Fiji has made a significant step in the realm of cybersecurity by becoming the first Pacific nation and the 50th globally to sign the Second Additional Protocol to the Budapest Convention against Cybercrime. This milestone, celebrated during the Council of Europe’s Octopus Conference in Strasbourg, France, underscores Fiji’s ongoing dedication to strengthening its position in global cybersecurity efforts.
The signing was executed by Tupou Baravilala, the director-general for Digital Government Transformation, who stated that Fiji is committed to engaging actively in international cybersecurity issues, which extend beyond its borders. Ms. Baravilala highlighted Fiji’s active participation in vital international forums, such as the upcoming final session of the UN Open Ended Working Group on Cyber, the Pacific Islands Forum ICT Ministers meeting in Fiji in August, and its instrumental role in the negotiations leading to the UN Convention against Cybercrime.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Communications, Manoa Kamikamica, reinforced the government’s strategic priorities concerning national cyber resilience. He emphasized that the Second Additional Protocol solidifies Fiji’s commitment to providing a secure, accessible, and dependable ICT environment, enhancing the capacities of national police and investigative authorities.
Notably, the Second Additional Protocol facilitates direct cooperation between law enforcement and service providers in member countries during emergencies, while also safeguarding human rights and personal data protection. This aligns with Fiji’s previous accession to the Budapest Convention last June, aimed at enhancing cross-border cooperation in combating cybercrime and streamlining access to electronic evidence.
Fiji’s legal frameworks are currently under modernization, including the development of a National Cybersecurity Strategy and a National Privacy and Personal Data Protection Policy, supported by the Council of Europe C-PROC Office. This advancement illustrates the government’s proactive approach to aligning national legislation with global standards, fostering a safer digital environment both within its borders and in the Pacific region.
With its ongoing collaborations and commitments to strengthening its cybersecurity infrastructure, Fiji is positioning itself as a leader in the Pacific against cybercrime. This is not only beneficial for Fiji but also serves as an inspiring example for other nations in the region, reinforcing the importance of unity and collaboration in tackling the challenges posed by cyber threats.
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