Fiji: New national security strategies will take time to operationalise and achieve outcomes

7 May

Several national security initiatives have taken place over the reporting period. Cabinet approved the establishment of an Office for National Security Assessments, allowing the Prime Minister to appoint a National Security Advisor that will provide advice at an interagency level on internal and external security. Parliament has supported reforms within the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) to address officer retention, public relations, and cadet training - cadet training is seen as a part of recruitment and community outreach. Similarly, announcements were made regarding a review of the Fiji Police Force (FPF), aimed at increasing community engagement, proactive policing, and training. The FPF Commissioner also signed a memorandum of understanding with the Fiji Ports Corporation to increase intelligence sharing, crime prevention, and prosecutions. Furthermore, the FPF took receipt of a remotely piloted underwater vehicle from Japan and signed an agreement with the Embassy to supply a multipurpose disaster response vessel.

Assessment: The broad security initiatives follow the release of Fiji’s National Security and Defence Report in October 2024, the appointment of new ministers with security portfolios in January 2025, and the RFMF-FPF joint task force established in February. Key goals are maritime security, countering drug trafficking, and community reconciliation with the security forces. It will highly likely take time for the strategic initiatives to translate into outcomes. Operationalising these priorities will be a significant challenge due to the large maritime area requiring surveillance in order to better target illicit trade occurring through Fiji's borders.

Sources: Shania Shayal Prasad, “Police Equipped with Advanced Machine to Combat Maritime Crimes,” Fiji Times, April 30, 2025; “Security to Be Enhanced at Major Ports,” FBC News, April 29, 2025; “PM to Appoint National Security Advisor,” FBC News, May 7, 2025; Riya Mala, “RFMF Pushes for Changes,” FBC News, May 2, 2025; Ritika Pratap “Budget Targets Police Restructuring,” FBC News, May 6, 2025; “Fiji and Japan Ink Deal for New Disaster Relief,” FBC News, June 17, 2025