Fiji’s draft Police Act proposes stricter recruitment standards for new officers, including requirements for DNA samples, psychological evaluations, and biometric data collection. The bill, now under public review, would modernize vetting procedures for the Fiji Police Force for the first time since the 1965 Act was adopted.
Proposed Recruitment Standards
Under the draft, applicants may be required to provide a “body sample suitable for obtaining a DNA profile,” complete psychological assessments, and submit biometric identifiers. Clause 21 of the working document authorizes the Commissioner of Police to collect fingerprints and “other biometric data the Commissioner thinks appropriate,” which could include facial imaging. The measures are intended to identify unsuitable candidates and prevent individuals with criminal records or unfit psychological profiles from joining the service.
The draft legislation reflects a broader move by law enforcement agencies worldwide toward biometric and scientific verification methods. Similar measures have been piloted in other countries, although Fiji’s proposal extends beyond basic background checks to include DNA profiling as part of standard recruitment.
Safeguards and Public Consultation
The working paper outlines protections for sensitive data. DNA samples must be destroyed once a profile has been derived, unless a match links the applicant to a criminal investigation. If a candidate is not recruited, their biometric information must be deleted, with written notice provided to the individual. These provisions aim to balance enhanced vetting with privacy protections.
The proposed bill is part of a national review of the Police Act, led by the Ministry of Policing and the Solicitor General’s office. Public submissions are being collected as part of the consultation process, giving civil society and citizens an opportunity to weigh in on the potential impact of mandatory biometric and DNA collection.
Source: The Fiji Times
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By the ID Tech Editorial Team
