PRIME Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says one of the most complex challenges is ensuring regional labour mobility benefits all our nations- both sending and receiving workers.
He told those present at the inaugural Pacific Regional Tripartite Conference in Nadi yesterday the workers in the Pacific contribute enormously across the region and beyond.
However, he said mobility must strengthen and not weaken home communities.
That, he added meant:
– skills development must flow both ways – workers returning home with new expertise that enriches their communities;
– remittances should support not only families but also broader community development;
– circular migration should complement permanent local employment, not replace it; and
– workers abroad must enjoy equal rights and protections, ensuring their dignity and security.
Mr Rabuka said the Talanoa Forum at the conference would coordinate these eff orts, sharing best practices and addressing challenges together.
“The centerpiece of this conference is the launch of the Regional PS Employment Talanoa Forum.
‘Talanoa’ is a uniquely Pacific process of inclusive, participatory, and transparent dialogue that seeks consensus while respecting diverse views.
Fiji pioneered the talanoa dialogue in climate negotiations as a constructive alternative to adversarial talks – an approach the ILO immediately embraced as aligned with tripartite principles.
“Now, we bring this same spirit to employment cooperation, strengthened by five decades of ILO-facilitated dialogue among governments, employers,
and workers.
“The Talanoa Forum will meet regularly with a dedicated secretariat, resources and mandates. Most importantly, it will uphold the tripartite structure proven essential for sustainable labour market development.
“This forum goes beyond government officials. In line with ILO principles, it ensures equal participation from all stakeholders but always within the trusted tripartite framework.
“Let us commit today to turning our dialogue into real, tangible outcomes that make a difference for our people.”
The four-day conference will conclude on Thursday and is organised by the ILO in partnership with Fiji’s Ministry of Employment.
—
Note: This article was first published under the headline: Regional labour mobility challenges in Page14 of the print version of The Fiji Times dated Wednesday September 3, 2025
