New Zealand Faces Crisis with Estimated 8,000 Modern Slavery Victims

New Zealand is grappling with a significant issue of modern slavery, with an estimated 8,000 victims living in conditions of exploitation, according to findings from the Global Slavery Index. This alarming figure sharply contrasts with the 31 reported cases of human trafficking recorded annually by authorities, highlighting a substantial gap in understanding and addressing the problem.

Calls for Stronger Measures Against Trafficking

The country’s Minister for Organised Crime has underscored the urgent need for stronger actions to combat trafficking. Current police data shows there were 19 ongoing investigations last year related to various forms of trafficking, including child exploitation and forced labour. The police initiated an additional 31 new investigations, yet experts warn that these numbers do not accurately reflect the scale of modern slavery in New Zealand.

Rebecca Kingi, an independent legal specialist in trafficking, expressed concerns that the existing systems are inadequate for collecting vital data on trafficking incidents. She noted, “We don’t have systems in place to adequately collect data and intelligence around trafficking in persons. To my knowledge, the police do not have specific systems in place in relation to that.” This lack of infrastructure makes it challenging for victims to report their situations and receive the support they need.

Legislative Gaps and Historical Misunderstandings

New Zealand’s approach to trafficking has been historically influenced by the misconception that it primarily involves cross-border movements. This perspective, which has been embedded in legislation since 2015, has limited the effectiveness of local responses. Kingi pointed out that trafficking should be recognized as a serious crime, rather than merely an immigration issue. “Trafficking is not an immigration crime—it’s a crime in its own right,” she stated.

The reliance on Immigration New Zealand for trafficking responses may deter victims from coming forward, as they fear potential deportation. Kingi highlighted the need for a dedicated police unit to lead trafficking investigations, similar to models employed in the UK and Australia, where specialized enforcement officers are trained specifically to handle such complex cases.

The current number of investigations is viewed as insufficient. Kingi remarked, “This is a growing type of crime because it is profitable for the criminal actors involved.” She called for proactive efforts to combat trafficking, emphasizing that the low number of reported cases likely underrepresents the true scope of the issue.

Furthermore, a memo from Immigration New Zealand (INZ) staff to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment revealed that victims are not receiving adequate support. The advice pointed to a critical lack of resources and training for staff who are often tasked with providing assistance to victims while also managing their investigative duties.

Associate Immigration Minister Casey Costello acknowledged the need for a stronger response system to organized crime, including trafficking. She indicated that she is receiving guidance from a ministerial advisory group focused on this issue and anticipates a report that will inform future actions. “A key theme is that we need a stronger system response to all of the aspects of serious crime, including trafficking and migrant exploitation,” she stated.

The urgent call for improved measures highlights a growing recognition of modern slavery as a critical issue in New Zealand that requires immediate attention. As the country seeks to enhance its response, the hope remains that victims will soon receive the support and protection they need to escape their circumstances.