13 November 2026 - ROME - As New Zealand relies on thousands of Pacific workers through its Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme, a new regional report released in Rome today is highlighting concerns about worker vulnerability, exploitation and the impacts of labour migration on families and communities across Oceania.
The report, from the Migrants and Refugees Oceania Network (MRON), identifies temporary labour migration as one of three major challenges facing the region, alongside climate-related displacement and ongoing refugee movements.
While schemes such as New Zealand's RSE and Australia's Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) programme provide valuable employment and income opportunities for Pacific families, the report warns that workers can face exploitation and other vulnerabilities. Family separation, social isolation and the loss of skilled workers from Pacific communities are significant concerns.
The findings underline the importance of ensuring that labour mobility programmes protect workers' rights and dignity, while delivering genuine benefits for both workers and their home communities.
Communities in Kiribati experience daily flooding due to rising sea levels. Photo: Damian Kean/Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand
Climate displacement and refugee protection
As COP 31 continues in Turkey, the report also highlights the growing impact of climate change on Pacific communities. Rising sea levels are threatening homes, livelihoods and traditional ways of life, making climate-related displacement an increasingly urgent issue for the region.
Ongoing refugee movements, particularly involving West Papuans, are another priority, with the report calling for stronger regional cooperation and protection for displaced people.
MRON is working to bring together organisations across Oceania to advocate for stronger protections, better policy responses and practical support for migrants, refugees and displaced communities. Its work includes engaging with governments and civil society, amplifying Pacific voices on climate justice and advocating for the rights of temporary migrant workers.
A timely reminder of the need for protection
The report comes as the International Catholic Migration Commission (ICMC) marks its 75th anniversary, alongside the 75th anniversary this year of the of the 1951 UN Refugee Convention.
Both milestones provide an opportunity to reflect on the enduring need to protect people forced to leave their homes, as well as those who migrate in search of better opportunities.