Fiji is advocating for enhanced global support for Small Island Developing States in the area of cybersecurity, making a significant call during the Singapore International Cyber Week. Tupou’tuah Baravilala, Director-General for Digital Government Transformation, stressed the importance of giving small nations a stronger voice in international cyber forums, including the United Nations. She expressed concern that without inclusion and representation, these smaller states remain exposed to various cyber threats and coercion.
Baravilala outlined Fiji’s National Digital Strategy for 2025–2030, which aims to establish a secure and digitally empowered society. This strategy emphasizes regional unity, supported by initiatives such as the Lagatoi and Ocean of Peace Declarations. Furthermore, she engaged in discussions with cybersecurity representatives from Australia and Israel to bolster cooperation and enhance regional resilience against digital threats.
This focus on cybersecurity aligns with previous remarks by Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica, who highlighted the growing threats of cybercrime as the country advances toward a digital economy. During the CyberSec Symposium in Suva, he underscored the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures and announced the impending launch of Fiji’s National Cybersecurity Strategy aimed at safeguarding critical infrastructure and data.
Fiji’s proactive measures to build out its cybersecurity landscape, including the establishment of a Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) and participation in international agreements like the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime, reflect a strong commitment to counter rising cyber threats and enhance the nation’s defenses. These efforts are not limited to protecting Fiji, but serve to inspire collaborative strategies among Pacific nations tackling similar challenges in cybersecurity.
The partnership with key allies and the implementation of comprehensive cybersecurity frameworks position Fiji as a regional leader poised to foster a safer digital environment across the Pacific. Through these initiatives, Fiji is paving the way for a secure digital future, demonstrating a hopeful outlook that promises increased regional stability and cooperation in the fight against cyber threats.