Fiji became a member of the ILO in 1974. In 1975 the ILO opened its Office for the South Pacific in Suva, which now serves as the administrative base of the ILO’s operations in the Pacific. Fiji has ratified 28 ILO Conventions including all eight of the ILO’s fundamental conventions
The ILO has helped Fiji develop in many different ways, principally by providing technical expertise. In recognition of local employment conditions an integrated approach to policy development and implementation was applied, using the Integrated Human Resources Development Programme (IHRDP).
A vocational skills development programme, targeting disadvantaged and marginalised communities) such as single parents, disabled persons, social welfare recipients, internally displaced people, prisoners’ dependents, former prisoners, and people without land) has stimulated income generating opportunities for hundreds of people. The programme’s links to rural banking and other support services has been a key strength.
A number of ILO methodologies and tools are being adapted and tested for use in the Pacific, including HIV & AIDS workplace policies and strategies (developed with the regional grouping of Chiefs of Police), and the involvement of men as partners in reproductive health - so promoting more gender responsive and productive workplaces.
The recent Employment Relations Bill reflects the strength of the tripartite dialogue mechanism in the country.