Launch of Our Groundbreaking Research
On 15 November 2025, we launched our latest report:
“Aotearoa New Zealand Government and the Sanctioned Exploitation of Migrant Construction Workers.”
This research provides compelling evidence that past and present New Zealand governments have been complicit in designing and perpetuating a system that exploits migrant construction workers—and profits from their exploitation. During the launch, participants and the NZ Human Rights Commission representative agreed that these practices can be likened to modern slavery and human trafficking.
The report outlines urgent policy recommendations, including:
- Decoupling visas from employers
- Establishing an independent migrant labour regulator
- Creating pathways to permanent residence
- Guaranteeing access to healthcare, tenancy, and legal ai
Strengthening Global Solidarity at the 6th IMA Global Assembly
From October 24–26, Migrant Action Trust joined 167 delegates from 125 organisations across 28 countries in Kathmandu, Nepal, for the 6th Global Assembly of the International Migrants Alliance (IMA).
As proud members since 2022, this was a vital opportunity to amplify the voices of migrants from Aotearoa on an international stage. Why was it important to be there? Because the struggles of migrant workers are deeply interconnected—from detention and deportation in the U.S., trafficking in Southeast Asia, exploitation of remittances in the Philippines and Nepal, to unpaid seafarers stranded by trade wars and climate change.
We proudly co-emceed Day 1 and led a breakout session on Trafficking and Disappearances, sharing insights from our work in Aotearoa. The assembly featured powerful discussions on economic oppression, militarism, and strategies for resistance. Together, we raised our voices in solidarity, declaring:
WE ARE WORKERS! WE ARE NOT SLAVES!
As an IMA Aotearoa New Zealand Chapter member, we remain committed to fighting exploitation, providing free employment support, and building global solidarity to end forced migration.
We invite you to read the report, share it within your networks, and join us in advancing migrant rights both locally and globally. Your partnership is crucial in this collective struggle for fairness, dignity, and justice.
