A new amendment to Vanuatu’s national security law will prevent partner countries from using the nation’s key infrastructure during times of war or major conflict.

The government says the change aims to stop powerful nations from taking advantage of infrastructure they fund in small island countries, using them as strategic checkpoints during global tensions.

Presenting the National Security Amendment Act No. 2025 in Parliament, Prime Minister Jotham Napat said the amendment ensures that all critical infrastructure ,including wharves, airports and data centres ,must remain fully owned and controlled by the State.

“We will look at areas of critical infrastructure which are very important to us,” Prime Minister Napat said. “If a war breaks out, these infrastructures play a critical role. This amendment makes sure they are owned by the State. We will not allow any outside influence to control these critical infrastructures. The government will have the last say on wharves, airports, data centres and others.”

The amendment also creates a new security committee that will scrutinise any proposed security partnership or agreement between Vanuatu and other countries.

“This committee will review all government engagements relating to security,” the Prime Minister explained. “Its role is to examine any bilateral security agreements before the country enters into them.”

Members on both sides of Parliament supported the bill, highlighting its importance at a time when major world powers are forming new security pacts across the region.