Honiara, Solomon Islands – 1 October 2026. The 2026 National Youth and Children’s Parliament (NYCP) concluded in Honiara on Thursday, 1st October 2026, with young representatives from the country’s 50 constituencies using the floor of Parliament to call for greater inclusion and stronger action to ensure essential social services reach communities across rural Solomon Islands.
Held under the theme, “Our Voices, Our Future: Decentralization of Inclusive and Accessible Social Services for All,” the programme provided young parliamentarians with an opportunity to debate issues affecting children, young people and their communities, while developing recommendations aimed at bringing services, resources and decision-making closer to the people.
“Decentralization is not just about shifting workers to rural areas. It is also about bringing services down to the rural areas where people need them the most,” said Baegu Asifola constituency NYCP participant Daniel Terry.
Child MP for Temotu Nende, Serahlyn Mewa, said access to basic health services must remain a priority in efforts to improve services in rural communities.
“If we are serious about the future, then we must start with the basics. Health cannot wait; sickness cannot wait for a boat. Therefore, I call on the Government to prioritise the decentralisation of health services,” she said.
Throughout the programme, young parliamentarians highlighted the need for improved access to quality education, healthcare, clean and reliable water, sanitation and hygiene, justice, communication and other essential services, particularly for people living in rural and remote communities.
They emphasised that decentralisation requires proper planning, sustained investment in rural infrastructure and a stronger focus on ensuring that resources, services and decision-making are accessible to communities.
The young parliamentarians also recognised the importance of investing in water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) as an investment in the health, dignity and future of children.
Gao Bughotu constituency Child MP Lenrick Jones said young people must continue to be included in discussions and decisions affecting their lives.
“Our voice should not be heard only at special events like this. Our voice should be heard and acted upon. Our voice is calling for inclusion and action,” he said.
The discussions and debates throughout the NYCP reflected the importance of providing children and young people with meaningful opportunities to participate in democratic processes and express their views on issues affecting their communities and the nation.
Recommendations developed during the 2026 National Youth and Children’s Parliament will be presented to the Speaker of the National Parliament for consideration.
The National Parliament of Solomon Islands, through the programme, continues to provide a platform for young people to develop their understanding of Parliament and democracy, strengthen their confidence, public speaking and leadership skills, and contribute constructively to national discussions.
The NYCP is organised by the National Parliament of Solomon Islands, with support from UNICEF and funding from the European Union.
The National Parliament acknowledges UNICEF and the European Union for their continued support towards the successful implementation of the initiative.
