The Fijian Employment Ministry has established a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) to create a National Labour Mobility Policy Framework and Strategy for Fiji. The deal 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 described the signing as a pivotal moment that will enhance labour mobility and promote sustainable development within Fiji. He emphasized that the MOU reflects their commitment to collaborative efforts in tackling challenges and capitalizing on opportunities related to labour mobility.
The initiative aims to develop a structured and sustainable framework that benefits both Fijian workers and the nation, while also improving the skills and employability of the workforce. This will enhance their competitiveness in the global labour market and attract foreign workers seeking employment in Fiji.
Additionally, the policy will focus on safeguarding workers’ rights and welfare, ensuring they are treated fairly and with dignity in their host countries. Kantha from IOM stressed that this MOU is crucial for strengthening the partnership between IOM and the Employment Ministry.
He noted that the MOU will facilitate technical assistance in safeguarding migrant worker rights, along with conducting research, building capacity for comprehensive labour migration data analysis, and supporting counter-trafficking efforts, all aimed at poverty reduction and economic growth.
IOM is actively engaged with the Employment Ministry through the “Labour Mobility for Sustainable Development and Climate Resilience in the Pacific” project, funded by the Migration Partnership Trust Fund and jointly implemented with the International Labour Organization (ILO) over the next two years.
Kantha expressed eagerness to cooperate with the Ministry and reaffirmed IOM’s commitment to support the Fijian Government in achieving its national development goals through this partnership.