BY NED GAGAHE
In a major step for electoral research, the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) on Thursday launched the comprehensive 2024 Solomon Islands Elections Research Report, produced in partnership with the Australian National University (ANU).
The landmark study – the most detailed of its kind ever done in our country – combines data from 5,300 voter surveys and 570 observer reports covering 15 constituencies nationwide.
It provides unprecedented insights into what shaped last year’s national elections.
SINU Vice Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau told attendees the research partnership went beyond paperwork to create real “people-to-people” connections between Solomon Islands and Australian academics.
“True democracy doesn’t end when votes are counted,” Mr Aqorau said.
“When ordinary people get sidelined after elections, we risk creating a system where only the powerful have a voice.”
The report highlights five key areas:
- How voters learn about elections
- Problems with voter lists and polling security
- Why few women enter politics
- How MP funds influence voting
- Public trust in the system after elections
ANU’s Dr Sonia Palmieri praised the “historic cooperation” between the universities, while Australian High Commission Minister Counsellor Lindsay Buckingham said the findings would help strengthen Solomon Islands democracy.
Electoral Commission CEO Jasper Anisi welcomed the research, saying: “These findings will help us improve future elections.”
The SINU-ANU research team, including Dr Colin Wiltshire, Dr Lincy Pende, Dr Leonora Houma, Ms Vhairi Devi, and Dr John Fasi also presented on the key findings of the report during the event.
Aqorau closed his remarks with words from former US President Kennedy: “When voters don’t understand the system, everyone’s future is at risk.”
The full report is now available at SINU for students, policymakers and the public.
Aqorau said this is just the beginning of more local research partnerships to come.
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