International labour standards
Fiji advances dialogue on indigenous peoples' rights under ILO Convention No. 169
Fiji hosted a national dialogue to review progress on implementing the ILO’s Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention, 1989 (No. 169).
22 August 2025
Suva (ILO News) – Fiji has taken a significant step forward in strengthening its commitment to indigenous peoples' rights through discussions on the implementation of the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention, 1989 (No. 169), ratified by Fiji in 1998.
From 20 to 22 August 2025, representatives of the iTaukei and Rotuman communities, different Government agencies, representatives of the Fijian Trade Union Congress (FTUC) and the Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation (FCEF), NGOs advocating for indigenous rights, as well as academics and faith-based organizations convened in Suva to review progress and challenges in applying Convention No. 169 in a workshop organized by ILO. Key topics of discussion included land rights, inclusive participation, the role of indigenous women and the broader contributions of indigenous peoples to Fiji’s development.
Opening the meeting, the Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Honourable Agni Deo Singh, emphasized the vital role of indigenous cultures and traditional institutions in shaping Fiji’s national identity. Convention No. 169 guarantees indigenous peoples the right to participate in and be consulted on decisions that directly affect them. Fiji is the only ILO Member State in the Pacific, and the first in Asia and the Pacific, to have ratified the Convention. With indigenous peoples making up more than 50 per cent of the population in Fiji, the Convention serves as a cornerstone for recognizing and safeguarding their rights.
The representative of the Council of Rotuma, Rigamoto Nakaora, highlighted the importance of inclusive dialogue, stating: “We are glad to be part of this because we can voice our concerns and find avenues to help identify organizations that are willing to help us. We need to review the Rotuma Act before the next elections.” The workshop also supported preparations for Fiji’s upcoming report to the ILO Committee of Experts on the Application of Conventions and Recommendations. “Convention 169 contains many empowering provisions for the iTaukei people, enabling them to take charge of personal development and community-based entrepreneurship,” said Watesoni Nata Jr., Managing Director of Mediation Pacific.
Director of the ILO Office for Pacific Island Countries, Martin Wandera, noted: “The participation of the Fijian government, Fiji Trades Union Congress and the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation shows the tripartite commitment towards effective implementation of Convention No. 169. The ILO will continue to provide technical assistance to support Fiji in fulfilling its obligations under the Convention.”