Workplace Safety Must Include Freedom from Violence, Says Nemani

Permanent Secretary for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Jone Maritino Nemani, has stressed that gender-based violence remains a serious barrier to safe and productive workplaces in Fiji.

Speaking at the opening of a Gender-Based Violence Awareness Workshop facilitated by the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection, Mr Nemani said violence not only violates human rights but also undermines dignity, morale, and the overall wellbeing of workers.

“Every worker in Fiji deserves a workplace where respect, equality, and safety are guaranteed,” he said.

Mr Nemani highlighted that addressing gender-based violence is a shared responsibility, requiring collaboration between government, employers, unions, civil society, and development partners.

He acknowledged the ongoing partnership with the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection, as well as support from the Australian Government, in advancing Fiji’s National Action Plan to Prevent Violence Against All Women and Girls.

The Permanent Secretary said the National Action Plan provides a clear framework for prevention, response, and accountability, and reflects a national commitment to eliminating violence in all spaces, including workplaces.

“This workshop provides an important opportunity to deepen our understanding, strengthen collaboration, and equip ourselves with the tools to prevent and respond to gender-based violence,” Mr Nemani said.

He thanked facilitators and participants for their commitment, expressing confidence that the discussions would further strengthen Fiji’s efforts to promote dignity and equality at work.

Mr Nemani officially declared the Gender-Based Violence Awareness Workshop open, reminding participants that preventing gender-based violence is a collective responsibility.