Elections and Electoral Quality in Solomon Islands

Abstract

Despite weak governance, challenging geography, and conflict at the turn of the millennium, Solomon Islands has succeeded in holding eight general elections since becoming an independent nation in 1978. Elections, particularly recent ones, have also been admirably free of large-scale maleficence associated with the electoral process. However, around their periphery vote buying and voter coercion are issues, and some aspects of process — most notably the roll — have been imperfect. In this In Brief I discuss Solomon Islands elections, starting with aspects of elections that have worked well, before examining problems. Finally, I look forward to elections scheduled for later this year (2014) and beyond.