Pacific Labour Ministers seek fair, resilient future of work for region

Pacific labour leaders push for worker protections amid economic growth and migration pressures.

Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations Agni Deo Singh said leaders must ensure economic progress does not come at the expense of workers’ rights and social justice.

He made the remarks at the inaugural Pacific Tripartite Labour Ministers and Senior Labour Officials Meeting at the Tanoa International Hotel in Nadi today.

The theme of the three-day meeting is “Designing Our Destiny: A Just and Resilient Future of Work for the Blue Pacific”, which Mr Singh said reflected the region’s shared commitment to addressing the changing needs of Pacific people and economies.

He said the meeting sent a strong message that Pacific nations were united in promoting democratic values, fair labour practices and inclusive economic development.

“Equally, we must create environments where businesses can thrive, innovate and generate opportunities for our people and meaningful employment,” Mr Singh said.

“Let us work together to build labour systems that are modern, resilient and firmly grounded in the Pacific spirit of cooperation, dialogue and mutual respect.

“Through meaningful social dialogue and regional solidarity, we can shape a stronger, fairer and more prosperous future for all Pacific workers and employers.

“These same values are at the heart of tripartism — where governments, employers and workers work together in partnership to shape labour policies and governance in the changing world of work.”

Mr Singh said a just and resilient future of work meant ensuring no worker was left behind and that labour systems could withstand economic shocks, climate challenges, and global uncertainties.

“Labour laws are the foundation of social justice, workplace harmony, and economic stability.

“Strong labour legislation protects workers from exploitation, promotes fair wages and safe working conditions, advances equality of opportunity and provides employers with a stable and productive workforce.

“At the same time, strong and democratic labour institutions build investor confidence, strengthen public trust, and contribute to sustainable economic growth.

Across the Pacific, countries continue to face common labour market challenges, including youth unemployment, labour and skills development, climate-related displacement, informal employment, gender inequality, occupational health and safety concerns, and the growing impact of technology and digital transformation on jobs and industries.

“We are also witnessing increasing labour migration within and beyond our region, which requires stronger legal safeguards, ethical recruitment practices and enhanced regional cooperation to ensure the protection and welfare of migrant workers,” he said.

“As Pacific leaders, we must ensure our labour laws evolve alongside these emerging realities.

“Our legal and policy frameworks must remain relevant, balanced and people centred. They must support economic growth while upholding the dignity, rights, and welfare of workers.

“Importantly, this inaugural meeting signals the emergence of a stronger and more unified Pacific voice on labour and employment issues — not only within our region, but also in the global arena.”