Fiji’s President and Commander-in-Chief Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu announced that the government will make a decision this year regarding an invitation for Fijian peacekeepers to serve in Gaza. Speaking in Parliament on Monday, he praised the ongoing contributions of Fijian peacekeepers worldwide, emphasizing the country’s noted reputation developed over 48 years of global peacekeeping efforts.
“Fiji’s global standing in peacekeeping has enabled our nation to figuratively punch above its weight,” stated Ratu Naiqama, expressing confidence in the Fijian forces’ readiness for new missions. The country has established a strong track record in international peacekeeping, particularly under the auspices of the United Nations.
In addition to addressing the potential mission in Gaza, Ratu Naiqama highlighted a forthcoming review of Fiji’s peacekeeping operations. This initiative is part of a broader effort aimed at aligning Fiji’s international commitments with domestic and regional security needs, following recommendations from the National Security and Defence Review.
As part of these efforts, the government plans to develop a National Peace Operations Strategy (NPS) to guide future operational decisions. The Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs is currently seeking a consultant to facilitate this review process. The tender document acknowledges over four decades of involvement in international peacekeeping but also highlights the absence of a cohesive national framework for guiding future missions, capability development, training, and resource allocation.
The dynamics of global peacekeeping are evolving, with trends showing fewer large-scale missions and a shift towards more specialized operations. These changes present a significant reason for Fiji to adopt a structured national approach to peacekeeping. The proposed NPS will aim to clarify Fiji’s strategic objectives in peace operations, identify priority areas for engagement, and outline an actionable plan based on available resources.
The strategy will also embrace Fiji’s regional leadership role, leveraging the Blackrock Peacekeeping and Humanitarian Disaster Response Camp as a central hub for peacekeeping efforts. The Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs is set to spearhead this initiative alongside key partners, marking a proactive step in ensuring Fiji’s contributions to global peacekeeping remain relevant and effective.
Leave a comment