Bill C12 and the Manufactured Crisis of Migration
FEBRUARY 1, 2026
This statement by the Immigrant Workers Centre in Montreal critiques Bill C-12, an immigration-focused bill that aims to decrease migrants’ ability to arrive and stay in Canada, with reference to other migrant advocacy organizations’ statements. In particular, IWC problematizes the Canadian government’s focus on immigration as an issue while Canada refuses to value migrants and their labour. https://iwc-cti.ca/bill-c12-and-the-manufactured-crisis-of-migration/
$365,750 fine, foreign worker ban overturned against N.B. lobster processor
FEBRUARY 1, 2026
The Federal Court overturned some sanctions against a New Brunswick lobster processor by banning them from hiring through the temporary worker program for 2 years and imposing a fine of $365,750. However, the court found the government’s decision unfair because it failed to consider that the supervisor accused of workplace violence had left and that the company had posted signs encouraging workers to report harassment. The workplace-violence finding was sent back for review, while the court upheld the violations related to pay, holidays, and record-keeping, with the possibility of reaching a similar conclusion upon review. https://www.ctvnews.ca/atlantic/new-brunswick/article/365750-fine-foreign-worker-ban-overturned-against-nb-lobster-processor/
THE LABOR MARKET RETURN TO PERMANENT RESIDENCY
FEBRUARY 1, 2026
Currently, Canadian temporary work permit holders do not have a direct path to permanent residency. However, this study found that, within 3 years of obtaining PR status, workers transitioned into roles with 5.7% higher pay, a difference that increased over time. Temporary foreign workers are tied to a single employer, allowing employers to keep wages at a minimum without competing with other employers. Switching industries through labour mobility enables immigrants to apply more of their skills to higher-paying jobs. https://www.nber.org/system/files/working_papers/w34630/w34630.pdf
How global laws can give workers real power
FEBRUARY 1, 2026
The Journey of Economic Geography found that European corporate due diligence laws are empowering workers to hold companies accountable for labour and environmental abuses. Organizers from South Africa have successfully used Germany’s Supply Chain Due Diligence Act to initiate conversations with employers and retailers to secure improvements in their workplaces. The long-term impact of these laws depends on continued awareness, solidarity, and cross-border cooperation. https://phys.org/news/2026-01-global-laws-workers-real-power.html
The New/Old Imperialism: Analyses of the Current Caribbean
FEBRUARY 2, 2026
This online panel highlighted a return of old imperialism with state military and economic actions as a way to seize land and resources, focusing on the Trump administration and Venezuela. Discussions emphasized regional demands for the Caribbean to be a zone of peace. However, American interventions in Haiti to Cuba, Guyana to Grenada, and now Venezuela create colonial violence rather than peace. These interventions also undermine revolutions and socialist movements through political and economic control. Furthermore, the panellist emphasized that attacks on Afro-descendants in the Caribbean are also an attack on Africa itself. Panellists stressed that these U.S. interventions are not an attack on authoritarian regimes, but a violation of independence to align with American interests. The panel also had a call to action for activists to organize against imperialism, now an easily identifiable target, especially for young people. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=UDdFOmEB5TU
Trump Vineyard Seeks Foreign Workers At Lower Wages After Trump Administration Policy Shift
FEBRUARY 2, 2026
While Trump criticized the use of foreign labour in agriculture, his Department of Labour enacted a new rule that lowered the minimum wage for some H-2A temporary workers. Under this new rule, he approved the hiring of 36 foreign workers for his Virginia winery, nearly $2 less than it paid in 2025. As his administration tightens immigration enforcement and claims that foreign workers displace Americans from their jobs, Trump’s own business relies heavily on temporary foreign labour.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/zacheverson/2026/01/12/trump-organization-foreign-labor-winery-wages/
Legal awareness training for migrant worker helpers: guaranteeing equal access to human rights
FEBRUARY 2, 2026
Thailand has nearly 4 million migrant workers, including about 2.9 million from Myanmar, and many don’t know their basic human rights. This lack of knowledge makes it harder to access justice and increases the risk of abuse and exploitation. To address this, FNF Thailand partnered with the Ministry of Justice, the International Labour Organization (ILO), and FAIR to run a two-day workshop for migrant workers and people who support them, with over 60 participants. The workshop taught human rights principles and key migrant-worker laws, and had participants discuss common problems like limited healthcare access and restrictions on freedom. It also used a “Rights Card” tool with simulations and problem-solving exercises, while legal experts provided advice and consultations. The goal was to help participants become leaders who can support and protect others in migrant communities. https://www.freiheit.org/thailand/legal-awareness-training-migrant-worker-helpers-guaranteeing-equal-access-human-rights
Temporary foreign workers had no training, safety equipment before fatal workplace accident in Montreal: report
FEBRUARY 2, 2026
A workplace safety report found that a temporary foreign worker died at a Montreal construction site in 2023 after a wall collapse, and he had no protective equipment or required training. The incident happened during renovations when workers demolished basement walls without realizing they were load-bearing, causing part of the ground floor slab to collapse and crush three workers; two survived with injuries. The CNESST investigation said the demolition was poorly planned and the site lacked basic safety organization, supervision, and information. None of the workers had the mandatory general construction safety training, and most had no proper boots, helmets, gloves, or goggles. The report also noted language barriers for some workers and said the findings would be shared with construction industry groups and relevant consulates to help prevent similar deaths. https://www.ctvnews.ca/montreal/article/temporary-foreign-workers-had-no-training-safety-equipment-before-fatal-workplace-accident-in-montreal-report/
Mushroom workers take fight to Washington Supreme Court
FEBRUARY 2, 2026
On Valentine’s Day 2023, more than 100 workers at Ostrom Mushroom Farms in Washington were fired after the company was sold. They were told they could keep their jobs only if they immediately signed new contracts with lower pay, new roles, and mandatory arbitration clauses. Because it was winter and jobs were scarce, most workers felt forced to agree. Years earlier, workers had raised concerns about unsafe conditions and tried to unionize with the United Farm Workers, but the company refused. The workers later sued, claiming illegal practices and retaliation. The case is now before the Washington Supreme Court, which will decide whether the arbitration agreements were unfairly forced on workers and whether such agreements should limit workers’ rights to go to court. https://nwlaborpress.org/2025/12/mushroom-workers-take-fight-to-washington-supreme-court/
Saudi Arabia signs workers’ rights MoU following year of safety scrutiny
MARCH 2, 2026
Thailand is home to nearly four million migrant workers, most of whom are from Myanmar, and many lack basic knowledge of their legal and human rights, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation. To address this, FNF Thailand partnered with the Ministry of Justice, the International Labour Organization, and FAIR to host a two-day workshop educating workers about human rights, relevant laws, and access to legal support. The program combined lectures with interactive simulations and legal consultations to build practical understanding. The initiative aims to empower participants to become community leaders who can support and defend migrant workers’ rights in Thailand. https://www.healthandsafetyinternational.com/article/1944283/saudi-arabia-signs-workers-rights-mou-following-year-safety-scrutiny
Many Filipino healthcare workers in the US live in fear of ICE: ‘This is my place of work. I should feel safe’
MARCH 2, 2026
The presence of ICE, especially in hospitals and healthcare facilities, has caused environments of anxiety for many healthcare workers. The US healthcare system relies heavily on workers of Filipino descent who fill workforce gaps and care for ailing people. This article follows a caregiver, who identifies as Bella, who went to the US on a tourist visa to take on precarious home healthcare work. She expressed how her critical work has been compromised due to fears for her own safety, due to the presence of ICE.https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/dec/29/filipino-healthcare-workers-immigration-trump
Rising heat, failing kidneys: Climate’s hidden toll on migrant workers
MARCH 2, 2026
When young, healthy workers return home to Nepal from labouring in Qatar, they return with chronic kidney failure, requiring dialysis multiple times a week. Most of the workers require dialysis for the rest of their lives to stay alive. Chronic kidney failure develops as the workers perform hard labour in relentless heat as high as 50 degrees Celsius. The workers go to Qatar to earn money. However, once they develop kidney failure, they are deported back to Nepal and require costly medical treatment to stay alive, creating a vicious cycle of poverty and sickness.
https://inthesetimes.com/article/rising-heat-failing-kidneys-climates-hidden-toll-on-migrant-workers
Forced Labor, Taiwan and the Implications of the US-Malaysia Trade Agreement
MARCH 2, 2026
A new trade deal between Malaysia and the U.S. imposes a new rule requiring Malaysia to ban all imports of electronics made with forced labour within two years. It was seen as a target for China, but it also significantly impacts Taiwan. Taiwan is one of Malaysia’s largest trading partners, but it relies heavily on migrant work through tied work permits and debt bondage. If Taiwan does not change their labour practices, its exports to Malaysia could be blocked, causing pressure on the country to better protect workers. https://thediplomat.com/2025/12/forced-labor-taiwan-and-the-implications-of-the-us-malaysia-trade-agreement/
ICE HIRES IMMIGRANT BOUNTY HUNTERS FROM PRIVATE PRISON COMPANY GEO GROUP
MARCH 2, 2026
ICE hired BI Incorporated, a subsidiary of GEO Group, which is a for-profit detention centre that donated to Trump’s reelection campaign and inauguration fund. Their objective is for corporate investigators to use surveillance products to track the homes and workplaces of immigrants so that federal agents can arrest them. ICE has already paid $1.6 million to BI incorporated, but could pay up to $121 million by 2027. GEO Group is now being paid to both find immigrants and detain them in its centers with allegedly deplorable conditions. https://theintercept.com/2025/12/19/ice-bounty-hunters-location-surveillance-geo-group/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=The%20Intercept%20Newsletter
TEN MIGRANT DOMESTIC WORKERS DIED IN HONG KONG’S INFERNO, THE SURVIVORS STRUGGLE TO GRIEVE
MARCH 2, 2026
Among 160 victims of a deadly residential fire, 10 were migrant domestic workers, many of whom died in refusal to leave their employers. Sri Wahyuni was the sole breadwinner of her family, and her body was found embracing her elderly employer. Another worker, Vame Mariz Wayas Verador, saved a toddler and his grandmother from the fire but was terminated due to the family’s financial hardships. Surviving migrant workers did not have time to grieve, as Hong Kong has a strict two-week rule for terminated workers to return home. Due to this rule, many workers had to quickly find new work, despite experincing significant loss and trauma. The two-week rule demonstrates a clear disregard for migrant workers, the very people who would not leave the employers they cared for until the end. https://globalvoices.org/2025/12/19/ten-migrant-domestic-workers-died-in-hong-kongs-inferno-the-survivors-struggle-to-grieve/
Report reveals workplace failures after foreign worker fatally crushed by concrete
MARCH 2, 2026
In 2023, A temporary foreign worker died in Montreal due to workplace failures after being crushed by a collapsing concrete wall. He was instructed to demolish walls without any protective gear, training, or health and safety measures in effect at the worksite. He was supervised by an unlicensed contractor with no construction expertise. However, the work he performed required a procedure established by a qualified engineer and carried out under the supervision of a competent manager, in accordance with Quebec’s construction safety code.https://montrealgazette.com/news/local-news/report-reveals-workplace-failures-after-foreign-worker-fatally-crushed-by-concrete
Morocco’s female farm workers at the heart of a new Alternatives Agricoles issue
MARCH 2, 2026
This article brings together contributions from academics in Morocco, France, and Tunisia to shed light on the conditions of migrant women, who play an essential role in agricultural production, through first-hand testimonies. The women carve out species of autonomy through networks of solidarity and everyday negotiation in the face of structural constraints. The report also proposed ways to transform politics to strengthen social protection, balance power relations, and better recognize female agricultural workers as contributors to agricultural development. https://en.yabiladi.com/articles/details/183778/morocco-female-farm-workers-heart.html
Why Canadian bosses love hiring foreign workers
MARCH 2, 2026
Large Canadian companies often declare their desperation to hire foreign guest workers. Foreign guest workers are preferred hires, as studies have found that they put in more effort for lower wages than domestic employees. Employers often exploit the government’s openness to low-skilled guest workers, as exemplified by Canadian Tire, which is frequently fined for mistreating offshore workers. Businesses usually cite labour shortage to justify these hires, but reliance on low-wage foreign labour discourages companies from investing in innovation to boost productivity and increases systemic abuses of the LMIA process. https://windsorstar.com/opinion/columnists/opinion-why-canadian-bosses-love-hiring-foreign-workers
Lebanon: Migrant workers exploited under ‘kafala’ system
MARCH 2, 2026
Kafala is an Arabic term meaning “sponsorship” or “guarantee” and refers to a system in which a migrant worker’s legal presence in a country is linked to their employer, who acts as their sponsor. Women from African or Asian countries who labour in Lebanon’s private households are most impacted, as they are excluded from local labour laws, and their sponsors usually confiscate their passports upon arrival. Migrant workers are also subject to discrimination, such as eating at different tables from their host family or not being allowed in pools. Several organizations mobilize and alert the network when a migrant worker is in need to organize accordingly. It not only offers direct help, but also lobbies local politicians to shame and name those involved in the exploitation of migrant workers. https://amp.dw.com/en/migrant-workers-exploited-in-lebanon-under-kafala-system-modern-day-slavery-slaves/a-75204479
CBSA employees involved in 259 founded misconduct cases last year: report
MARCH 2, 2026
Covering investigations between April 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025, CBSA’s first annual misconduct and wrongdoing report found that CBSA employees were embroiled in hundreds of misconduct cases last year. Out of 364 investigations, 71% were found, meaning that an investigator concluded there was enough evidence to support the claim. 259 had to do with “accountability and professional conduct, which amounted to findings such as interfering in immigration processing, or providing false statements. 15 of the founded cases were under the “criminality and/or criminal association, private, off-duty conduct and outside activities” category, involving associating with a known drug trafficker or driving a CBSA vehicle while intoxicated. There were 21 cases of harassment, sexual harassment and discrimination and violence in the workplace. As a result, most employees received additional counselling or an oral or written reprimand and were rarely terminated. https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/cbsa-misconduct-report-9.7021567
Women on the move: FAQs on migration and gender
MARCH 2, 2026
Migration is not neutral, with gender impacting every stage as laws and policies often reinforce existing gender inequalities in countries of origin, transit, and destination. Migration enhances autonomy, and women constitute approximately 41% of migrant workers globally, playing critical roles in addressing ageing populations and labour shortages. While performing these essential roles, workers often lack social or labour protections, with approximately 81% in informal employment. Discrimination against migrant women and gender diverse individuals often becomes more pronounced, making it essential to implement laws and policies that respond to gender-specific needs. https://www.unwomen.org/en/articles/faqs/women-on-the-move-faqs-on-migration-and-gender
Wealthy nations curb labor migration as demand surges
MARCH 2, 2026
A recent report by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development shows that work-related migration to wealthy countries fell by 21% last year, mainly because governments tightened immigration policies despite strong labor shortages. Countries such as the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and the United States introduced stricter visa rules, reducing permanent migration while temporary programs remained more stable. This decline is largely driven by political opposition to immigration rather than reduced economic demand. Experts warn that limiting long-term migration could worsen worker shortages in aging economies and create gaps between political goals and labor market needs. https://www.infomigrants.net/en/post/68788/wealthy-nations-curb-labor-migration-as-demand-surges
These migrants grow the US’s Christmas trees. Trump’s wage cuts may keep them away
MARCH 2, 2026
This article from The Guardian examines how changes to the H-2A temporary farm worker visa program under President Donald Trump are creating uncertainty for Mexican agricultural workers in North Carolina. Although the H-2A program remains essential to U.S. agriculture, new wage rules and stricter immigration policies have left many workers worried about lower pay, increased enforcement, and discrimination. Farmers depend heavily on these workers to sustain industries such as Christmas tree production, but both employers and employees fear labor shortages if conditions worsen. The article highlights the tension between economic reliance on migrant labor and political efforts to restrict immigration. https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/dec/17/christmas-trees-immigrants-farming
Fruit farm workers living in ‘damp’ and ‘unsafe’ caravans
MARCH 2, 2026
This report from BBC Scotland reveals that some seasonal fruit farm workers in Angus are living in damp, overcrowded, and poorly maintained caravans. Workers at JP Gray & Son described cold and unsafe conditions, including mould, leaks, and inadequate space, despite paying weekly rent. The Worker Support Centre argues that stronger enforcement of housing standards under the Housing Scotland Act 1987 is needed, as oversight of worker accommodation is limited. While Angus Growers acknowledged the issues and promised improvements, the situation highlights ongoing concerns about the treatment and living conditions of seasonal migrant workers in the UK. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c989g0dkwxro.amp
Washington Supreme Court to hear Sunnyside mushroom workers’ case
MARCH 2, 2026
The Washington Supreme Court has agreed to hear an appeal in a labor dispute between the United Farm Workers and Windmill Farms in Sunnyside, Washington. The lawsuit alleges that the company interfered with workers’ attempts to unionize and improperly forced them into private arbitration, limiting their access to public courts. Workers also claim violations of state labor laws, including retaliation and licensing failures. The Court’s decision to review the case could have significant statewide implications for farm workers’ rights and the use of mandatory arbitration agreements in Washington. https://www.sunnysidesun.com/news/washington-supreme-court-to-hear-sunnyside-mushroom-workers-case/article_a36152ca-39b2-4c9f-9187-a2fed1c7dc9e.html
Victoria farm accused of underpaying migrant workers over $645,000
MARCH 2, 2026
Australia’s Fair Work Ombudsman has launched legal action against Bulmer Farms in Victoria for allegedly underpaying 28 migrant workers more than $645,000 between 2019 and 2023. The workers, employed under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility scheme, were reportedly paid flat weekly rates despite working overtime, with additional unlawful deductions for expenses such as airfares and accommodation. The regulator claims the farm also breached leave, public holiday, and record-keeping laws. Authorities are seeking full repayment, penalties, and interest, calling the alleged conduct “entirely unacceptable.” https://www.hcamag.com/au/specialisation/employment-law/victoria-farm-accused-of-underpaying-migrant-workers-over-645000/560349
WA labor department investigates claims farmworkers were working through floods
MARCH 2, 2026
The Washington State Department of Labor and Industries is investigating two Skagit Valley farms after allegations that employees continued working during mandatory flood evacuation orders in Burlington. Officials stated that conditions under evacuation orders are unsafe and that workers have the legal right to refuse dangerous work. An advocate from Community to Community reported seeing farmworkers operating machinery in flooded fields, raising concerns about worker safety during extreme weather. The investigation will determine whether labor protections were violated amid the emergency conditions. https://www.kuow.org/stories/wa-labor-department-investigates-claims-farmworkers-were-working-through-floods
Decades-old study on common weed killer retracted after journal editor says Monsanto may have helped write it
MARCH 3, 2026
25-year-old study claiming that glyphosate, the main ingredient in Roundup, is safe for humans was retracted after evidence suggested Monsanto may have helped write it without disclosure. The paper had influenced regulatory decisions, but Health Canada says its approval of glyphosate is still based on a much larger body of research. Environmental groups argue the retraction raises serious concerns and want the chemical reviewed or temporarily restricted. Glyphosate remains the most widely used pesticide in Canada, with about 50 million kilograms sold each year. Some scientists say the retraction shows the need to reassess potential health risks as new evidence emerges. https://www.cbc.ca/news/health/glyphosate-retraction-9.7004363
Guest Worker Schemes Are a Machine for Labor Exploitation
MARCH 3, 2026
European countries that promise to reduce immigration are expanding short-term guest worker programs to fill labour shortages in sectors like farming and tourism. Critics argue these schemes treat migrant workers as temporary labour with few rights, making them vulnerable to exploitation and insecure working conditions. Governments support the programs because they provide cheap, flexible labour without allowing workers to settle permanently. The system reflects a long history of using migrant workers as disposable labour while limiting their legal protections. Supporters say the programs address economic needs, but critics warn they create unfair and unequal conditions for migrant workers. https://jacobin.com/2025/12/guest-worker-schemes-labor-exploitation
Farmworkers Are Frequently Exploited. But Few Farms Participate in a Program That Experts Say Could Prevent Abuse.
MARCH 3, 2026
Farmworkers in the U.S. often face exploitation such as low pay, unsafe conditions, and abuse, but a program called the Fair Food Program has shown it can improve working conditions and prevent harm. The program requires farms to follow strict labor standards and gives workers a safe way to report problems. One company, Pacific Tomato Growers, improved worker treatment and even benefited financially after joining. Despite its success, most farms have not adopted the program due to costs and lack of pressure from major buyers. Experts say expanding the program could significantly reduce exploitation in agriculture. https://www.propublica.org/article/fair-food-program-farmworker-abuse-exploitation
