Foreign workers exploited

Foreign workers in Fiji are experiencing exploitation, with reports of substandard wages and inadequate working conditions surfacing. In response, authorities are intensifying efforts to bolster protections against worker abuse and ensure fair treatment for migrant laborers.

The Ministry of Employment is actively reviewing and implementing stronger measures to prevent migrant workers from being deceived or mistreated. Daniel Tagivakatini, Director of Labour Standards, noted that while many workers arrive through legitimate overseas recruitment agencies, their employment reality in Fiji often falls short of promises. "These workers come through legal recruitment agencies and they end up here in Fiji with promise of being paid this much but then they get paid different salary or wage," he explained.

Complaints received include issues such as unpaid wages, contract discrepancies, poor living conditions, and unfair treatment. The ministry is exploring Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with countries like Bangladesh, a major source of migrant workers, to enhance worker migration processes and safeguards.

Simultaneously, the Immigration Ministry is tightening its scrutiny of employment agents and the documentation involved in the migration process. Officials have detected fraudulent documents and are taking action against those responsible. These concerns were highlighted during a discussion at the University of the South Pacific marking the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. Authorities emphasize that the exploitation of foreign workers remains a serious issue, as traffickers and illegal operators continue to exploit vulnerable individuals.

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These workers come through legal recruitment agencies and they end up here in Fiji with promise of being paid this much but then they get paid different salary or wage.