UN agencies in Fiji partner to streamline border and Immigration services

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Fiji has partnered with United Nations (UN) agencies in Fiji to lead a two-day workshop aimed at streamlining visa processes and enhancing immigration procedures.   This collaborative effort seeks to strengthen Fiji’s border management and immigration services by ensuring efficient and effective system and processes. service delivery for both citizens and foreign nationals.

 
Held in Nadi from 17-18 October 2024, the workshop brings together key border agencies with relevant government officials, alongside representatives of UN agencies based in Fiji. The goal of the workshop is to resolve challenges in the current visa framework and explore solutions that will improve operational efficiency in visa processing and immigration services.

 
As the coordinating agencies of this initiative, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Pacific Office in Fiji and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) are working closely with relevant government and related agencies to foster a common understanding of current rules and regulations pertaining to visas, exemptions and applications under relevant Fiji Laws.

 
Additionally, the workshop also focuses on streamlining decision-making processes within the border management system across agencies. Through standardized procedures, leveraging technology and inter-agency cooperation, the initiative aims to improve the integrity of the visa system, reduce visa processing times and enhance overall accessibility of immigration services.

 
In opening the workshop and speaking on behalf of the UN agencies, UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji Resident Representative, Munkhtuya Altangerel acknowledged the positive attitude and support of Government agencies thus signaling fruitful outcomes.

 
“We have a common vision to serve and help Fiji achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and ensure that we are following and respecting the procedures and guidelines of our host nation. We look forward to a continued partnership, mutual support and respect to achieve desired results for the people of Fiji and the Pacific region.”

 
Director of Immigration, Amelia Komaisavai, encouraged participants to embrace the spirit of teamwork and cooperation. “Let us work together across all agencies to build a more optimistic future for our nation’s security and where the essence of immigration service is valued.”

 
 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) acknowledges the vital support provided by the UN agencies towards this initiative – which is seen as a key step to streamlining border and immigration services. These are in line with the Sovereignty and Security pillars of foreign policy as set out in the recently launched Foreign Policy White Paper. Together these series of combined efforts aim to advance Fiji’s global engagements and economic development under the Prosperity pillar. This kind of partnership with UN agencies and development partners is central to the collaborative character of our approach.

 
MFA plays a pivotal role in coordinating inter-agency efforts across the Government system, setting strategic priorities, mobilising teamwork and implementing policy reforms to streamline procedures and improve decision-making processes.

 
The Ministry is grateful for the collaboration and support provided by UNDP and IOM through technical expertise, resources, and guidance that facilitate the sharing of best practices and innovative solutions.

 
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