The Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission has initiated an investigation into the working conditions, potential exploitation, violence, and other issues faced by Fijians who work abroad under various programs. This inquiry follows the death of a 24-year-old Fijian female migrant worker who traveled to Australia as part of the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility Visa 403 scheme.
Pravesh Sharma, the Commission chair, stated that the circumstances surrounding the deceased worker’s situation, which have been widely publicized, must be thoroughly examined by the relevant authorities. The Commission has reached out to the Ministry of Employment, Productivity & Industrial Relations for information regarding the worker’s death, as the Ministry plays a role in facilitating the migrant worker program.
Sharma explained that the investigation will involve collaboration with pertinent authorities in both Fiji and Australia. He highlighted the global vulnerability of migrant workers, who often endure long hours, low pay, and unsafe working and living conditions, with limited access to healthcare and legal support. Additionally, such workers may face physical and verbal abuse, as well as racial discrimination.
He emphasized that workers should have the freedom to associate and the right to join labor unions. Sharma raised concerns about who is monitoring the living conditions of Pacific migrant workers and whether there is a system for them to report violence and exploitation.
He asserted that all migrant workers are entitled to protection from any form of torture, whether it be physical, mental, or emotional, and from cruel, inhumane, or degrading treatment. In 2019, Fiji ratified the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families. Sharma noted that while Fiji aims to safeguard the rights of migrant workers within the country, it is equally important to ensure the same rights for Fijian workers abroad.