New Zealand launches five-year plan to combat human trafficking — RNZ World

The New Zealand government has launched a five-year plan to combat human trafficking, acknowledging that the work of state agencies is hampered by a lack of resources and an unclear division of responsibilities. Authorities identified horticulture, the beauty industry, construction and hospitality as priority risk areas.

As RNZ World reports, Associate Immigration Minister Casey Costello said there had been a significant recent increase in the number of human trafficking investigations. According to her, such cases are difficult to prove in court, including because cases of domestic human trafficking need to be properly taken into account. She also stressed the importance of legislation fit for this task.

Problems in interagency cooperation

New Zealand’s Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment identified shortcomings in the interagency response system. These include fragmented reporting channels, unclear institutional functions and barriers to data sharing. Agencies also identify potential victims differently, have unequal capacity for fieldwork, and investigative resources remain limited.

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Police, immigration compliance services, labour inspectors and the Department of Internal Affairs may be involved in responding to human trafficking cases. Staff from the ministries of education, justice and children’s affairs are also involved in the process.

Support for victims

The first stage of the plan provides for an analysis of the current anti-trafficking system and the creation of a governance mechanism. As an interim measure, the government is to introduce a procedure allowing victims to receive support. During the second stage, authorities plan to coordinate training and strengthen partnerships with Pacific countries to prevent child trafficking.

Last year, 13 people were granted work visas for victims of human trafficking. The public advisory service Citizens Advice Bureau called for the creation of an independent modern slavery commissioner position. Last year, the U.S. State Department placed New Zealand in Tier 2 in its human trafficking assessment, noting that the country does not meet all minimum standards but is making significant efforts.