National Consultation Opens on Inclusive Employment Guidebook

The Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Agni Deo Singh, has officially opened the National Consultation on the Inclusive Employment Guidebook for Persons with Disabilities.

The consultation aims to strengthen inclusive, equitable and accessible employment opportunities for persons with disabilities across Fiji. It brings together employers, trade unions, disability advocates, government ministries, international partners, civil society organisations and other key stakeholders to contribute to the development of the guidebook.

The Inclusive Employment Guidebook is intended to translate disability rights legislation into clear and practical workplace actions, guiding employers on inclusive recruitment practices, accessible workplace environments and safe working conditions.

While delivering his opening remarks, Minister Singh said the consultation marked an important milestone in Fiji’s efforts to build a more inclusive workforce.

“The opening of the national consultation on the Inclusive Employment Guidebook represents a vital milestone in our journey toward a workforce that embraces diversity, equity, and equal opportunity,” Minister Singh said.

He highlighted that Fiji’s legal and policy framework, including the Employment Relations Act 2007 and the Rights of Persons with Disability Act 2018, provides strong protections against discrimination and supports equal access to employment and reasonable workplace accommodations.

Minister Singh stressed that consultation and partnership are essential to ensuring the guidebook is relevant and effective.

“This consultation provides an opportunity for stakeholders to contribute their knowledge, experience and insights to help shape a resource that will drive meaningful and measurable change in workplaces across Fiji,” he added.

The guidebook is informed by evidence from a 2019 situation analysis focusing on blind persons in Fiji and reflects ongoing research, dialogue and national commitment to advancing disability inclusion.

The Employment Minister has encouraged all participants to actively engage in the consultation process to help strengthen inclusive employment practices nationwide.