UN Human Rights Pacific Representative Heike Alefsen has expressed support for the ongoing review of Fiji’s Police Act, emphasizing the need for a shift towards people-centered policing. Alefsen highlighted the critical role of community engagement in shaping safety laws and building public trust within the policing framework. She confirmed her office’s readiness to assist in ensuring that the forthcoming bill aligns with Fiji’s human rights obligations, even though the final draft has not yet been presented.
Alefsen stated, “By engaging rural and urban communities, traditional leaders, the church, civil society, and populations at risk, you demonstrate that meaningful reform cannot be achieved without the participation of those affected.” This sentiment underlines the importance of inclusivity and transparency in the review process, ensuring that community needs are fully captured.
The call for modernization is not new; the Police Act has governed policing in Fiji since 1965, and Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu has noted that the legislation is outdated and needs reform to better address contemporary challenges. He urged public support for the initiative, asserting that the focus of the new law is not solely on police powers but on improving how police serve the community. “I think this piece of legislation will assist us because it’s not really focused on the powers of the police. At the end of the day, it is about how we provide service well to the public,” Tudravu stated.
The comprehensive review currently underway aims to align Fiji’s policing strategies with modern standards and human rights mandates. It follows earlier discussions initiated in May 2025, aimed at reconfiguring police authority and ensuring practices meet constitutional parameters while considering the community’s voice.
A legal consultant has been enlisted to guide this reform process, which involves high-level consultations with various stakeholders, including civil society organizations advocating for women’s rights and the needs of vulnerable populations. Emerging themes from these discussions focus on defining police authority, improving enforcement practices through technological advancements, and fostering community policing models.
To facilitate public input, an online submission portal will be launched soon, allowing Fijians to contribute their recommendations. A Consultation Paper and draft Police Bill are expected to be unveiled in August 2025, followed by nationwide public consultations to gather further input. This level of public engagement is seen as essential for the development of laws that reflect Fijian social realities.
These reform initiatives signal a hopeful direction for policing in Fiji. By embracing community involvement and transparency, authorities aim to foster a more responsive, accountable police force, ultimately enhancing public safety and trust in law enforcement. The commitment to reform, alongside active community engagement, offers the promise of a safer environment that aligns with contemporary human rights practices, paving the way for a more effective police service for all citizens.