RAMSI kam fo helpem iumi blo Solomons.

The Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) is a partnership between the Government and people of Solomon Islands and the contributing countries of the Pacific region. It is a long-term exercise aimed at helping create the conditions necessary for a return to stability, peace and a growing economy.

RAMSI was deployed on 24 July 2003, with a mandate unanimously approved by the Solomon Islands National Parliament, to help the Solomon Islands Government restore law and order, strengthen government institutions, reduce corruption and re-invigorate the economy.

RAMSI is a truly regional response to a regional challenge. Fifteen countries contribute personnel to the mission, including police officers, military personnel and civilians (including public service officers from the governments of contributing countries).

All RAMSI personnel are required to abide by personnel guidelines when conducting their work in Solomon Islands.

The Participating Police Force (PPF) initially had a very direct role in restoring law and order. The PPF continues to work in partnership with the Solomon Islands Police Force focusing on developing their capacity through training and providing advice.

The Combined Task Force is the military component of RAMSI that provides security and support to the PPF.

The Office of the Special Coordinator is responsible for the overall coordination of RAMSI’s work, and for liaison and consultation with the Solomon Islands Government and with other parts of Solomon Islands society.

RAMSI approaches its work in Solomon Islands according to a number of key principles.

RAMSI personnel work in every province in Solomon Islands, working with and alongside Solomon Islanders to get the nation working and growing again.

RAMSI’s first priority in July 2003 was focused on restoring security and law and order, and stabilising government finances. Security was restored across the country soon after RAMSI arrived and thousands of illegal weapons were taken out of the community.

RAMSI is helping to rebuild the Solomon Islands Police Force and provide training to new recruits and existing officers. The justice and prison systems have been strengthened, with considerable support being provided to the courts.

RAMSI advisers, working closely with the Solomon Islands Government, have stabilised public finances, enabling the delivery of basic services to the community, the payment of salaries to public servants and the production of a responsible budget. Anti-corruption institutions have received support, helping to ensure accountable decision making and transparency in government.

RAMSI has begun work on longer-term issues, focusing on measures to restore economic growth, strengthen governance and promote accountability in government. RAMSI is working with the Solomon Islands Government to ensure that future budgets are sustainable, and reflect governmental policies and priorities.

Other priorities are to strengthen economic policy and planning processes, further strengthen revenue collection, implement a comprehensive debt management strategy and improve the enabling environment for private sector development and investment.

How do we know if RAMSI is achieving its goals?