Suva, Fiji – The International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Fiji signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Fiji’s Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations on 9 August 2024. This MoU recognises a series of new initiatives and programmatic support from IOM aimed at strengthening the governance of labour mobility for Fiji.  

The signing of the MoU marks a significant milestone in promoting joint efforts to ensure safe, orderly and regular migration. This partnership aims to contribute to Fiji’s economic and social development through the development of Fiji’s national labour mobility policy and strategy.  

“Through this partnership, IOM will provide technical assistance to the Ministry, focusing on protecting migrant worker rights, conducting research, building capacity for comprehensive labour migration data collection and analysis, and supporting counter-trafficking activities. Our goal is to protect migrant workers while helping to reduce poverty, promote economic growth and support human development,” said IOM Fiji Chief of Mission, Solomon Kantha. 

IOM is working closely with the Ministry under the project Labour Mobility for Sustainable Development and Climate Resilience in the Pacific project, funded by the Migration Multi-Partner Trust Fund. The project is being implemented jointly with the International Labour Organization (ILO) for  24 months. IOM is providing technical assistance to develop Fiji’s labour mobility strategy which is poised to become a cornerstone of Fiji's approach to labour migration, ensuring that it remains safe, fair and beneficial for all involved.  

Key achievements of the project include the successful delivery of capacity-building training sessions such as the Bilateral Labour Mobility Agreements Training in Nadi, Fiji and the Fair and Ethical Recruitment Training in Port Vila, Vanuatu. These initiatives have equipped stakeholders with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the complexities of labour migration effectively. 

IOM is currently working on developing a Country Needs Assessment on pre-departure briefing through a family-centred lens. This assessment aims to better inform Fijians participating in labour mobility schemes about labour rights, contract understanding and informed decision-making. 

“The collaboration between IOM and the Ministry continues to yield positive outcomes for Fiji’s labour mobility landscape. We are committed to building on this momentum and achieving even greater successes in the future,” said Permanent Secretary, Jone Maritino Nemani. 

“The Fiji Government acknowledges the IOM’s commitment in providing technical assistance towards the development of the National Labour Mobility Policy and Strategy. We reaffirmed our support in strengthening partnership through this MOU to enhance labour mobility and fostering sustainable development in Fiji,” added Mr Nemani.