Fiji

The Definition of Terrorism in Domestic Law

Fiji defines terrorism but not a terrorist act in its national law, although the latter is expressly prohibited. Terrorism is defined in the 1969 Public Order Act (as amended in 2012) as predicate acts that are committed for a political, religious or ideological purpose and intended to intimidate the public or compel Government conduct.S. 2, Fiji 1969 Public Order Act.

Adherence to Global and Regional Terrorism Treaties

Fiji is a State Party to all of the main United Nations treaties on terrorism.

Fiji hosts the Secretariat of the Pacific Islands Forum, but the Forum has yet to elaborate a regional treaty on terrorism. The 2002 Pacific Islands Forum Nasonini Declaration on Regional Security called on leaders from the region to introduce legislation and national strategies to address transnational threats, including terrorism.

Laws and Penalties for Terrorist Offences

Under Fiji's 1969 Public Order Act, a terrorist act is punishable with life imprisonment.S. 12(A), 1969 Public Order Act.The same penalty is prescribed for a person who harbours a member of a terrorist group.S. 12(B), 1969 Public Order Act.

Under Section 98 of the Penal Code, "Any person who goes armed in public without lawful occasion in such a manner as to cause terror to any person is guilty of a misdemeanour, and his arms may be forfeited." 

Counterterrorism Capacities and Policies at Domestic Level

Fiji's Police Force does not have a dedicated counterterrorism unit.