The Fiji Ministry of Employment has collaborated with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop a National Labour Mobility Policy Framework and Strategy. The agreement was signed by Maritino Nemani, the Permanent Secretary for Employment, and Solomon Kantha, the IOM Chief of Mission, in Suva on Friday.
Nemani described the signing as a key milestone in improving labour mobility and promoting sustainable development in Fiji. He emphasized the importance of the MOU in fostering collaborative efforts to tackle the challenges and opportunities associated with labour mobility. The aim of the National Labour Mobility Policy and Strategy is to establish a systematic and sustainable approach that benefits both Fijian workers and the country as a whole.
The policy will focus on enhancing Fijian workers’ skills and employability, enabling them to compete in the global labour market, while also opening up opportunities for foreign workers in Fiji. Nemani also mentioned the importance of protecting workers’ rights and welfare to ensure fair treatment and dignity in their host countries.
Kantha acknowledged the significance of the MOU in reinforcing the partnership between IOM and the Ministry of Employment. He stated that this agreement would allow IOM to provide technical assistance in protecting migrant workers’ rights, conducting research, and building capacity for comprehensive labour migration data analysis. These efforts aim to contribute to poverty reduction, promote economic growth, and support human development.
IOM is currently working with the Ministry under a project focused on Labour Mobility for Sustainable Development and Climate Resilience in the Pacific, funded by the Migration Partnership Trust Fund. This joint initiative with the International Labour Organization (ILO) is set to be implemented over 24 months. Kantha expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, reaffirming IOM’s commitment to assisting Fiji in realizing its national development goals through this MOU.