Fiji Country Report
Fiji is an archipelago located in the South Pacific Ocean, known for its lush landscapes, beautiful beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. Comprising over 300 islands, it’s a popular tourist destination with a rich cultural heritage, drawing from Melanesian, Polynesian, and Indo-Fijian influences. Suva, on the island of Viti Levu, serves as its capital and largest city. Fiji operates as a parliamentary republic, with a history marked by several coups since its independence from British colonial rule in 1970. The economy is driven by tourism, sugar exports, and remittances from Fijians working abroad. Despite its picturesque environment, Fiji faces challenges such as vulnerability to climate change impacts, including rising sea levels and cyclones, and political instability. Nonetheless, Fiji plays a significant role in Pacific regional affairs and is known for its efforts to address environmental issues and promote sustainable development.
Last updated: April 8, 2022
Security
Conflicts, terrorism, and insurgencies are not significant threats to foreigners in Fiji. The level of criminal activity in the country is generally low, although incidents of assault and robbery do occur, and petty theft is relatively common.Â
Fiji faces security risks primarily from natural disasters and the impacts of climate change, including cyclones, floods, and rising sea levels, which threaten infrastructure, agriculture, and water resources. Additionally, political instability has been a concern in the past, with a history of coups creating periods of uncertainty. However, recent years have seen efforts towards more stable governance. Economic challenges persist, with dependence on tourism making the economy vulnerable to global fluctuations. Fiji’s strategic location in the Pacific also involves it in regional security dynamics, particularly concerning maritime security and the influence of external powers. Efforts to mitigate these risks include improving disaster preparedness, strengthening democratic institutions, and diversifying the economy.
Last updated: April 22, 2022
Infrastructure
Fiji has a diverse infrastructure, with well-developed tourist facilities and improving telecommunications, particularly in urban areas. The country boasts a network of roads, significant ports, and Nadi International Airport as a key travel hub. However, challenges remain in rural and remote access, and efforts continue to enhance water and sanitation services across its islands.
Telecommunications infrastructure in Fiji is relatively advanced for the Pacific region, with a good network of mobile and internet services, especially in urban and tourist areas. However, access can be limited in more remote areas.
Fiji’s international connectivity is served by Nadi International Airport, which is a hub for travel to and from the Pacific Islands. The country also has several domestic airports and airstrips, supporting internal connectivity.
Last updated: April 22, 2022
Environment
Fiji’s environment is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including pristine beaches, coral reefs, and lush tropical forests. This rich biodiversity is home to a variety of marine and terrestrial species, some of which are endemic to the region. However, Fiji faces environmental challenges, notably climate change impacts such as rising sea levels, increasing temperatures, and more frequent and severe tropical cyclones. These changes threaten Fiji’s ecosystems, coastal communities, and infrastructure. Environmental degradation, including deforestation, overfishing, and pollution, also poses risks to Fiji’s biodiversity and the livelihoods of its people. In response, Fiji has been proactive in environmental conservation efforts, implementing initiatives to protect its natural resources, promote sustainable development, and mitigate climate change impacts through national strategies and international collaboration.
Last updated: March 11, 2022
Health and Medical
Fiji’s healthcare system faces challenges in ensuring equitable access across its islands, with a focus on combating non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes and hypertension, alongside infectious diseases. Healthcare facilities vary, with more advanced services concentrated in urban areas. Efforts are ongoing to improve healthcare access and quality, promote healthy lifestyles, and enhance disease prevention and management, supported by international partnerships.
Last updated: March 30, 2022
Political
Fiji is a parliamentary representative democratic republic with a history of political instability, including several coups. Recent reforms have aimed to strengthen democratic governance, but challenges persist. Political parties reflect ethnic and social divides, shaping Fiji’s political landscape.
Last updated: March 25, 2022
