Marital breakdowns associated with the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme are worsening the situation for children in Fiji, according to UNICEF child protection specialist Talei Cama. In a recent interview, Cama emphasized the need for greater community involvement to tackle these urgent problems.
She highlighted that marital instability directly impacts children, with issues like violence and abuse often arising from difficulties related to housing, extramarital affairs, and financial troubles. Cama pointed out that maintenance orders are frequently not enforced, which means families do not receive the support they need. She mentioned that when workers are abroad, there can be gaps in remittances—either money isn’t sent home or, if it is, it isn’t used for the children’s welfare.
“Several notable issues have emerged from this study,” Cama remarked, indicating that while the preliminary research reveals serious concerns, further investigation is required.
Maritino Nemani, the Permanent Secretary for Employment, acknowledged the economic advantages of labor mobility, while also stressing the substantial challenges it brings. He noted the emotional strain on children caused by family separations, along with educational challenges and feelings of isolation, and asserted the importance of recognizing these issues. Nemani called for the development of strategies to address the problems affecting children.