Pacific Islands Forum Leaders have issued a blunt warning that illegal drugs are becoming a major threat to the region’s security, health, and social stability.
In their communique, Leaders expressed alarm at the Pacific being used both as a transit route and a market for synthetic drugs, particularly methamphetamines.
“Leaders expressed strong concerns on increased transnational crimes and that the region is being used as both a transit route across multiple pathways and a market for synthetic drugs such as methamphetamines.
“Leaders discussed the rising cases of illegal drugs, addiction, mental health challenges, and noted that violent crimes are placing increasing strain on societal and health systems.
Leaders cautioned that if left unaddressed this issue would undermine the wellbeing of Pacific youth, erode family and community structures, and deepen vulnerabilities across our Blue Pacific,” the communique stated.
Leaders agreed that the growing crisis needs a coordinated regional response and directed that it be taken up in the review of the Boe Action Plan and related security work programmes.
“Leaders called for a coordinated regional response on this issue for consideration within the review of the Boe Action Plan, and related regional security work programmes,” the communique said.
In Fiji, police seized over 4 tonnes of methamphetamine during a raid in Nadi in January 2024. Seven people were later found guilty in connection with the bust last month.
The discussions came against the backdrop of a fast-changing security environment.
Leaders noted that global conflicts, shifting alliances, and strategic competition are reshaping the region, with Pacific economies already feeling the impact of disruptions in energy markets triggered by escalations in the Middle East.
“Leaders discussed the region’s evolving security environment, noting that it is increasingly shaped by global conflicts, shifting alliances, and intensifying strategic competition.
Leaders further noted that the escalations in the Middle East have disrupted global energy markets, driving volatility that continues to impact Pacific economies,” the communique added.
The Forum’s call signals growing urgency to address the drug trade and its impact on Pacific societies before it becomes a crisis beyond control.
