Fiji Reaffirms Commitment to Fair Labour Practices at Global Labour Conference

The Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Honourable Agni Deo Singh, delivered Fiji’s national statement at the 113th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva, Switzerland, on Tuesday, 10 June 2025, at 12:45 a.m. Fiji time.

In his address to the ILC Plenary, Minister Singh reaffirmed the Fijian Government’s strong commitment to promoting decent work and social justice for all Fijians, underscoring the importance of a fair and inclusive labour system.

“Economic growth and social unity depend on protecting workers’ rights and fostering good relationships between employers and workers,” Minister Singh said.

He highlighted that over the past two years, Fiji has made major progress in reforming its labour laws. A comprehensive review of the Employment Relations Act 2007 has been completed, which he described as a product of genuine dialogue rather than a mere administrative task.

The review, guided by tripartite consultation and inclusive stakeholder engagement, aligns with key principles of the International Labour Organization (ILO). The proposed legislative changes are described as legally sound, socially acceptable, and reflective of a shared commitment to the future of work in Fiji.

The revised Bill is currently being examined by the Office of the Solicitor General to ensure legal integrity and international compliance. It is expected to be presented to Parliament in August 2025.

The updated legislation aims to strengthen worker protections, ensure fair employment practices, improve mechanisms for resolving disputes, and foster healthier workplace environments.

Minister Singh also reported on ongoing reforms to Fiji’s Work Care legislation, which will ensure timely compensation for workers injured or deceased in the course of employment, while also extending coverage to school children injured at school. These reforms have also followed a careful process of tripartite consultation and refinement.

He further emphasized Fiji’s ongoing commitment to collaboration on labour matters, noting regular consultations with partners and the reactivation of the Tripartite Wages Councils. Fiji has also raised the national minimum wage by 25 percent.

“We appreciate the ongoing support from the ILO, which has been vital in guiding our reforms to meet international labour standards,” he said.

The Minister also highlighted a landmark resolution by the People’s Coalition Government in September 2024, which brought closure to the world’s longest industrial dispute—the Vatukoula Gold Mine strike. The 33-year-long dispute was settled with a $9.2 million compensation package for 368 affected workers and their families.

“Through dialogue and our commitment to social justice, we reached a resolution that shows even the most complex labour disputes can be resolved through genuine dialogue,” said Minister Singh.

He concluded by thanking the ILO for its continuous technical support and reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to advancing inclusive and sustainable labour reforms in line with global standards.