Fiji is undertaking a comprehensive review of its key migration laws to better address contemporary border challenges and enhance national security. The Ministry of Immigration officially received the final report and draft bill aimed at updating the Passport Act 2002, Immigration Act 2003, and Citizenship of Fiji Act 2009 in a ceremony held in Suva.
Reijieli Tuisawau, director of the Fiji Law Reform Commission, emphasized that existing laws no longer reflect the current global realities of migration, which include advancements in technology, shifts in labor mobility, and the increasing prevalence of transnational crime. The proposed reforms are set to strengthen border integrity, modernize citizenship procedures, and bolster compliance and enforcement capabilities.
Justice Minister and Acting Attorney-General Siromi Turaga noted that these updates follow months of extensive consultations across the nation involving various stakeholders, including individuals, professional associations, and government bodies. The key aspects of this new framework include the need to balance labor migration with local employment requirements, simplifying legal language to enhance understanding and application.
The draft bills are expected to be reviewed by the Cabinet Subcommittee on Legislation before being presented in Parliament, likely by early next year. Aliki Salusalu, Permanent Secretary for Immigration, emphasized that the reforms will help bridge enforcement gaps and improve cooperation between immigration and labor agencies to better safeguard foreign workers from potential exploitation.
This ongoing initiative reflects Fiji’s commitment to creating a modern, effective immigration system that guards against the aforementioned challenges while also valuing the rights and welfare of migrants. As the country navigates these changes, there is a hopeful outlook that the revamped policy structure can not only enhance national security but also foster a more equitable and humane approach to immigration, ultimately benefiting both residents and newcomers in Fiji.