Human Rights Commission welcomes cross-party action on modern slavery

Source: Te Kāhui Tika Tangata Human Rights Commission 

Te Kāhui Tika Tangata Human Rights Commission welcomes today’s historic cross-party decision to progress modern slavery legislation in Aotearoa New Zealand.  

Modern slavery affects millions of people globally, with an estimated 8,000 people impacted in New Zealand, including those forced to work against their will, trapped in jobs through debt, or coerced or deceived into exploitative work away from home.

To advance the Modern Slavery Bill, Parliament has used the ‘Rule of 61’ for the first time, which allows backbench Members of Parliament to introduce legislation without going through the random ballot system if they enough have cross-party consensus.  

The cross-party support to place the Bill on the Parliamentary agenda marks a significant moment for New Zealand’s democratic process and demonstrates political cooperation and a shared commitment to protecting people from modern slavery.

“Advancing a modern slavery law is an important step forward for human rights in Aotearoa New Zealand,” said Professor Gail Pacheco, Equal Employment Opportunities Commissioner. “We commend MPs from across the house for working together to confront modern slavery.”

Professor Pacheco said the proposed legislation would strengthen transparency and accountability — two critical tools for preventing exploitation and abuse.  

“As this bill progresses, we look forward to engaging constructively with the Select Committee to help ensure the legislation is robust and effective,” Professor Pacheco added. “Today’s decision is an encouraging signal for both democracy and human rights in New Zealand.”