Fiji Roundup: Backlash over Israel Embassy opening, AI in security woes, climate-resilient infrastructure

PM defends opening of Israel Embassy amid outcry

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has defended his government’s decision to open a Fiji Embassy in Israel, saying it was a state decision rooted in longstanding ties, not a move by any single coalition party. Rabuka recalled that Israel supported Fiji when “traditional defence partners withdrew” and has consistently backed its peacekeeping operations. The decision has drawn sharp criticism. Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry questioned the timing, noting that “much of the free world is distancing itself from Israel” over Gaza. The NGO Coalition on Human Rights condemned the move as “shameful,” citing more than 65,000 deaths in Gaza and accusing Fiji of betraying its human rights principles and its own “Ocean of Peace” vision.

Official bats for recognition of sign language as a human right

Fiji has renewed calls for stronger recognition of sign language as a fundamental right. Speaking on the International Day of Sign Language, Women, Children and Social Protection Minister Sashi Kiran said, “No human rights are complete without sign language rights.” She said the government supports its recognition as an official language and pointed to the Cabinet-approved Disability Policy as a framework to advance inclusion across education, health and public life. She noted progress, from interpreters on national television and in parliament to new advocacy groups, but said barriers persist. Kiran also praised the work of the Fiji Association of the Deaf and others, stressing sign language is not only communication but “a rich expression of identity and culture.” 

Fiji leader raises health crises to UN 

Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has urged global action on non-communicable diseases and mental health, calling them “global threats that demand urgent action.” Addressing world leaders in New York, he said NCDs account for more than 80% of deaths in Fiji, while mental health — especially among youth — remains neglected. Rabuka outlined Fiji’s response, from new legislation and school health programmes to expanded mental health services, but noted stigma, underfunding and scarce resources hamper progress. Rabuka appealed for targeted international funding, arguing that small nations cannot confront these crises alone.

Climate-resilient water systems set for $385M boost

Fiji has signed a $385 million agreement with the Asian Development Bank to modernise its water and wastewater systems, in what officials describe as a benchmark for climate-resilient infrastructure. Acting Prime Minister and Finance Minister Biman Prasad said the project aligns with the National Development Plan 2025-2029 and the Water Sector Strategy 2050, both of which prioritise adaptation, ocean health and reliable services. ADB regional director Aaron Batten said the project will also establish a Pacific Regional Water Operators Training Programme, positioning Fiji as a hub to address skills gaps across the region’s water sector.

PM urges UN Security Council to act before AI risks escalate

Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has urged the United Nations Security Council to create a global framework to govern artificial intelligence in peace and security, warning that inaction could expose the world to instability. Speaking in New York, Rabuka said AI could enhance conflict prevention, cyber defence and humanitarian aid but stressed, “Peace is not achieved by technology but by people through trust, justice, and political will.” He called for an intergovernmental process to design safeguards, citing the Pacific’s Ocean of Peace Declaration, where leaders pledged to protect sovereignty and reject military interference.