LocationsPioneering Legal Internship Strengthens Ties Between Nauru and Fiji
October 7, 2024
Nauru Law Society pleaders in Suva, Fiji.
Suva, Fiji - Eight pleaders from the Nauru Law Society have completed a two-week study tour in Fiji, engaging with private and public sector law firms as part of capacity building and professional development efforts.
This initiative was funded by the Australian Government under the Nauru Accountable and Inclusive Growth (NAIG) project, implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Pacific Office in Fiji is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between both government and private legal institutions in Fiji.
This hands-on experience allowed the pleaders to directly engage in client and case management, conduct in-depth legal research, and practice advocacy skills. The practical exposure provided them with essential, applicable training, empowering them to navigate complex legal systems more effectively upon their return to Nauru.
The program was made possible through the collaboration of legal institutions, including Jamnadas and Associates, LexConnect, Siwatibau and Sloan, Haniff Tuitoga Lawyers, and the Legal Aid Commission (LAC) Fiji.
In a significant milestone for regional legal collaboration, the Nauru Law Society and LAC Fiji also signed a Memorandum of Understanding which sets the stage for future collaboration between the two countries.
President of the Nauru Law Society, Barina Waqa said:
“This internship marks a new chapter in regional legal cooperation. It is the first time our pleaders have had the opportunity to gain such practical experience alongside their Fijian colleagues, and it is already making a positive impact on the legal services we provide in Nauru. Strengthening our ties with Fijian legal institutions ensures that we continue to grow our expertise and improve access to justice for all Nauruans.”
Nauru Law Society president Barina Waqa at the Legal Aid Commission in Suva, Fiji.
Nauru Law Society pleaders at the Legal Aid Commission in Suva, Fiji.
This experience has inspired the pleaders to commit to ongoing learning and professional growth, with another training session already planned for November in partnership with the Queensland Law Society. Many pleaders are enthusiastic about continuing their development, and some are now motivated to pursue further study to enhance their qualifications and professional standing in Nauru. Importantly, this opportunity has also enabled pleaders to build valuable networks and forge professional relationships, laying the foundation for ongoing collaboration and support that they and their colleagues can draw on in the future.
Australia's support for this initiative, provided through the NAIG Project is instrumental in strengthening governance institutions and promoting democracy and the rule of law in Nauru. By empowering Nauru's legal professionals, the project aims to ensure better access to justice for all Nauruans.
As part of a broader strategy, the Nauru Law Society will continue to explore potential partnerships with key Pacific legal institutions who could assist in the professional development of its members and their vision for excellence. The success of this initiative marks a promising beginning for ongoing professional exchanges, training programs, and regional partnerships between Fiji and Nauru.
For further media enquiries please contact:
Nick Turner, Communications and Advocacy Specialist | UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji | (E) nicholas.turner@undp.org
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