[SUMMARY ARTICLE] IMA Asia-Pacific Regional Conference on Migration, Modern Slavery and Workers’ Solidarity
On August 9 and 10 in Bangkok, Thailand, the IMA Asia-Pacific convened a two-day conference that brought together migrant worker leaders and allies to deepen our understanding of modern-day slavery of migrant workers, and how to fight against it.
The first day opened with keynotes from Noel Colina, regional coordinator of the International League of Peoples Struggles (ILPS) Asia-Pacific; and Jerome Adonis, chairperson of Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU). Colina explained how imperialism creates conditions that force workers to migrate, governments institutionalise labour trafficking through labour export and import policies, and both governments and employers profit from migrants’ precarious status. Adonis emphasised that migrant workers and local workers share common interests. Employers benefit when migrant workers are paid less and denied rights because this weakens labour standards for all workers. Therefore, solidarity between migrant and local workers, as well as cooperation across borders, is crucial to advancing our movement.
Participants explored how policies and practices contribute to the modern slavery of migrants, and the intensifying state control, violence, repression, and fascist attacks experienced by migrants and workers. Breakout sessions provided an opportunity for participants to deepen their analysis and share experiences.
The first day concluded with a migrant community visit, where participants met with members of a Filipino migrant workers’ organisation in Bangkok. The organisation supports and organises overseas Filipino workers, builds their capacity, and develops campaigns and welfare programs addressing issues faced by migrant workers. Participants were divided into small groups to engage in conversations with migrant workers, who shared their experiences and perspectives as teachers, tutor-nannies, domestic workers and musicians.
The exchange provided participants with a grounded understanding of the realities faced by Filipino migrant workers and the importance of migrant-led organising and solidarity.
The second day focused on strengthening workers’ solidarity. Discussions highlighted existing and emerging efforts by migrant and local workers to organise, build networks, and campaign against modern-day slavery in their regions. Through breakout discussions and report backs, participants shared experiences, explored ways to strengthen our organisations, and identified opportunities for greater cooperation.
The conference concluded with a discussion of next steps, the sharing of a collective declaration, and a synthesis of the key lessons and commitments emerging from the two days. The conference developed strategies and tactics to further advance our community organising, international solidarity and united action with all workers.
