Immigration laws to crack down on employers exploiting foreign workers

Employers who exploit foreign workers could soon face penalties under proposed changes to Fiji's immigration laws, as authorities move to close a legal gap that has largely punished workers rather than those responsible for their exploitation.

The Department of Immigration is reviewing its legislation to introduce penalties and enforcement measures against employers found abusing or exploiting foreign workers.

The proposed reforms were revealed by the department's manager of border security, Jese Cirikisuva, during a Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence hearing.

Mr Cirikisuva was responding to questions from committee member Virendra Lal, who asked what measures were in place to address the exploitation of foreign workers by employers, as well as breaches committed by workers.

Mr Cirikisuva said one of the major shortcomings of the current legislation was that it focused almost entirely on foreign workers, leaving employers largely beyond the reach of enforcement action.

“Unfortunately, the current legislation is largely focused on foreign workers. As a result, we continue to penalise workers, even though some may be victims,” Mr Cirikisuva said.

He said the revised legislation would give immigration authorities the power to take action against employers as well.

“There are currently no penalties for employers, and that is something being addressed in the revised immigration legislation, which will allow us to take action against employers as well.”

The proposed changes form part of wider efforts to strengthen protections for foreign workers and improve accountability for employers operating in Fiji.