The Fiji Government says protections for informers and witnesses, modern evidence-handling systems and the urgent expansion of safe, regulated rehabilitation services will be central to a new legal framework being developed to address the country’s growing drug problem.
In a statement, the Ministry of Policing and Communications confirmed it has begun work on legislation that would establish a Counter Narcotics Bureau as a standalone and independent agency to coordinate national efforts to prevent, disrupt and respond to illicit drug activity.
The Ministry said it has completed a first phase of targeted consultations with stakeholders from the justice sector, law enforcement, human rights institutions, social services, health and education sectors, as well as community-based organisations.
“These discussions have helped identify the scale and complexity of the drug challenge in Fiji, highlighted gaps in the current legal and institutional framework, and generated practical proposals on enforcement, prevention, rehabilitation, governance and oversight,” the statement said.
Stakeholders stressed the need for a balanced and comprehensive approach, strengthening intelligence-led investigations against organised criminal networks while expanding prevention, diversion and rehabilitation pathways.
“The consultations emphasised the importance of protections for informers and witnesses, modern evidence-handling processes, and the urgent need to expand access to safe, regulated rehabilitation services throughout the country,” the Ministry said.
Issues raised also included the proposed design and accountability of the Counter Narcotics Bureau, coordination across agencies, and ensuring strong governance and oversight mechanisms.
The Ministry said a discussion paper and draft working document will be released to the public later this week.
“These documents are intended to support informed public discussion rather than present a finalised position,” the statement said.
Nationwide consultations will follow in February, with sessions planned across Fiji to allow communities, organisations and individuals to contribute directly to shaping the proposed law. Both in-person consultations and written submissions will be available to ensure inclusive participation.
