Employment Minister Calls for Stronger Labour Partnerships at ILO Conference

The Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Agni Deo Singh, has reaffirmed Fiji's commitment to decent work, social justice and tripartite cooperation while addressing delegates at the 114th Session of the International Labour Organization International Labour Conference in Geneva.

Speaking before government, employer and worker representatives from around the world, Minister Singh also delivered a statement on behalf of Pacific Labour Ministers, highlighting regional efforts to strengthen labour governance and build more resilient labour markets.

The Minister said Fiji's approach to development is built on cooperation between government, employers and workers, describing tripartism as the foundation of the country's labour governance system.

He highlighted ongoing labour reforms, including the Employment Relations Reform Bill, which is currently before Parliament following extensive consultations with workers' and employers' organisations. The reforms are aimed at strengthening workers' rights while supporting investment, productivity and economic growth.

Minister Singh also pointed to the Government's decision to increase the national minimum wage by 25 per cent, saying the move provided greater support for working families while recognising the value of work.

At the regional level, he highlighted Fiji's hosting of the inaugural Pacific Tripartite Labour Ministers and Senior Labour Officials Meeting in May, which produced several key outcomes, including plans for a Pacific Labour Governance Charter and a Pacific Just Work Action Plan for 2026–2030.

Addressing climate change, Minister Singh said Pacific Small Island Developing States were facing growing labour market challenges as climate impacts increasingly affected livelihoods, productivity and employment security.

He called for stronger international partnerships to support climate-resilient labour markets, skills development and a just transition for workers and communities across the Pacific.

Minister Singh concluded by reaffirming Fiji's commitment to working with the ILO, employers and workers to advance practical solutions that promote decent work, resilient labour markets and inclusive development throughout the region.

Duavata News (Fiji) PTE LIMITED © 2024

☏ 3317438

📧 editor@duavata.news