Exploitation in Accredited Employer Work Visa Scheme (AEWV)
The New Zealand Human Rights Commission has urged significant changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme, advocating for the end of tying visas to specific employers and the establishment of a robust framework for ethical recruitment and worker protection.
Background on AEWV
Introduced in May 2022, the AEWV program allows accredited employers to hire overseas workers. The initiative aimed to curb migrant exploitation by restricting hiring to accredited employers only.
Findings from Recent Review
A review published on February 27, spearheaded by Jenn Bestwick under the Public Service Commissioner Te Kawa Mataaho, discovered that the scheme prioritized speedy visa processing over addressing exploitation risks. Immigration New Zealand (INZ) emphasized fulfilling the demand for migrant workers but neglected thorough verification checks, resulting in increased exploitation from July 2022 to June 2023.
April 2024 Reforms: Insufficient Solutions
Changes rolled out in April 2024 introduced stricter requirements for employers and visa applicants. Measures included reducing maximum continuous stay, mandating a minimum of 30 working hours per week guaranteed by employers, and imposing higher qualification or relevant work experience requirements alongside English proficiency standards. However, these modifications did not address fundamental human rights issues.
Ongoing Concerns and Government Response
Equal Employment Opportunities (EEO) Commissioner Saunoamaali’i Karanina Sumeo remarked that the recent changes overlooked core human rights risks associated with the AEWV scheme. Immigration Minister Erica Stanford acknowledged persistent migrant exploitation issues and assured that government actions are underway to tackle these concerns.
