Fiji is confronting a significant challenge in revitalizing its fundamental institutions, which have been weakened by years of military rule and the loss of institutional knowledge through retirements and emigration. This decline has undermined essential skills and reduced the capacity of these institutions to provide candid and informed advice to the government.
This issue is emphasized in Fiji’s Foreign Policy White Paper 2024, recently launched at the Grand West Pacific Hotel in Suva. The document asserts that strong institutions are crucial for effective governance, a principle that equally applies to foreign policy.
The report states, “An effective foreign policy requires an effective Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) along with a network of diplomatic posts that have clearly defined objectives, stringent performance evaluations, and the requisite analytical skills.”
To enhance the diplomatic workforce, the government plans to establish a Diplomatic Training Centre within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This center aims to focus on recruiting and training career Fijian diplomats, underscoring the recognition of diplomacy as a professional field. Over time, it could also serve as a training hub for diplomats from other small island nations with limited diplomatic resources.
The report outlines that diplomatic skills involve defining national interests, fostering relationships, evaluating issues concerning Fiji’s interests, utilizing networks to promote those interests, and keeping the government informed about external factors affecting the country.
Additionally, it emphasizes the need for expertise in negotiating trade agreements, attracting foreign investments, and understanding market access challenges—all vital for advancing Fiji’s international goals.
Ultimately, a comprehensive understanding of Fiji’s economic framework, growth drivers, potential risks, and the interplay between domestic and international policies is essential for developing these skills. The report concludes by stating that the efforts of Fiji’s diplomatic missions are crucial for the success of its foreign policy.