The Republic of Fiji Navy (RFN) is in urgent need of increased funding to enhance its maritime security capabilities, especially in areas such as maritime surveillance and the prevention of drug trafficking. This revelation comes from a report released by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence, which reviewed the annual reports of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) from 2019 to 2022.
The committee expressed serious concerns over the limited budget allocation for the RFN, which has consistently been less than 20% of the total funding for RFMF despite the growing maritime security threats that Fiji faces. According to the report, the Navy received only 11.9% of the RFMF’s total budget of $169.6 million for the 2024-2025 financial year—a decrease from 17.7% the previous year.
Concerns were raised regarding Fiji’s status as a significant transit point for heroin and a major hub for synthetic drugs, leading to heightened issues of addiction, corruption, and gang violence within the community. The RFN’s inadequate naval capacity severely hampers its ability to monitor the expansive 1.3 million square mile Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), with patrols limited to just one primary vessel and two smaller boats.
The committee recommended establishing a framework akin to New Zealand’s National Maritime Coordination Centre to improve coordination across agencies in addressing maritime security threats. Additional proposals included acquiring more vessels to enhance patrol frequency, extending operational reach, and minimizing response times to illegal activities. The establishment of a ‘Department of Maritime Affairs’ was also suggested to streamline reporting and expedite the resolution of urgent maritime issues.
This situation is compounded by findings from the recently published National Security and Defence Review Report, which indicates that Fiji’s role has shifted from merely being a transit zone for organized crime to becoming a destination for illicit activities, particularly drug trafficking. This transformation has been facilitated by a compromised security sector, ineffective border controls, and the increased availability of drugs, including those laced with dangerous substances like fentanyl.
The report highlights the urgent need for the government to bolster border security, improve customs and immigration processes, and promote international cooperation to combat these challenges. Importantly, it also emphasizes the potential role of faith-based organizations and youth support groups in addressing social issues arising from drug addiction and mitigating these challenges.
As Fiji faces these formidable challenges, the emphasis on improving the Navy’s capabilities and enhancing border security could pave the way for a stronger framework to combat drug trafficking and safeguard national security, ultimately fostering a safer environment for its citizens.
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