Fiji Shares Significant Progress On Labour Reforms With The ILO

Fiji’s Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Honourable Agni Deo Singh, held a productive meeting with the Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO), Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo.

During the meeting, Minister Singh outlined the significant progress Fiji has made in its labour reforms and the ongoing review of the Employment Relations Act 2007. He reaffirmed Fiji’s strong commitment to fostering a fair and efficient labour market, with active collaboration from government, workers’ representatives, and employer groups.

Several initiatives were discussed, including measures to strengthen workers’ rights, enhance working conditions, and promote open and effective social dialogue among all stakeholders.

A key focus of the meeting was the review of the Employment Relations Act, which aims to align Fiji’s labour laws with international standards, improve employment practices, and support sustainable economic growth. Minister Singh emphasized that the revised laws would reflect the evolving needs of both workers and employers in Fiji.

He also proudly announced the resolution of the long-standing 1991 Vatukoula Gold Mine strike, with the first tranche of payments already made to affected workers and further payments planned.

Permanent Secretary for Employment, Mr. Maritino Nemani, updated Director-General Houngbo on preparations for the upcoming Pacific Employment Forum, set to take place in September in partnership with the ILO. The forum will address key regional issues such as employment, climate resilience, and labour mobility.

Mr. Nemani noted that the Pacific region faces unique challenges, including vulnerability to climate change and natural disasters, and emphasized the need for continued ILO support and tailored assistance.

The meeting was also attended by tripartite partners: Mr. Edward Bernard, CEO of the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation (FCEF), and Mr. Felix Anthony, National Secretary of the Fiji Trades Union Congress (FTUC), who both expressed their strong support for the government’s ongoing efforts to improve employment laws and practices.

Minister Singh thanked the ILO Director-General for the organization’s valuable assistance in the labour law review and requested continued support for other policy developments. He also called for increased investment in capacity building across the Pacific, to address the region’s specific labour market challenges.

In response, Mr. Houngbo commended Fiji’s efforts and recognized the substantial progress made. He reiterated the ILO’s commitment to supporting Fiji in strengthening its labour governance and advancing decent work for all.

The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their partnership and commitment to continued cooperation.

Fiji’s progress over the past two years was acknowledged as a significant step toward enhanced social dialogue and improved labour conditions.