Fiji has been given a rating of four in the 2025 International Trades Union Congress (ITUC) Global Rights Index, denoting the country has systematic violations of rights.
The ITUC states this ranking is based on a number of laws and legislations that still hinder workers rights in Fiji.
The ITUC says there is excessive civil or penal sanctions for workers and unions involved in non-authorised strike actions.
“Organisers must provide the Ministry of Labour with information concerning the date, time and location of a strike, together with a list of the participants,” said the ITUC.
“The Minister has the power to declare a strike illegal.”
“The possibility of fines being imposed where there is only a “reasonable suspicion” that the employee is engaging in unlawful strike action is likely to undermines the right to strike.’
“Unions are required to give 21 days’ notice to the Registrar of Trade Unions (who reports to the Minister of Labour) before putting a strike to the ballot. With respect to “essential” industries, a further 28 days’ notice must be given.”
“The Minister of Labour has the right to declare existing or proposed strikes unlawful. If s/he does so, the dispute is referred to a Permanent Arbitrator and workers are obliged to return to the workplace.”
