Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Invisible Children: New Zealand's Undocumented Youth Struggle

6/6/2025

40 8

Summary

Story summary

In New Zealand, the 2006 Citizenship Amendment Act has rendered many children of overstayers undocumented, forming a group dubbed 'the invisible children.' Immigration lawyer Alastair McClymont emphasizes their plight, as they struggle with limited access to education and job opportunities. Critics condemn this punishment as morally unjust, fearing it only perpetuates the cycle of hardship.

1 of 1

Story summary

In New Zealand, the 2006 Citizenship Amendment Act has rendered many children of overstayers undocumented, forming a group dubbed 'the invisible children.' Immigration lawyer Alastair McClymont emphasizes their plight, as they struggle with limited access to education and job opportunities. Critics condemn this punishment as morally unjust, fearing it only perpetuates the cycle of hardship.