A wide range of issues arose in consultations during the development of the Strategy. Including for example strong policing and law and order; climate change and natural disasters; border management and transnational crime; protection of our EEZ; cyber security; critical infrastructure; our external engagement and regional and global developments that might impact on Vanuatu; economic issues including debt levels, foreign investment, and tourism; land and customary issues; the banking system; background checks on a select range of foreign individuals seeking to obtain Vanuatu citizenship or otherwise engage with Vanuatu; and human security issues such as gender-based violence, health security and youth unemployment. The Strategy also addresses the attributes and capabilities Vanuatu needs as a nation to safeguard national security, ranging for example from strong and effective institutions; to a resilient and well-managed economy; to stable government, good governance, transparency and accountability. Finally, while some trends in Vanuatu’s future security environment can be anticipated, inevitably there are many that cannot. It is vital that the Strategy remain under regular review, to be updated as circumstances and perceived risks change, and that the nation’s security institutions retain the flexibility and resources needed to respond quickly to new challenges as they arise. I look forward to playing my part, along with all others involved, in ensuring the successful implementation of this Strategy. Hon Andrew Solomon Napuat Minister of Internal Affairs 7