Prime Minister Honourable Sitiveni Rabuka officially opened the International Trade Union Conference for the Asia-Pacific region at the Crowne Plaza Resort in Nadi today, reaffirming the government’s strong commitment to protecting workers’ rights, promoting decent work, and advancing social justice.
The conference brought together representatives of international and national trade unions, employers’ organisations, and civil society.
Prime Minister Rabuka, in his official address, highlighted that the conference is an opportunity to share ideas, amplify workers voices, and strengthen the principles of fairness and dignity in the world of work.
“This conference is more than a meeting of professionals. It is a forum of conscience, where the workers’ voice is amplified and where we are reminded that decent work and the dignity of workers are not negotiable,” he said.
Prime Minister Rabuka emphasised that under his leadership, the welfare of workers remains a national priority.
He said the government’s vision for inclusive socio-economic growth is anchored on respect for human rights, decent work, and tripartism — the partnership between government, employers, and workers.
“We are shaping a society where workers are not only seen as economic agents but as partners in development, trade unions are important allies in ensuring that growth benefits all and that progress leaves no one behind.”
At the outset, the Prime Minister highlighted several key initiatives reflecting the government’s renewed focus on labour rights and inclusivity, including:
• The review and adjustment of the National Minimum Wage
• The revitalisation of the Wages Council
• Payment of the Vatukoula gold mine strikers and
• Review of the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) Act to reinstate workers’ representation.
At the occasion, he reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring equal protection and dignity for all workers in Fiji, both local and migrant.
Reflecting on his recent visit to Australia where he met Fijian workers under the PALM scheme, he witnessed both hope and hardship.
“Our government is working closely with Australia and New Zealand to ensure safe and fair working conditions, adequate housing, and strong monitoring of ethical recruitment and employer practices”
“Our relationship with these countries is not just about remittances, it’s about partnership built on shared values and shared responsibilities, “Prime Minister Rabuka added.
The Prime Minister also reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to the International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) core conventions and the Declaration on Social Justice for a Fair Globalization.
“We believe in freedom of association. We believe in collective bargaining. We believe in the right to decent, secure, and meaningful work,” he added.
Looking ahead, Prime Minister Rabuka stated that Fiji must not only protect today’s jobs but also prepare for tomorrow’s realities.
Concluding his remarks, the Prime Minister spoke about the government’s broader social and economic reforms aimed at reducing the cost of living, expanding affordable housing, improving healthcare and infrastructure, and ensuring that no is left behind.
“These reforms are about improving the quality of life of real people especially workers and their families,” he said.
“Let us shape the future of work, together with vision, courage, and compassion. Let Fiji stand as a beacon of fairness, and let the Asia-Pacific rise as a region where development embraces all,” Prime Minister Rabuka concluded.
The International Trade Union Conference–Asia Pacific continues this week, bringing together regional delegates to deliberate on issues of labour rights, decent work, and sustainable development.
