A National Border Coordinating Committee (NBCC), a new body tasked with advising and supporting the government on all matters related to border security management held its first meeting on Tuesday, 27th May. 

Its part of Solomon Islands Government initiative through the Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Services (MPNSCS).

Speaking during its first deliberation, Permanent Secretary of MPNSCS Karen Galokale said this strategic initiative aims to enhance the capacity of Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) and stakeholders to effectively manage, plan, and make decisions regarding the nation’s border operations, including maritime borders, seaports, and airports.

She said the NBCC is a cornerstone of the government’s systematic approach to border management and is responsible for implementing the National Border Strategy (NBS), which aligns with the broader National Security Strategy (NSS) and other key government policies. 

“The Committee’s establishment is a direct response to the need for greater collaboration and information-sharing among agencies, moving away from the previous siloed approach that hindered effective border management.”

Key Functions and Objectives

• Coordinated Border Management: The NBCC will oversee and monitor the implementation of border policies and strategies, ensuring a whole-of-government approach that involves collaboration with key security agencies. 
• Stakeholder Engagement: The Committee will work closely with provincial governments, community leaders, and religious figures to ensure that border management policies are inclusive and consider traditional, social, and economic factors.
• Capacity Building: The NBCC will organize formal training and capacity development programs for LEAs, assess national institutions for border agency training, and coordinate training opportunities in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade.
• Policy Review and Improvement: Regular reviews of existing border agreements will be conducted, with recommendations for improvements and site assessments along national borders.
• Information Sharing: The NBCC will facilitate intelligence networking and the sharing of information among stakeholders to strengthen security at all entry and exit points.

It was highlighted that the NBCC will pay particular attention to the country’s two international airports, two international seaports, and key maritime provinces such as Choiseul, Western, Malaita, and Temotu.

These areas are vital for managing the clearance of international vessels and monitoring dynamic maritime borders, especially those shared with Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu.

The Committee will be regulated and monitored by the MPNSCS and will include senior representatives from key government ministries and agencies, such as the Prime Minister’s Office, Attorney General’s Office, Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and others. 

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Police and National Security will serve as Chair, with the Deputy Chair rotating among LEA members.

The NBCC Secretariat will be based in the National Security Division of MPNSCS, providing administrative support and coordination. 

Committee meetings will be held monthly, focusing on ongoing operations, information sharing, and progress updates.

-MPNSCS Press