Fijian workers under labour mobility schemes are leaving their children with grandparents, with breakdowns in communication and support.
The Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) raised this before the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence yesterday during submissions on the Vuvale Union Treaty.
FCOSS executive director Vani Catanasiga said while the treaty promoted mobility under Article 3.2(b), it frames well-being around macroeconomic stability rather than family-centric safety nets.
“Children left behind by migrant workers face significant protection risks,” she told members.
Committee member Virendra Lal asked about Fiji losing teachers and nurses to Australia under the same schemes.
Ms Catanasiga said FCOSS was now experiencing brain drain in highly technical areas such as financial management due to migration and high turnover.
She said the 10-year work plan should include clear family protection measures and stronger support for local systems to retain skilled workers.
