Salutations!
Good morning and Ni Sa Bula Vina’a
I would like to begin by acknowledging the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the land on which we stand today, ki Navatulevu – vua na Momo Na Tui Nadi .
I pay my respect to their Chiefs past and present, the emerging leaders and members of the Vanua o’ Nadi who may be present here this evening, I acknowledge their role in caring for the Vanua.
Introduction
I am honour to address this esteemed gathering today, as we open the International Trade Union Conference for the Asia Pacific region – here in our thriving town of Nadi.
This conference is more than a meeting of professionals. It is a forum of conscience. A space where we explore and bring ideas together, where the workers’ voice is amplified, where we are reminded that decent work and the dignity of workers are not negotiable. These are fundamental to tripartism, justice and the nations’ conscience.
Our National Context and Priorities
When the people of Fiji entrusted my government with leadership, they did so with a call to restore trust in public institutions, rebuild unity, and reinstate the noble values that are the foundation of our country – values of faith, love and decency.
As Prime Minister, I want to be clear: the welfare of workers will always be a priority under the Government I lead.
At the heart of our national development priorities is a commitment to inclusive socio-economic growth, underpinned by respect for human rights, decent work, and tripartism – the essential relationship between government, employers and workers.
We are working to shape a society where workers are not only seen as economic agents but as partners in development — with insights that inform policies, cutting edge knowledge and skills that propel research and productivity, worker rights and responsibilities that elevate ethical work culture and conducive work environment, where futures are secure.
And trade unions are important allies in ensuring that growth benefits all and progress leaves no one behind.
In our pursuit of genuine democracy, we recognize that labour rights are human rights. A truly democratic society cannot exist without the freedom of workers to organize, to negotiate, and to advocate freely.
That is why, since assuming office, this Government has taken decisive steps to review and repeal repressive labour legislation that undermined trade union freedoms, and destroyed trust.
Recent outcomes demonstrate the Government’s position on workers’ rights in Fiji –
Let me assure you:
In recent months, as more Fijians take up overseas work opportunities under the PALM scheme in Australia and the RSE scheme in New Zealand, we have seen a growing number of migrant workers arriving in Fiji — from countries like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka — to help fill essential roles.
Let me be absolutely clear:
This Government is committed to ensuring that all workers in Fiji — local or migrant — enjoy the same rights, the same dignity, and the same protections under the law.
We will not tolerate exploitation, discrimination, or unfair treatment. We are reviewing and strengthening our labour laws and enforcement capacity to ensure that every worker on Fijian soil is treated fairly according to law. Because decency at work should know no borders.
Just recently, I visited Australia and met with Fijian workers under the PALM scheme — working on farms, building lives, sending money home, and contributing to the economies of both our nations.
It was a humbling experience. I saw ‘hope’ in their eyes, and I also heard their concerns. I want to assure them — and assure you — that our government is working closely with both Australia and New Zealand to ensure:
Our relationship with Australia and New Zealand is not just about remittances — it’s about partnership. A partnership built on shared values and shared responsibilities for the wellbeing of our people.
Review of Labour Laws, Reform and Our ILO Commitments
We are actively working on:
We are doing this in full consultation with the tripartite constituents — including many of you present here today.
We are committed to aligning our national policies with the ILO Declaration on Social Justice for a Fair Globalization, as we believe that a just transition must include everyone — especially workers.
We are doing this through open and good faith dialogue with our tripartite partners. Together we will build a better way forward.
As we look ahead, we must ask not just how we protect today’s jobs — but how we prepare for tomorrow’s realities.
The future of work is already upon us. Automation, AI, digital platforms, climate transitions, and demographic shifts are reshaping and re-calibrating the world of employment. For small island economies like ours, this brings both disruption and opportunity.
Our government is investing in:
We also continue to foster strategic partnerships with regional and international institutions to build resilience in our labour markets.
Our development vision is built on the principle that no one should be left behind — not in the city, not in the rural or maritime areas, and certainly not in the workplace.
We are undertaking bold economic reforms to improve the quality of lives of all Fijians:
These reforms are not abstract policy. They are about improving the quality of life of real people — especially workers and their families.
Regional Solidarity and the Role of Trade Unions
This conference demonstrates the strength of regional solidarity.
To our friends in the Asia-Pacific region: your presence here is a sign of commitment not only to your national causes but to a shared vision of justice across borders.
Let us continue to work together — Governments, unions, employers, and civil society — to build an Asia-Pacific region where economic growth does not come at the expense of human dignity.
Fiji is proud to host this conference. Some of you have chosen to extend your stay and enjoy our hospitality, and we welcome you with open arms. May your time here be both productive and memorable.
Conclusion
Ladies and gentlemen, the future of work is not just something we anticipate — it is something we shape.
Let us shape it together — Governments, workers, employers, and unions — with vision, with courage, and with compassion.
Let Fiji stand as a beacon for fairness.
Let the Asia-Pacific rise as a region where development embraces all.
And let our partnership be defined not by words alone — but by action.
May your deliberations over the coming days be fruitful and enjoyable.
Vinaka vakalevu. May God bless your work.