A UNICEF study is investigating the effects of the Pacific labour mobility scheme on neglected children in Fiji, Samoa, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu, highlighting issues of inadequate family support and rising tensions. The study indicates that infidelity is a significant factor, with many children being adversely affected.
The research outlines numerous challenges tied to labour mobility, such as family breakups, exploitation, social isolation, and a lack of care for families remaining at home. Talei Cama, a Child Protection Specialist at UNICEF Pacific, expressed hopes that the findings will drive policy changes and support systems for children left behind.
Fiji’s Minister of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Agni Deo Singh, voiced concern over the results of the study, emphasizing the urgent need for a unified response through dialogue and the sharing of successful practices among affected nations. He stressed the importance of a thorough evaluation of the scheme’s impacts, the establishment of protective measures, and fostering regional collaboration to effectively tackle these challenges.
UNICEF Pacific is collaborating with the Ministry of Employment to conduct the research. Maritino Nemani, the Permanent Secretary for Employment, noted that the findings will prompt the Ministry to reassess how labour mobility is managed.