The Government of Fiji has taken a significant step toward shaping a more inclusive and resilient labour market with the validation of the draft of its second National Employment Policy (NEP) and Action Plan. Developed in collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO), the new policy lays out a strategic framework for promoting sustainable employment and addressing emerging labour market challenges.
The validation took place during a two-day workshop held on 12-13 June in Suva, bringing together around 25 participants from government ministries, employer and worker organizations and civil society. The workshop provided a platform for refining the policy through collaborative dialogue, fostering consensus and securing shared ownership ahead of its formal adoption later this year.
Christian Viegelahn, ILO Employment Specialist, highlighted the policy's importance: "This policy is backed by a concrete action plan. Its success will depend on the joint efforts of all stakeholders to ensure implementation delivers real benefits for workers, employers and the wider Fijian society."
Lui Mario, Director of the National Employment Centre under the Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, also stressed the policy's potential: "It is a vital tool for improving productivity while ensuring better working conditions and employment opportunities for all."
The NEP outlines several strategic priorities, including enhancing job quality, formalizing and strengthening micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), facilitating a just transition to a climate-resilient and green/blue economy, strengthening education and skills development, and leveraging digitalization and artificial intelligence to create future-ready jobs. Improved labour market information systems also feature prominently in the policy.
© ILO