Leader of the Opposition, Inia Seruiratu, is pressing the Fiji government to fast-track new drone legislation, arguing that Fiji’s use of drone technology brings both significant benefits and potential risks to national security. Speaking during Parliament’s discussion on the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji’s 2023 annual report, Seruiratu said updated drone laws are needed to close regulatory gaps and better manage the evolving landscape.
“This is an interesting issue,” Seruiratu remarked, noting that a national security review has been completed and that the country is awaiting the national security strategy. He referenced the Defence Minister’s comments about traditional and non-traditional threats, underscoring the shifting nature of security challenges in an era of increasingly capable unmanned systems.
Drawing on his military background, Seruiratu recalled a 2006 essay on airpower, including drones, in Afghanistan and Iraq, where the debate centered on whether drone-enabled conflicts constitute conventional or non-conventional warfare. He acknowledged the positive uses of drones in disaster response and agriculture, but warned that drones can be exploited by hostile actors if not properly regulated. “In capable hands, we hope these areas will be expedited,” he said, urging the government to move swiftly on the committee’s drone-related recommendations.
Context and implications
– The push to strengthen drone legislation comes as Fiji weighs how best to balance innovation and safety, ensuring that drone technology can aid civil operations while mitigating potential misuse.
– The national security framework in Fiji is currently being reinforced through the National Security and Defence Review (NSDR), which emphasizes cross-government collaboration, civilian oversight, and the development of a comprehensive national security strategy. This broader security context supports calls for clearer drone rules and robust regulatory oversight.
– In related developments, authorities have signaled growing interest in using drones to augment border security and intelligence sharing. Drones are being discussed as tools to improve real-time monitoring and deter illicit activity, particularly in remote frontier regions. There are ongoing efforts to integrate drone-enabled surveillance with other security measures such as container screening programs, joint operations with the navy, and other technology tools to strengthen overall border protection.
Additional context from related security discussions
– Fiji’s security environment has increasingly highlighted the need to modernize frameworks to address cyber threats, transnational crime, and evolving risks at the border. The NSDR and accompanying security reform conversations stress that national security requires coordinated action across government, civil society, and the private sector, which will shape how drone regulations are designed and enforced.
Key takeaways for policymakers
– Accelerate legislative work to close regulatory gaps in drone usage, licensing, privacy protections, flight safety, and enforcement mechanisms.
– Align drone regulation with broader national security objectives, ensuring proportionate oversight that supports both civilian benefits (disaster response, agriculture, search-and-rescue) and security needs (crime prevention, counter-terrorism, border integrity).
– Foster interagency collaboration and public communication to build trust in drone technologies and the regulatory framework, in line with NSDR principles.
Summary
Seruiratu’s call to fast-track drone legislation reflects a broader recognition that Fiji must harness the benefits of drone technology while safeguarding against risks. With NSDR and cross-agency security initiatives underway, a clear, balanced regulatory regime could help Fiji leverage drones for public safety, disaster response, and economic resilience, while strengthening national security and border controls.
Positive note
There is strong potential for Fiji to establish a forward-looking, well-regulated drone ecosystem that supports emergency response, agricultural innovation, and safer borders—provided that legislation keeps pace with technology and is designed with transparency and civilian oversight in mind.
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