Fiji is poised to reassess its peacekeeping operations as part of a strategic initiative to align its international commitments with domestic and regional security needs. This decision stems from recommendations made in Fiji’s National Security and Defence Review, which highlighted the necessity of evaluating the country’s longstanding peacekeeping roles given shifts in the global and regional security landscape.
As a proactive measure, the Fijian government plans to create a National Peace Operations Strategy (NPS) designed to inform future policy decisions. The Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs has announced a search for a consultant who can facilitate this comprehensive review.
Fiji boasts over four decades of experience in international peacekeeping missions, particularly those organized by the United Nations. However, officials recognize a lack of a cohesive national framework to oversee future deployments, develop capabilities, prioritize training, and allocate resources effectively.
The changing dynamics of global peacekeeping—characterized by a reduction in large-scale missions, heightened geopolitical rivalries, and a trend toward specific, modular operations—underscore the urgent need for a structured national strategy. The proposed NPS aims to articulate Fiji’s strategic objectives in peace operations, identify priority areas for engagement, and formulate an actionable plan based on available resources.
Furthermore, the strategy will take into account Fiji’s regional leadership aspirations, particularly concerning the utilization of the Blackrock Peacekeeping and Humanitarian Disaster Response Camp as a central hub for operations in the region. The collaborative effort between the Ministry of Defence and other key agencies will ensure that the NPS reflects a comprehensive approach to peacekeeping going forward.
This initiative signals Fiji’s commitment to maintaining its significant role in peacekeeping while adapting to the changing global environment, reinforcing its dedication to international stability and regional security.
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