Palau Voluntary National Review 2024

The Palau Government’s overarching priority is encapsulated in the principle “A Kot a Rechad er Belau” (Palauan People First), aiming to ensure that Palauan people enjoy an improved quality of life, are empowered to pursue happiness, and drive national development. In reviewing progress from 2015 to 2024, Palau celebrates significant achievements while acknowledging shortfalls, many stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite its impacts, the pandemic also presented opportunities to “build back better,” a central theme of Palau’s 2024 Voluntary National Review (VNR), alongside culture as a means of SDG implementation, climate resilience, and inclusivity. The VNR is structured around five pillars: culture, people, economy, environment, and partnerships. Pillar 1, “Sustaining Our Cultural Heritage,” highlights how Palau’s culture, shaped by its environment, supports a harmonious society and modern governance while preserving tradition [...].