The government, through its Ministry of Police, launched consultations yesterday for its inaugural National Security Policy (NSP), aiming to strengthen national resilience and sovereignty.
The framework seeks a whole‑of‑government strategy to identify threats and reinforce links between security and development. The effort aligns with a concurrent review of the Tonga Strategic Development Framework II, with mutual reinforcement expected between the NSP and upcoming TSDF III.
Police Minister Paula Piukala highlighted challenges including rising crime, youth population pressures and shifting social structures amid global volatility. The NSP will map out national priorities to meet threats from environmental degradation, cyber‑crime, climate change and economic fragility.
Prime Minister Hon Dr ʻAisake Eke emphasised that “our national security must be built not only on borders and response plans, but on the foundations of our people’s well‑being,” affirming the integration of development and accountability in security planning.
Foreign and Defence Minister Crown Prince Tupoutoʻa ʻUlukalala said, “the Tongan people have demonstrated resilience through collaboration at various levels, embodying the effectiveness and efficiency of the Tongan Way.”
Government consultations run this week, followed by community and interest‑group sessions from 30 June. The public schedule will be released shortly.
