Research Paper for Red Cross Red Crescent Global Migration Lab: Humanitarian Aspects of Labour Migration in the Asia Pacific

Abstract

This report examines the humanitarian challenges of international labour migration in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, evaluating current responses and recommending actions to improve migrant worker safety, rights, and wellbeing. Migrants in APAC face health risks from hazardous work environments, socio-legal issues like limited legal protections and discrimination, and broader impacts on countries of origin. While policies such as New Zealand’s Recognized Seasonal Employers Scheme provide partial support, further measures are needed. Key recommendations include establishing anonymous reporting for workplace hazards, creating culturally accessible healthcare and legal resources, and promoting coordinated policies between origin and destination countries. For origin countries, strategies focus on workforce development, support for families of migrants, and stable remittance flows. These recommendations aim to strengthen protections and resources for APAC migrant workers and their communities.