The Employment Ministry of Fiji has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) to develop a National Labour Mobility Policy Framework and Strategy.
On Friday, the agreement was signed in Suva by Maritino Nemani, the Permanent Secretary for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, and Solomon Kantha, the Chief of Mission for IOM.
Nemani emphasized that this signing represents a significant step toward improving labour mobility and promoting sustainable development in Fiji. He stated, “The signing of the MOU showcases our dedication to collaborative efforts in addressing both the challenges and opportunities of labour mobility.”
The aim of the National Labour Mobility Policy and Strategy is to establish a structured and sustainable approach that benefits both Fijian workers and the nation. It will also enhance the skills and employability of Fijian citizens, enabling them to compete in the global job market while facilitating opportunities for foreign workers seeking employment in Fiji.
Additionally, Nemani noted that the policy intends to ensure the protection and welfare of workers, ensuring that they are treated equitably and with respect in their host countries.
Kantha, IOM’s Chief of Mission, highlighted the importance of the MOU in reinforcing the partnership between the IOM and the Employment Ministry. He mentioned, “This MOU will empower IOM to provide technical assistance in protecting migrant workers’ rights, conducting research, building capacity for labour migration data analysis, and supporting anti-trafficking initiatives, all aimed at poverty alleviation, economic growth, and human development.”
Kantha also stated that IOM is actively collaborating with the Ministry on the “Labour Mobility for Sustainable Development and Climate Resilience in the Pacific” project, which is funded by the Migration Partnership Trust Fund and is being implemented in conjunction with the International Labour Organization (ILO) for a duration of 24 months.
He expressed anticipation for further collaboration with the Ministry, reaffirming IOM’s commitment to supporting the Fijian government in its national development goals through this MOU.