This poem, written by Yudi Wahyu, illustrates the hope and collaborative spirit that anchors the volume. In 2023, researchers from Indonesia and Australia came together to commence world-first research into the intersections between forced labour, migration and climate change. The impacts of climate change are felt globally, and international collaboration is key to addressing transnational social impacts such as migration and exacerbated impacts of violence. Research plays a pivotal role in ensuring that mitigation and adaptation measures are evidence-based, as well as suited to the needs of local communities. The recognition that international research partnerships are required to ensure global change has seen the growth of funding schemes that aim to unite researchers across borders with a shared purpose. The Koneksi knowledge partnership platform connects Australian and Indonesian organisations and supports innovative responses to climate change. Taken from the Bahasa Indonesia word for connection, the scheme aims to support equitable and sustainable knowledge transfer between Australia and Indonesia. The Koneksi scheme supported the research presented in this volume and was the catalyst for the partnership that has grown amongst the authors.