ABC News Australia’s The Pacific program has uncovered allegations of mistreatment and exploitation of Fijian domestic workers in Tonga.
In a special report shared on social media, some described exploitation and unmet employment promises after relocating to Tonga for work.
“I almost ran away because too much work,” a woman said during the broadcast. She said she worked 18 hours a day for four years with only a break to attend church on Sundays.
The workers were recruited from Fiji with the promise of stable domestic work. Instead, many claim they were underpaid, isolated, and pressured to endure poor living and working conditions.
“We’ve been having hard times with false promises,” a man told ABC’s The Pacific. He said they were not paid in full for construction work they were engaged to do.
The program’s investigation highlights the vulnerability of Pacific Island workers, particularly women, in overseas domestic roles.
Fijian workers advocate in Tonga, Vainikolo Taumoepeau, said that years ago Fijians were offered employment contracts before travelling to Tonga but verbal agreements is all it takes these days.
The Tongan government has not yet publicly responded to the ABC report, but on social media many are calling for action.
“This is unacceptable.,” said one advocate. “No Fijian or any worker from any nationality deserves to be treated this way. False promises and illegal working conditions are a clear abuse of human rights.”
“Tonga must take responsibility and ensure that all workers, especially our Fijians, are treated with dignity, respect, and fairness.”
“Exploitation and abuse!”, another said. “When someone withholds your passport and fails to compensate you for your labor, it’s a clear violation of human rights and eerily reminiscent of modern-day SLAVERY.”
Tonga has an employment bill that is yet to be signed into law.
“The Act remains a priority for the current government so once the Employment Relations Act receives royal assent and is enacted, the Government is fully prepared to implement it,” according to a spokesperson from the Ministry of Trade and Economic Development.
As the story gains attention, both Fiji and Tonga face increasing pressure to investigate the recruitment agencies involved and enforce stronger labour rights protections.
The full episode is available on ABC Australia’s Youtube platform.
