Fiji’s national security framework is lacking a unified national intelligence assessment capability, according to the Fiji National Security and Defence Review Report. The report points out that the Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration mainly relies on open sources for strategic intelligence, while its Immigration Department manages its own immigration intelligence network.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs develops a diplomatic information network, whereas the Republic of Fiji Military Forces focuses on military intelligence at both operational and tactical levels. The Fiji Police Force is responsible for collecting and analyzing criminal intelligence and providing domestic security, while the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service handles customs intelligence.
The report emphasizes that while it is beneficial for individual agencies to manage their specific intelligence streams, there is a critical need for effective intelligence-sharing between them. It states, “Fiji’s intelligence functions are not centralized in a joint national intelligence body at the highest level of government. This shortcoming can create potential gaps in information flow and hinder the development of a cohesive response strategy.”
To enhance the effectiveness of national leadership and improve intelligence coordination, the government is urged to create a centralized national intelligence framework that consolidates various intelligence activities. This initiative would strengthen strategic decision-making, provide better situational awareness, and ensure that the Prime Minister and Cabinet receive timely, thorough, and actionable intelligence.