HYBRID threats are intertwined with natural disasters, demanding integrated security and disaster response strategies.
Fiji’s Minister for Defence and Veterans Affairs, Pio Tikoduadua, highlighted the rising challenge of hybrid threats exploiting natural disasters as a core security risk.
“Natural disasters like cyclones and floods are no longer abstract risks but realities shaping Pacific economies and infrastructure,’’ he said.
“Hostile actors exploit disaster response vulnerabilities, including information manipulation and threats to maritime infrastructure.
“During disasters, key systems weaken, information networks degrade, law enforcement shifts focus, and maritime surveillance drops, and this creates openings for transnational crime and disinformation, making hybrid threats a current operational reality for Fiji and the Pacific.”
He emphasised the need to expand resilience beyond infrastructure to government and information systems continuity.
“Resilience must protect government functions, data integrity, supply chains, and maritime assets during crises,” Tikoduadua said.
“Fiji’s National Security Strategy now includes hybrid threats and stresses cross-government coordination and societal engagement, and investments to focus on maritime domain awareness and establishing crisis command coordination through initiatives like the Maritime Mission.
“Integrating intelligence and disaster response functions aims to improve real-time coordination between patrols and disaster authorities.”
The ESIWA+ project workshop was positioned as a critical forum for collaboration between Pacific and European experts on hybrid threats.
Tikoduadua stated It connects policymakers, analysts, and practitioners to examine climate change, disinformation, transnational crime, and maritime infrastructure protection.
“The goal is to move beyond discussion to produce practical outcomes like information sharing and coordinated surveillance,’’ he said.
“Fiji views this cooperation as essential for addressing the complex security environment shaped by hybrid threats and climate challenges.”
Fiji reaffirmed its active role in regional security and partnership, stressing solutions rooted in Pacific realities.
“The regional security architecture depends on cooperation, trust, and shared responsibility,” Tikoduadua said.
“Fiji insists on being an active contributor, not a passive recipient, highlighting its peacekeeping and regional cooperation record, and the workshop aims to deepen practical and measurable contributions through policies, protocols, and partnerships formed here.”
