Case study
From sector insight to national policy
How collective sector expertise became a briefing paper that helped shape Aotearoa’s new Trafficking in Persons National Action Plan.
Modern Slavery in New Zealand
The Global Slavery Index country study estimating the prevalence of modern slavery in New Zealand.
DATA
About this study
Walk Free’s Global Slavery Index estimates that 8,000 people are living in modern slavery in New Zealand, a prevalence of 1.6 per 1,000 people. It is the source of the headline figure used across this site.
What the study found
The study rates New Zealand among the least vulnerable countries in the Asia Pacific, with the main vulnerability being low acceptance of migrants and systemic discrimination against temporary migrant workers. The Government’s response is rated 54 out of 100: strongest on criminal justice, weakest on survivor identification and support, and on supply chain measures.
Forms of modern slavery present include forced labour, sexual exploitation, child trafficking and forced marriage, across agriculture, dairy, horticulture, construction and hospitality.
8,000people estimated to be living in modern slavery
54/100government response rating
1.6people per 1,000 of population
”New Zealand’s primary vulnerability is low acceptance of migrants, which manifests in systemic discrimination against temporary migrant workers.”
Why it matters for Aotearoa
The Index is where the sector’s most cited number comes from.
Its response ratings also show exactly where Aotearoa lags: survivor identification, survivor support and supply chains. The same gaps the sector is working to close.
Sources & further reading
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