A recent article by FairWork highlights how undocumented migrants in the Netherlands are portrayed — often as either powerless victims or faceless policy issues. Based on findings from the I-CLAIM report on irregular migration in the Netherlands, the study shows stark differences in language used by politicians, media, and civil society. While the government tends to speak in terms of control and asylum rejection, NGOs focus on vulnerability and human dignity.

Strikingly, little attention is given to undocumented people as workers. Talking about work is still taboo — even though many are employed under exploitative conditions. FairWork warns: if we can’t talk about their labor, we can’t address abuses or fight for their rights.

The article calls for a more balanced, humane narrative — one that recognizes both the challenges and contributions of undocumented people.