PIDC Policy Brief
PIDC is developing a Pacific Immigration Policy Framework for its Members to support and drive the development of immigration policy in the region based on international standards and best practices relevant to Members. This Framework will be available in mid-2019.
Human trafficking and people smuggling
- Understanding People Smuggling and Human Trafficking (No.2/2010)
Disasters and immigration
- Disaster response and the role of Immigration (No.1/2010)
PIDC is developing a Regional Framework to Combat human trafficking and people smuggling which Members will consider and possibly endorse in 2019/ 2020. Progress on the Framework will be provided in June 2019.
Disasters and immigration
- The Pacific Island Countries Trade Agreement (PICTA) and the Temporary Movement of Natural Persons (TMNP) scheme: Update (March 2010)
- Background to the Pacific Island Countries Trade Agreement (PICTA) and the Temporary Movement of Natural Persons (TMNP) scheme
In 2018 PIDC published a report on labour mobility within the Pacific region, as part of ongoing work to support PIDC members in their current and future labour mobility arrangements. PIDC sought to determine how best to contribute as an organisation to regional efforts to strengthen the links between labour mobility and economic growth in PIDC Member countries. The report is available to Members and discusses:
- Current drivers of labour mobility within the Pacific region;
- The Pacific regional migration system and the varying levels of access to temporary and permanent migration opportunities that are available to citizens of different Pacific countries;
- A review of labour mobility schemes that are presently in operation across the region. This includes the New Zealand and Australian seasonal work schemes as well as other temporary overseas employment opportunities for Pacific workers in areas such as fisheries, construction, and hospitality;
- A high-level review of the legislative and institutional arrangements governing labour mobility in Pacific countries; and
- The administrative capacity of PICs to manage their labour mobility arrangements.
Asylum Seekers and Refugees
UNHCR provides a 24/7 telephone hotline for Pacific Island Countries to provide advice and guidance when authorities encounter a person fearful of a return to their home country. The number to call is +61 408 619 052. For more details read the Non-Expulsion Checklist provided by UNHCR. The checklist highlights possible signs that a person is in need of protection and suggestions for further questioning.
Other Issues
Issues on which bilateral support has been provided include the regularisation of irregular migrant populations, introducing visa regimes, standards for passport photos, labour mobility policy and the entry of citizens.
Policy Blog
A policy blog has been developed to help share information provided bilaterally where appropriate with the wider membership.
