A former member of the Grace Road Church has expressed her concerns regarding the treatment of Korean adults and children affiliated with the organization, characterizing their situation as a serious human rights issue rather than merely a custody dispute. This individual, who recently escaped from True Mart in Navua, emphasized the oppressive conditions faced by herself and her two children, seeking a better life after experiencing a difficult environment.
She voiced her belief that the Grace Road Group should adhere to Fijian laws, treating Korean members with the same rights and respect afforded to their Fijian counterparts. According to her, while Fijian employees enjoy fair working conditions, the Korean workers reportedly endure harsh treatment, with excessively long working hours and inadequate pay.
The woman highlighted that many Korean members have reportedly worked 12-hour days for extended periods without proper compensation or time off. She pointed to a troubling pattern of indoctrination within the organization, claiming that these individuals are subjected to frequent sermons and are pressured to write letters reinforcing the teachings of the church’s leader, who has been sentenced to additional prison time in South Korea.
Despite acknowledging the positive impact of Grace Road on the local community, she called for a reevaluation of labor practices to ensure compliance with local labor laws, including regulated work hours, time off, and additional benefits such as health insurance and pensions. The appeal for basic human rights underscores the growing concerns about the treatment of vulnerable populations and the importance of adherence to labor codes in fostering fair workplaces.
As the story develops, it is hoped that ongoing discussions and investigations will bring to light the broader implications of such treatment and lead to necessary reforms, ensuring that all workers, regardless of nationality or affiliation, are granted the dignity and rights they deserve.
Leave a comment