Fiji’s national security framework currently lacks a centralized intelligence assessment unit, as indicated in the Fiji National Security and Defence Review Report.
The report points out that the Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration predominantly relies on open-source intelligence, while its Immigration Department maintains its own immigration intelligence network. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is tasked with managing a diplomatic information network, and the Republic of Fiji Military Forces focuses on military intelligence at both operational and tactical levels. The Fiji Police Force is responsible for gathering and evaluating criminal intelligence and providing domestic security, while the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service handles customs intelligence.
Although the report recognizes the benefits of each agency overseeing its specific intelligence function, it stresses the need for strong intelligence-sharing mechanisms between them.
The report states, “Fiji’s intelligence functions are not unified under a central national intelligence body within the government. This shortcoming may result in information gaps and hinder the development of a cohesive response strategy.”
To enhance the effectiveness of national leadership and foster a coordinated intelligence approach, the government should consider creating a centralized national intelligence framework that unifies the various intelligence operations.
Implementing this framework would improve strategic decision-making, boost situational awareness, and ensure that the Prime Minister and Cabinet are provided with timely, comprehensive, and actionable intelligence.
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