Fiji Country Report

Situated in the South Pacific, Fiji has grappled with recurring coups and corresponding political fluctuations in recent decades. However, the nation successfully transitioned back to democracy in 2014, driven by a series of reforms initiated after the 2006 coup led by Commodore Frank Bainimarama. Since then, Fiji has largely maintained political stability. Nonetheless, the opposition occasionally raises concerns about various government measures aimed at curbing dissent.

Fiji generally offers a safe environment for foreign travelers, but isolated incidents of theft and assaults have been reported. Basic precautions are advisable. Businesses operating in Fiji may encounter challenges related to corruption and areas where the rule of law could be improved.

Due to its location in the Pacific Ring of Fire, Fiji is susceptible to storms and earthquakes year-round. Limited resources can hinder the full implementation of disaster preparedness and recovery programs, which may impact the country's resilience to natural disasters.

Protests in Fiji are infrequent, mostly occurring in urban areas near government offices and main thoroughfares, often in response to various issues. Labor strikes are rarer, impacting industries such as tourism and sugar. Ethnic tensions persist but are unlikely to lead to major violence; the military may intervene during heightened tensions.

Crime primarily involves petty theft in urban and tourist areas, with occasional burglaries and home invasions, especially near low-income settlements. While violence is rare, it can occur, especially at night near nightlife spots. Sexual assaults have been reported in western tourist areas. Fiji's isolated location makes it a hub for organized crime, particularly narcotics and weapons smuggling.

Terrorism risks are low, with no known terrorist groups in Fiji. However, the discovery of ammunition in 2017 raised concerns. Security services are generally sufficient, with tourist police for foreign nationals. While piracy isn't a significant concern, organized crime's presence may impact maritime security. Corruption and human rights issues persist, potentially affecting interactions with law enforcement. In such cases, foreign nationals should consider involving their diplomatic missions alongside local authorities. The risk of armed conflict involving Fiji is low, and inter-state conflict isn't a specific concern.

Fiji's transportation infrastructure includes a well-maintained road network in most urban areas, though road safety remains a concern. Public buses are widely available, but rail services are limited. Taxis and ride-sharing options exist with low risks of unauthorized services. Cybercrime in Fiji is relatively low, and the government has passed the Cybercrime Act to address these concerns. Fiji's power supply relies on renewables but is susceptible to fluctuations, and mobile network coverage is generally good in urban areas, though less reliable in rural regions. Internet services are widely accessible, and water availability is generally good but can be limited during dry seasons.

Fiji has a tropical maritime climate. It does not have a fixed wet period, although downpours occur most frequently over the larger islands during the cyclone season between November and April. The country experiences more frequent severe weather during the cyclone season but storms can occur at any time of year. Cyclones can have a devastating impact on the islands, bringing a risk of flooding, landslides and significant disruption to local infrastructure.

Due to its position in the Pacific Ring of Fire, Fiji is also susceptible to earthquakes and experiences frequent tremors of moderate to high magnitude. Significant offshore earthquakes in the region can also bring a risk of tsunamis.

Mosquito-borne diseases are a concern in Fiji, and the country has experienced periodic outbreaks of dengue, including strains with a risk of hemorrhagic fever. Vaccines before travel are also required, for example, for yellow fever. Health facilities in the country are limited but are generally adequate for routine medical treatment. However, facilities in rural areas may experience shortages of drugs and medical supplies and provide only basic services. Tap water is not considered safe for drinking unless otherwise directed.

Fiji has largely returned to relative political stability following the holding of elections in 2014 which ended eight years of military rule. However, issues of corruption continue to plague the government and rule of law remains weak. The country has implemented several measures to promote transparency and clean governance but corruption remains widespread in the public sector.