Kiribati and Vanuatu are strengthening cooperation on labour mobility through a South-South learning exchange aimed at improving migrant worker support, protection, and employment opportunities across the Pacific region.
The week-long peer learning mission brought together representatives from the Government of Kiribati, employers’ organizations, workers’ groups, and community stakeholders to learn from Vanuatu’s labour mobility programmes and support systems.
The exchange was coordinated by the International Labour Organization (ILO) through the MARI 2 Initiative, which supports Pacific countries in strengthening labour migration governance, promoting fair recruitment, and improving outcomes for migrant workers and their families.
Lessons from Vanuatu’s experience will help guide the development of Kiribati’s first Overseas Worker Resource Centre. The centre will serve as a support hub for aspiring, current, and returning migrant workers, providing access to information, guidance, and reintegration assistance.
Officials from both countries emphasized the importance of regional collaboration in creating effective labour mobility systems. They highlighted that successful migration is not only about employment opportunities but also about protecting workers’ rights, supporting families, improving financial resilience, and ensuring smooth reintegration after workers return home.
The learning exchange also demonstrated the value of cooperation between Pacific nations facing similar challenges, including geographic isolation, limited resources, and climate-related risks. Sharing practical experiences helps countries develop solutions that meet local needs while strengthening worker protections.
Through the MARI 2 Initiative, the ILO continues to support Pacific Island countries in building safe, fair, and rights-based labour mobility systems. The programme focuses on improving governance, strengthening recruitment practices, protecting migrant workers, and supporting sustainable development.
The partnership between Kiribati and Vanuatu highlights the growing commitment of Pacific countries to work together to ensure labour mobility benefits workers, families, and communities across the region.
