A UNICEF study is investigating how the Pacific labor mobility scheme affects neglected children in Fiji, Samoa, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu, revealing significant issues related to inadequate family support and rising tensions.
The findings indicate that infidelity plays a significant role in these challenges, with children being among the most affected. The research highlights various social costs linked to labor mobility, including family breakdowns, exploitation, social isolation, and a lack of care for families left behind.
Talei Cama, a Child Protection Specialist at UNICEF Pacific, expressed hopes that the study will prompt the development of supportive policies for children who are left behind. Fiji’s Minister of Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations, Agni Deo Singh, commented on the alarming results, emphasizing the urgent need for a collective response involving dialogue and sharing best practices among nations facing similar issues. He also stressed the importance of evaluating the impacts of labor mobility and advocating for protective measures and regional cooperation.
UNICEF Pacific is collaborating with the Ministry of Employment to conduct this research. The Permanent Secretary for Employment, Maritino Nemani, indicated that the findings will prompt the Ministry to reassess labor mobility management strategies.