Discussions on fair management and ethical recruitment of migrant workers commenced at a workshop launched at the Novotel in Lami. The three-day event was organized by the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation (FCEF) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), drawing participation from 25 organizations across various sectors in Fiji. Employment Minister Agni Deo Singh officiated the workshop and emphasized the importance of compliance with labor laws to ensure that migrant workers receive the same rights as local employees.
Minister Singh expressed gratitude towards FCEF and IOM for their commitment to this initiative, highlighting the alarming reports of exploitation and unfair treatment that migrant workers have faced, including unpaid wages. He reassured that the ministry is actively addressing these cases, having imposed fines on employers for inhumane treatment in the past.
The workshop aims to educate employers on critical topics, including the labor migration process, recruitment, conditions of employment, and policy frameworks. Singh expressed hope that the training would lead to heightened awareness among employers about their responsibilities towards migrant workers.
Eldon Eastgate, FCEF vice president, acknowledged that the workshop was created in response to increasing reports of abuse of workers’ rights, aiming to establish a fair environment for both employers and employees.
In light of ongoing challenges, including reported mismatches between skilled labor supply and employer expectations, the government is taking steps to enhance protections for migrant workers. Recent parliamentary discussions have underscored the necessity of revising legislation to ensure fair treatment across the board, emphasizing a collaborative approach with the IOM to develop a national labor mobility policy.
This workshop represents a positive step towards fostering a more ethical and equitable workplace in Fiji, where the rights of migrant workers are upheld alongside those of local employees. Through cooperative efforts and comprehensive training, there is hope for improved outcomes and a more just labor environment for all workers in Fiji.
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