Port VILA, 17th November, 2025 – Recent amendments to the National Security Act of 2025 may have sparked some confusion among the public and media, prompting the Office of the Prime Minister to issue this statement to clarify the rationale of the amendments.
Firstly, the amendments aim to strengthen Vanuatu's sovereignty and neutrality amidst growing geopolitical interest in the Pacific.
The changes now require foreign advisers working in the national security space to be stationed at neutral venues or their respective embassies and obtain ministerial authorization before accessing government premises to undertake any security assignments.
Prime Minister Jotham Napat emphasized that this move is necessary to protect Vanuatu's sovereignty and ensure independent decision-making, avoiding entanglement in partner countries' geopolitical rivalries.
"We value all our partners. We know that amidst the current climate of heightened interest in the region, more and more Vanuatu continues to attract attention. Parliament has acted simply to protect our own shores," Prime Minister Napat said.
"We are a peaceful country and we wish to maintain that status as far as possible because our existence depends on it,” he said.
The amendments do not concern advisers working in other government offices, but they ensure bilateral and multilateral security arrangements are thoroughly vetted and approved by the Government.
Additionally, the amendments provide guidance on scientific research, outlining proper processes for approval.
The national parliament also passed amendments ensuring critical infrastructure isn't used for military purposes, countering narratives that public infrastructures are being built for such purposes.
Critical infrastructure includes essential systems, assets, and networks vital for Vanuatu's public safety, security, and health, such as communications, energy, water and sanitation, transport, banking and finance, and health services.
These amendments reflect Vanuatu's commitment to maintaining its non-aligned status and protect its sovereignty in the face of growing regional interest.