Consultations regarding proposed modifications to Fiji’s employment laws were ongoing today before the Standing Committee on Economic Affairs. The Employment Relations Amendment Bill 2025 aims to implement stricter penalties for breaches of workplace regulations and introduce new protections designed to enhance working conditions, especially for women.
The Fiji Women’s Rights Movement was among the various organizations that submitted their concerns to the committee, focusing on issues related to safety, leave entitlements, and workplace equality. Standing Committee Chair Premila Kumar expressed that the proposed Bill signifies major reforms and emphasized the importance of public feedback in this legislative process.
“The Employment Relations Amendment Bill 2025 brings forth substantial changes to the Employment Relations Act of 2007, featuring 142 proposed amendments that are targeted at reinforcing compliance and bolstering worker protections,” Kumar stated.
During her address to the committee, Fiji Women’s Rights Movement Executive Director Nalini Singh highlighted the alarming underreporting of sexual harassment incidents. She noted that, on average, 20% of women experience sexual harassment at work, with the hotel and accommodation sector reporting the highest rates at 35%. Moreover, 82% of these incidents remain unreported, underscoring the imperative for organizations to establish comprehensive sexual harassment policies.
Singh also advocated for stronger maternity protections and the introduction of separate menstruation leave provisions. She argued that acknowledging separate menstruation leave would allow women to attend to their health needs without depleting their sick days, which might be necessary for other health concerns.
The Standing Committee plans to extend consultations throughout the country before finalizing its report on the Employment Relations Amendment Bill 2025. This initiative represents a significant step toward addressing critical issues affecting women in the workforce and enhancing overall worker rights in Fiji.
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