The Fijian government has embarked on a comprehensive review of its human trafficking laws, assigning the task to the Fiji Law Reform Commission. Acting Attorney-General Siromi Turaga announced this initiative, which aims to establish a modern, robust legal framework to effectively combat various forms of human trafficking. This review is particularly pressing given Fiji’s current designation on the Tier 2 Watch List in the annual Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report by the United States State Department, highlighting notable shortcomings in the nation’s prevention, protection, and prosecution efforts regarding human trafficking.
The Commission’s mandate includes conducting a thorough gap analysis of existing legislative frameworks, specifically the Crimes Act 2009, Immigration Act 2003, and Cybercrime Act 2021, to assess whether current definitions, penalties, and protective measures meet international standards. Additionally, the review will consider critical international treaties while examining underlying issues that contribute to the vulnerability of individuals, such as poverty, migration patterns, gender inequality, and a lack of awareness.
In a bid to foster an inclusive process, the Commission will initiate public consultations, seeking input from a wide range of stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, legal professionals, academic institutions, and international partners. This coordinated effort aims to utilize local data effectively and enhance inter-agency collaboration.
The Commission is expected to present a final report, which will include recommendations for legislative amendments or draft new bills alongside a Cabinet Paper, to the Acting Attorney-General by September 30, 2026. This initiative underscores Fiji’s dedication to strengthening its legal measures against human trafficking, paving the way for significant advancements in the realm of human rights within the country. Through proactive reform and collaboration, Fiji aspires to create a safer environment for its citizens and those more vulnerable to trafficking.