As we commemorate World Maritime Day and look to this year’s theme of ‘Navigating the future: safety first!’ we must recognize not only the unique challenges and responsibilities that come with our vast oceanic domain but also the rich maritime heritage that has shaped Fiji’s identity for millennia.  

The ocean is the lifeblood of Fiji – both culturally and scientifically. The data shows that our Blue Pacific is not simply a point on a map, the region’s people live within the ocean, embodying a culture that is expansive and interconnected.

In Fiji alone, the country's Exclusive Economic Zone is 70 percent larger than its landmass and is ranked as the 26th largest sovereign ocean space in the world. Home to 3.5 percent of the world’s coral reefs and over 65,000 hectares of mangroves, Fiji’s rich marine biodiversity is a testament to the ocean's crucial role. When we talk about the 'environment' of the Pacific, safeguarding our ocean space is just as vital as the conservation work undertaken on land.

To fully appreciate Fiji's maritime present and future, we must first understand its rich nautical past. To cast back to the time of pre-Western contact in our Pacific Island Countries, history shows us that trade and exchange was valued far beyond local communities. Pacific Islands people travelled across the vast ocean space of our Blue Continent to trade goods and, perhaps more importantly, to exchange social capital. 

Balancing Tradition with Modern Challenges

Building on this historical foundation, Fiji is now facing modern maritime challenges which require innovative solutions. Our focus has shifted to building a resilient Blue Pacific – a region that fosters peace and harmony, that promotes social inclusion, security and prosperity. In doing so, we must balance the Pacific’s rich maritime heritage with the pressing need for safe and secure borders in the modern world.

In partnership with the Government of the United Kingdom, the UN Development Programme (UNDP) is working with the Government of Fiji’s key maritime security institutions to strengthen the country’s maritime security from remote-island communities through to the corridors of parliament where legislation is made.

As we support the advancement of Fiji’s maritime security efforts, we must also recognize the invaluable role that the country’s Maritime Security Committee plays in shaping and refining strategic policies to strengthen maritime governance. Through fostering stronger partnerships with key maritime actors, the committee contains a wealth of knowledge and experience that can inform the development and implementation of key maritime policy instruments that will improve coordination for safety and security responses in Fiji.

Advancing Maritime Safety in Coastal Communities

At the heart of Fiji's maritime security efforts lies community involvement, exemplified by recent initiatives in Kadavu. Just this month, the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji has certified 172 seafarers, including 18 women, with Boat Masters Licenses, emphasizing the importance of mastering basic maritime safety principles. While these fundamentals may seem simple, they are critical for safe vessel operation and form the foundation for advanced navigation skills. This approach also allows for the integration of traditional Fijian navigation techniques with modern maritime security measures, creating a comprehensive safety culture in coastal communities.