILRC).

According to a statement issued yesterday by the Ministry of Justice, Youth and Community Services (MOJYCS), this initiative is part of an ongoing law reform twinning programme between the two agencies.

“This collaboration, which began in April 2015 when the VLRC hosted the first SILRC delegation in Port Vila, reached a new milestone following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two commissions on 24 October 2024,” the Ministry said.

“The MOU builds on an earlier agreement signed on 23 October 2024 between the Ministries of Justice of both countries during a ceremony at the Chiefs Nakamal in Port Vila, attended by Member of Parliament (MP) and Minister of Justice and Legal Affairs of the Solomon Islands Clenzy Rore, and his delegation.”

The MOJYCS also noted that the current placement, which began last week, is being led by VLRC Secretary Mr. Lawson Samuel, accompanied by officers Ms Vivianne Laumae and Ms Lucienne Melkum. The team will work closely with SILRC until 22 August 2025, focusing on law reform priorities including cybercrime, a review of marriage laws, and personal harm offences.

The VLRC team also participated in the SILRC-hosted Law Reform Commission Workshop held on 29–30 July 2025.

The MOJYCS added that during his welcoming address on 28 July 2025, the SILRC Chairman described the partnership as “a very fruitful and learning opportunity for both law reform agencies,” while also acknowledging the logistical challenges involved in securing entry visas for the VLRC team.

Mr. Samuel called the exchange as a valuable platform for mutual learning and the strengthening of legal systems. “Law reform is not just a legal exercise, it is a tool for nation-building. Strengthening laws strengthens our national institutions, ensuring they better reflect and respond to the realities of our communities,” he said.

The Twinning and Placement Programme continues to attract interest from other Solomon Islands government ministries, many of which are exploring ways to establish or deepen ties with their counterparts in Vanuatu. This initiative reflects the value of subregional cooperation and professional exchange in building stronger, more responsive legal frameworks for Pacific communities.