Immigration representatives from Palau, Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) and the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) gathered for the highly anticipated Northern Pacific Immigration Core Elements (ICE) Advanced Intelligence course from the 26th – 29th August, 2025 at the Palasia Hotel in Koror, Palau. The immigration intelligence specific course was co-hosted by the Pacific Immigration Development Community (PIDC), and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crimes (UNODC) with technical expert support from Immigration New Zealand (INZ).
Building upon the learning model of the INZ Immigration Hakili Matagi ICE framework, the advanced intelligence training has been designed to enhance the knowledge and capabilities of immigration intelligence professionals and more importantly to: (i) Strenghen immigration intelligence expertise and leadership at the national level in Palau, FSM and RMI; (ii) Assist Palau, FSM, and RMI to detect, measure, investigate and prevent the use of identity crime at their borders and thereby reduce identity crime by third country nationals in the Pacific region; and (iii) Support and participate in regional information sharing.
There were five participants from FSM and RMI, creating a dynamic and diverse learning environment that fostered regional cooperation. Palau was represented by five immigration officers and one customs officer, whose participation reflected the growing importance of intelligence work across border-related agencies.
Throughout the week, participants engaged in intensive learning modules and practical exercises focused on intelligence processing, risk assessment, and information coordination. The training reinforced the critical role immigration officers play as the first line of defense at their countries’ international ports of entry and exit—tasked with preventing the entry of undesirable aliens, fugitives, and individuals who may pose threats to public safety and national security.
As border challenges continue to evolve, the need to strengthen intelligence work and enhance inter-agency collaboration remains paramount. Effective border security depends on timely, accurate intelligence and seamless cooperation between national and regional partners. This course marked a significant step toward building resilient systems that empower immigration officers to safeguard borders with confidence and precision.
In his opening remarks, Mr. John Tarkong, Director of the Palau Bureau of Customs and Border Protection, emphasized that the training course aims to empower Palau, FSM, and RMI to build domestic expertise and establish reliable systems for information sharing—both within their own agencies and across the broader Pacific immigration network. He also extended his sincere thanks to PIDC and UNODC for their continued support and partnership, acknowledging their vital role in delivering a high-impact training experience and advancing regional efforts to strengthen immigration intelligence.