In November 2024, the International Organization for Migration released a report exploring labour migration amid climate action, including how labour migration can respond to labour market needs for a just transition, and the role labour migration can play in adapting to climate change.

The report gives examples of frameworks and schemes available to support labour migration in the context of climate change, including those targeting the green transition or responding to climate-impacts.

The report highlights the risk of exploitation where labour migration without ethical recruitment or adequate labour standards are not in place. It emphasises how disaster settings increase the risk of migrant workers being subject to trafficking or abuse, shedding light on how climate change and environmental degradation catalyse existing vulnerabilities, particularly impacting undocumented migrants and other marginalised groups. The report explores the concept of ‘maladaptation’, where labour migration can increase workers’ and their families’ vulnerability to climate hazards. It argues decent work and suitable protection measures are needed.

The report also explores the opportunities of labour migration in the context of climate change adaptation and mitigation.

The report also provides key recommendations. This includes recommendations on the protection and prevention of exploitation, such as strengthening regulations and protections, improving and ensuring ethical recruitment, requiring employer human rights due diligence, and extending systems of remedy, among other recommendations.