Real change can only be achieved through the actions of workers and their trade unions, says International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) Asia Pacific general secretary Shoya Yoshida.
Mr Yoshida told the recent ITUC Asia Pacific Council meeting in Nadi a new Employment Relations Act was expected to be passed this year, as recommended by the Committee on the Application of Standards (CAS).
“But let me stress this: no matter how effective the documents adopted by supervisory mechanisms may be, the CAS conclusions, the Commission of Enquiry, or ILC resolutions, they do not, by themselves, change anything.”
Mr Yoshida said this decision could then be supported by the International Labour Organization and the ITUC.
“In 2016, the Government, the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation (FCEF), and the FTUC signed a Joint Implementation Report, yet meaningful progress did not follow.
“In May 2019, brother Felix was arrested simply for organising a May Day rally, and I remember vividly how concerned we were whether the regional general council scheduled immediately afterwards could proceed safely.”
Mr Yoshida said a direct contact mission returned to Fiji before the last ILC in 2024 with its report, expressing relief that the ILO supervisory mechanisms had done their job.
“We also praised the tireless efforts of the FTUC.”
Reflecting on the significance of the discussion, Mr Yoshida said Fiji held a deep personal importance for him.
“From Fiji’s success, we are reminded of the crucial role and great potential of trade unions to influence national policy, especially policies that directly affect working people.”
