The Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation (FCEF) has emphasized the importance of aligning any amendments to the Employment Relations Act with the socio-economic realities of Fiji, while still upholding international labour commitments. FCEF Chief Executive Officer Edward Bernard underscored the necessity of finding a balance between the standards established by ratified International Labour Organization (ILO) Conventions and Fiji’s unique context as a small island developing state.
Bernard expressed concerns regarding the recent push by the Fiji Trades Union Congress (FTUC) for stricter penalties and conditions based purely on ILO conventions, highlighting that maximum labour standards may not be sustainable for Fiji. He stated, “The ILO Conventions provide for the adoption of minimum labour standards, and we must ensure we are not over-reaching by adopting maximum and unsustainable standards for Fiji.”
FCEF has already made strides in aligning local laws with international standards; in 2023, Parliament passed the Employment Relations (Amendment) Bill, which is in accordance with ILO Convention 87 on Freedom of Association. Moreover, the government amended the Employment Relations Advisory Board to comply with Convention 144 on Tripartite Consultation.
Bernard pointed out that while Fiji has made progress, there is still a pressing need for thorough gap analyses to identify any existing deficiencies in compliance with minimum standards. He noted the ongoing challenges faced by Fiji’s private sector, such as increasing operational costs, skilled worker migration, and low productivity, suggesting that the current Employment Relations (Amendment) Bill does not sufficiently address these critical issues.
Additionally, he stressed the need for caution in determining how far Fiji can comply with ILO conventions, stating, “We must be vigilant about how far we go in implementing these conventions to ensure sustainability for both workers and employers.”
This call for dialogue reflects not only the complexities of navigating labor laws in the current economic environment but also presents an opportunity for stakeholders to collaborate on regulations that can effectively protect workers’ rights while also fostering economic growth. The FCEF continues to encourage active participation from employers in public consultations, aiming for a balanced approach that benefits all parties involved.
As discussions progress, there remains a hopeful outlook that through collaboration and open communication among stakeholders, Fiji can develop labor laws that promote both fair labor practices and sustainable economic development.
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