Fiji has been placed on the Tier 2 Watch List for a second year in the 2025 Trafficking in Persons Report, highlighting the country’s ongoing struggle to fully meet the global standards for combating human trafficking. The Fijian government’s actions, such as increasing trafficking investigations and fostering stronger relationships with civil society organizations, are acknowledged. However, there has been little to no overall progress compared to prior years.
Key governmental initiatives include the rollout of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for victim identification, the establishment of a centralized system to manage trafficking cases, and enhancements to the National Action Plan against trafficking. Despite these advancements, major challenges remain, including a scarcity of new prosecutions and convictions of those involved in trafficking. Corruption and complicity within government ranks are significant barriers, allowing traffickers to evade justice.
Several recommendations have been outlined for Fiji to advance its anti-trafficking endeavors. These include formal adoption and execution of SOPs for victim support, strengthening investigative and prosecutorial efforts, and confronting corruption head-on. Key actions also involve improving the identification of trafficking victims among vulnerable groups, imposing harsh penalties on traffickers, and concentrating resources on the 2026 national action plan. Enhanced training for law enforcement and judicial officials regarding trafficking offenses is also deemed essential.
Furthermore, the report suggests revisions to the 2009 Crimes Act to ensure all forms of trafficking are criminalized. It emphasizes permitting foreign victims to secure employment while involved in investigations and protecting them from being sent back to countries where they could be at risk. Public awareness campaigns, improved collaborations with civil society organizations, expanded protection services like safehouses and medical care, and comprehensive training for frontline officials are also advocated.
The report recognizes Fiji’s recent legislative changes and its determination to tackle trafficking. Nonetheless, bridging the implementation gaps and boosting both local and international alliances are crucial to safeguarding vulnerable populations and ensuring effective law enforcement. Such sustained efforts are vital for paving a hopeful path towards meaningful change in combating human trafficking in Fiji.