[PRESS RELEASE] International Migrants Alliance Calls for Global Action Against Fascist and Neoliberal Attacks of Trump
September 08, 2025
The International Migrants Alliance (IMA) has issued a powerful call to action, urging migrants, immigrants, refugees, and displaced peoples worldwide to "STAND-UP, UNITE AND FIGHT BACK!" This urgent statement was delivered during a Political Conference organized by the IMA-USA Chapter, Tanggol Migrante Movement, and Bayan USA, held on August 30th and 31st, 2025.
Eni Lestari, Chairperson of the International Migrants Alliance, emphasized the critical need for collective resistance. "The attacks against migrants, refugees, and working people in the United States under Trump’s second leadership are the most blatantly fascist and desperate attempts to save itself from the crises," Lestari stated. She condemned the "zero tolerance" policy as a deliberate act to scapegoat migrants and refugees for societal and economic issues.
Lestari highlighted the conference's significance in uniting diverse communities to formulate collective strategies of resistance, stating, "This conference is proof of your readiness and commitment to fight back as a movement and stop the fascist attacks of the US government."
The IMA Chairperson addressed the US economy's dependence on migrant labor despite relentless attacks. "At the heart of imperialism lies the drive for super profit, and cheap migrant labor has always been central to this pursuit," Lestari explained. She noted that the US has historically relied on cheap, disposable labor while simultaneously criminalizing these workers, citing that approximately 70,000-80,000 migrants were deported in the first half of 2025 alone.
The IMA stressed that the situation in the US reflects a deepening global pattern of exploitation and repression. "An attack to one is an attack to all, as the US government’s actions signal an intensification of attacks against migrants and refugees that other host countries are likely to follow," Lestari asserted.
Lestari detailed how economic displacement and conflicts instigate forced migration, and how origin countries exploit this vulnerability through labor export programs. She concluded by stating that fascism under a neoliberal regime is a tool for perpetuating the dominance of the ruling class.
Drawing lessons from resistance movements, Lestari outlined four key takeaways: the importance of united migrant ranks, forming a united front with other sectors, combining legal and community/collective actions, and holding governments of origin countries responsible for their nationals' protection.
"Movement building means forging solidarity among migrants and with the broader working class, transforming scattered grievances into a powerful force that confronts exploitation, asserts dignity, and fights for genuine social change," Lestari concluded.
The International Migrants Alliance reaffirms its commitment to collective resistance and international solidarity in the face of escalating attacks on migrant and refugee rights worldwide.
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