Cook Islands, led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration, participated in a regional workshop in Samoa to discuss the social impacts of labour mobility and refine their approach, amidst ongoing domestic considerations regarding mandatory breaks for expatriate workers.

Cook Islands participated in the Regional Workshop on the Social Impacts of Labour Mobility, held in Apia, Samoa, last week from June 23-26. The workshop was facilitated by the PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU), with the Cook Islands delegation led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration (MFAI).

In a statement, MFAI says labour mobility remains a key driver of economic growth across the Pacific, improving livelihoods and strengthening communities.

At the same time, its social impacts on workers and families – both positive and challenging – are gaining greater focus among policymakers and partners.

The workshop convened representatives from PACER Plus member countries, regional and international organisations, to share experiences and explore the labour mobility schemes, including the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme, the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme, and the Intra-Pacific Labour Mobility Scheme.

Through open dialogue and shared learning, the Cook Islands is “committed to refining its labour mobility approach to maximise long-term, sustainable benefits for the nation and region”.

This commitment comes on the back of MFAI proposing to reintroduce controversial mandatory breaks and limitations on permit renewals for expat workers in the Cook Islands. These include the requirement to leave the Cook Islands for one month after three years of employment or one year after six years of employment. This is part of the eight policy changes MFAI is considering.

At the regional meeting in Samoa, key discussions focused on shared social and economic challenges, reintegration of returning workers, and the role of the PACER Plus Arrangement on Labour Mobility in supporting coordinated regional responses.

Leading the Cook Islands delegation, MFAI principal immigration officer Chere Arthur emphasised: “In reviewing our Intra-Pacific Labour Mobility (IPLM) pilot, we’ve gained valuable insights into the specific challenges of meeting our labour needs.”

“This experience underscores the importance of designing labour mobility schemes that align with the Cook Islands’ economic context and workforce demands, ensuring they effectively support our country’s development.”

While the Cook Islands’ IPLM pilot is yet to be implemented, participation in the workshop provided a strategic opportunity to engage regional counterparts and gather practical insights.

These lessons will directly support the Cook Islands in strengthening policy and operational planning as the pilot progresses, says MFAI.

Broader regional discussions will continue at the upcoming Pacific Labour Mobility Annual Meeting in November 2025, to be held in Honiara, Solomon Islands.