Fiji’s national security framework is currently lacking a unified national intelligence assessment capability, according to the recently released Fiji National Security and Defence Review Report.
The report reveals that the Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration primarily depends on open-source information for strategic intelligence, while the Immigration Department operates its own intelligence network. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs manages a diplomatic information network, and the Republic of Fiji Military Forces focuses on military intelligence at operational and tactical levels. The Fiji Police Force is tasked with gathering and evaluating criminal intelligence to provide domestic security, and the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service handles customs intelligence.
The report emphasized that while there are advantages to individual agencies managing their specific intelligence areas, it is essential to implement effective intelligence-sharing mechanisms.
It notes, “Fiji’s intelligence functions lack a centralized national intelligence body at the highest levels of government. This shortcoming may result in gaps in information flows and hinder the development of a cohesive response strategy.”
To address these issues, the report suggests that the government should explore the establishment of a centralized national intelligence framework that brings together various intelligence operations. This move would enhance strategic decision-making, improve situational awareness, and ensure that the Prime Minister and Cabinet receive timely, comprehensive, and actionable intelligence.