US EditionUN Report Flags Concerns Over New Zealand’s Māori Rights Policies
The UN committee warned that government reforms risk worsening systemic disparities and weakening protections for Māori, who make up 17% of New Zealand’s population, the report said.
- On December 5, the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination released a 14-page report warning that New Zealand’s policies threaten Māori rights and may weaken legal protections, CERD said.
- Following an eight-year review, CERD found this cycle "finds virtually no positive steps on Māori rights or racial equity" and noted New Zealand last year shut down Te Aka Whai Ora without Māori consent.
- The committee urged specific remedies including rejecting military-style boot camps in the Amendment Bill, restoring Section 7AA of the Oranga Tamariki Act, revitalising the Māori Health Authority, and strengthening the New Zealand Human Rights Commission.
- Māori leaders responded sharply, with Lady Tureiti Moxon stating, `CERD is clear: New Zealand is moving backwards on racial equality, and Māori rights are under serious threat`, while Tama Potaka denied dismantling Treaty-based frameworks as MPs like Teanau Tuiono pressed ministers.
- On broader risks, CERD highlighted the lack of a National Action Plan Against Racism, urged accelerating the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Christchurch attacks' recommendations, and called for stronger measures against far-right and white supremacist groups.
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