Fiji

Abstract

Fiji has a large exclusive economic zone (EEZ) but a small landmass. Fiji’s national interests focus on the maritime domain, involving human, economic, and environmental security. However, maritime domain awareness is not mirrored in the security apparatus. Since independence in 1970, Fiji’s security apparatus has focussed on the land domain; maintaining domestic security and UN peacekeeping deployments. Its capacity for policing its EEZ is limited. By contrast, at the regional level, Fiji has a highly institutionalised response to managing maritime resources. Fiji ascribes to the Pacific Island Forum’s 2050 Blue Pacific Strategy and is an active member of regional fora, such as the Forum Fisheries Agency. Fiji’s maritime security concerns are supported by aid donors. However, many donors also support the maintenance of a traditional security apparatus to counter geopolitical threats which are not a priority for Fiji. This mismatch in focus on internal and international security and human security reveals limitations in the capacity of the state to respond to core threats.