Participants of the two-day retreat consultation on the proposed National Security Bill Policy.
Government Holds Consultation Retreat on National Security Bill Policy
The Ministry of Police, National Security, and Correctional Services last week held a two-day retreat consultation on the proposed National Security Bill Policy, bringing together key stakeholders to deliberate on strengthening the country’s national security framework.
Opening the retreat, Deputy Secretary for National Security, Anthony Kivolyn, welcomed participants on behalf of the Permanent Secretary and the Minister for Police, National Security and Correctional Services. He thanked stakeholders for their positive response and commitment to participating in the important consultation process.
Mr. Kivolyn emphasized that the consultation reflects the Government’s commitment to the principles outlined in the National Security Strategy, which promotes a whole-of-nation approach to addressing national threats and vulnerabilities.
He highlighted that national security extends beyond traditional security concerns and includes human security, economic resilience, and environmental sustainability.
“The proposed National Security Bill Policy aims to strengthen our national capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to security threats while promoting stability, development, and the rule of law,” Mr. Kivolyn said.
The proposed policy also outlines a national security structure consisting of several committees that will deliberate on national security matters. The proposed Bill seeks to provide the necessary legal backing for these structures.
Participants were encouraged to engage openly and constructively throughout the retreat to ensure the policy framework is practical, actionable, and suited to the Solomon Islands context.
Mr. Kivolyn noted that stakeholder input would play a critical role in ensuring the policy effectively addresses both current and emerging security challenges while balancing national security interests with the rights and interests of citizens.
The retreat is focused on three key objectives:
- Considering the key elements of the proposed National Security Bill;
- Sharing findings from the 2025 study tour to Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea; and
- Reviewing and revising the National Security Bill Policy Paper.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to build a safer and more secure Solomon Islands.
-MPNSCS Press
Deputy Secretary for National Security, Anthony Kivolyn.
National Manager/Border Operation Solomon Islands Customs Division of the Ministry of Finance & Treasury, Minnie Vaike and Steneth Kaniki, Chief Legal Officer of the Ministry of Forestry & Research.
Sitting from right is the Deputy Secretary for National Security, Anthony Kivolyn.
Group 1 presents their discussion.
Group 2 engages in meaningful group discussion.
The Deputy Director/Chief Immigration Officer, Arnorld Horesi made remarks during the group discussion.