A United Nations-led project is helping Palau improve its border security and health measures. Launched in November 2021, the three-year initiative is a partnership between the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). It was originally created to help Fiji, Vanuatu, and Palau manage their borders during the COVID-19 pandemic while keeping travel smooth and secure.
“We have been able to expand that after the pandemic to address other security concerns,” said Peter Polloi, director of the Bureau of Aviation, during a press tour last week.
Since the project began, it has provided border officials with personal protective equipment, barriers for crowd control, and digital signs to improve public health measures. As Palau moved past COVID-19, new security risks such as organized crime, drug trafficking, and human trafficking became a concern. To help address these threats, the project funded the installation of security cameras at Palau’s airport.
One major achievement came in September 2022 when Palau created the Coordinated Border Management (CBM) working group. This team, made up of different border agencies, works together to improve security. The CBM was formed with support from UNDP and local officials, and President Surangel Whipps Jr. aims to make it a permanent group to help keep the country safe. Japan has also contributed by helping improve Palau’s digital entry system, making travel more efficient.
Japan’s support for this initiative has helped Palau strengthen its border security. By providing advanced technology and better health procedures, Japan and UNDP have assisted Palau in creating safer entry points to protect both residents and visitors from health and security threats. (By: L.N. Reklai)