The Fiji National Security & Defence Review 2024 (NSDR 2024), is a comprehensive assessment of the country’s core security risks and strategic priorities, marks a significant milestone in Fiji’s journey towards enhancing national sovereignty and resilience. The review, mandated by the Fijian Government in 2023 and culminating in the approval of Fiji’s National Security Strategy in 2025, reflects a collaborative effort among Government, academia, and civil society to address evolving regional and global threats.
Ana Rokomokoti, Acting Head of School of Law, Ethics and Governance at Fiji National University (FNU) and Assistant Professor within the College of Humanities, Education and Law (CHEL), shared insights into the review process and the strategic direction for Fiji’s future security landscape.
Understanding the Fiji National Security & Defence Review
Rokomokoti explained the NSDR is about assessing the core risks to Fiji’s national security. “The risks were identified through submissions and face-to-face consultations with stakeholders across Government, the community, and civil society. The report prepared by the Review team presented the findings to the Government through the then Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, now Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs, the Honourable Pio Tikoduadua.”
The review was led by Colonel Retired James Sanday, a former officer of the Royal Fiji Military Forces and a seasoned public servant from Australia’s Department of Defence. The team also included Professor Satish Chand of the University of New South Wales and Dr Shailendra Singh of the University of the South Pacific.
Her Role and Contributions
Rokomokoti was part of this team, contributing as a legal advisor and member of the editorial board. “My role was in a way twofold; one being a member of the team assisting Col Sanday in consultations, active listening, asking clarifying questions, and analysing information. As a member of the editorial board working under Professor Chand’s guidance, I helped ensure the report’s content was accurate and aligned with legal frameworks. Additionally, I served as a legal advisor to the review, ensuring that all responses and formulations were within the confines of Fijian law.”
She highlighted the importance of her legal expertise, playing the contrarian to ensure objectivity. “Knowledge and experience of national security laws were crucial in ensuring the recommendations and conclusions were legally sound.”
Rokomokoti’s involvement in the review is particularly notable as she is the only woman in the team, bringing a unique perspective from her background as a former soldier and current academician. Her participation underscores the importance of diversity and inclusion in Fiji’s security sector. “I am very grateful to the Government for this opportunity to contribute to policy making at the national level. This review and the subsequent strategies will serve as a foundation for Fiji’s security in the years to come,” she said.
Challenges and Priorities
Among the other challenges faced during the review, Rokomokoti identified defining “national security” as fundamental yet challenging one. Especially so, in the legal context of things. It was critical to ensure that the NSDR 2024 adopted a definition that would be suitable and appropriate for Fiji, so as to enable Fiji to use it as a standard: The consensus was to adopt the definition that ‘National Security entails the pursuit of psychological and physical safety which is the responsibility of the State, to prevent and respond to threats and risks to the well-being of its people and their way of life.’
Another challenging task was (and will always be) “Balancing civil liberties with national security concerns across traditional and non-traditional threats, such as COVID-19, was another challenge. “Living in an age where threats evolve rapidly, ensuring the right balance was key. The team’s expertise was vital in navigating these complex issues. “In my view, much credit is owed to Col Sanday who effectively led the team successfully in this exercise”
Strategic Recommendations and Future Directions
NSDR 2024 produced 24 strategically vital recommendations, many of which have already been approved by Cabinet. One of the most significant initiatives is the establishment of a Centre for Excellence in National Security & Strategic/Defence Studies at FNU. “This is a landmark achievement for FNU and a clear indication of the Government’s commitment to fostering specialised national security expertise and utilisng the nation’s national university to achieve this,” Rokomokoti affirmed. This objective is closely tied to the notion of building stronger civil-military relations.
Other key recommendations include strengthening organisational roles and coordination mechanisms within the security sector, expanding community trust initiatives, enhancing whole-of-Government collaboration, and ensuring Fiji’s security capabilities are future-ready—particularly in border, maritime, and cyber-security. The review also emphasises the importance of engaging civil society, especially youth and disadvantaged groups, in security efforts.
Enhancing Fiji’s Defence Capabilities
She elaborates that this involves conducting force posture reviews of the Police, Military, and related agencies, alongside developing strategies for maritime and digital security. “For the new security framework to succeed, a whole-of-Government, top-down approach is essential, with legislative reforms playing a critical role. Fiji’s security needs are shaped by its unique geographic, political, economic, and social context. Whole-of-Government efforts, combined with active collaboration between academia, Government, and defence sectors, are vital for effective policy development,” she stated.
“The review recommends policies that tackle economic insecurities and environmental challenges, including climate security. Protecting natural resources and promoting sustainable development are crucial for long-term resilience, especially considering the adverse effects of climate change on Fiji,” she said.
Encouraging the Next Generation
In her advice to young professionals interested in security and law, she said “If national security and the law interest you, start by gaining a solid understanding of the relevant area. Pursue appropriate education—such as a Law degree—and seek work that allows you to apply and deepen your knowledge and experience. Work experience is invaluable, and postgraduate studies in national security law can further enhance your career prospects.”
The planned establishment of the Centre for Excellence in National Security & Strategic/Defence Studies at FNU, is a Cabinet-approved initiative, is one that exemplifies the Government’s commitment to fostering specialised expertise and strategic research in national security.
For more information visit the FNU website at http://www.fnu.ac.fj
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