Recent research commissioned by the Helen Clark
Foundation raises serious concern for social cohesion in
Aotearoa. This research is not alone, with other reports
raising similar issues, including a 2024
survey carried out by the OECD that reported only 44% of
New Zealanders believed that the political system allowed
people like them to have a say in what Government
does.
These reports are part of a broader concerning
context. This includes actions by Government showing a
disregard for a fundamental part of our constitutional
make-up – Te Tiriti. Many communities are facing deeply
disturbing attacks, as recently highlighted by the violence
encountered at Pride. We’re seeing accountability and
transparency challenged through issues like an increased use
of urgency by successive Governments and ongoing serious
problems with the Official Information Act, to name a
few.
Community plays an important role when it comes
to connection and belonging. Aotearoa New Zealand’s many
community groups create spaces for people to come together,
connect and collectively work to better their communities
and broader society. However, so many community groups that
can provide these spaces are reporting serious financial
strain. Additionally, many people participating in these
community groups have suffered personal consequences as a
result.
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Lisa Woods, Movement Building and
Advocacy Director for Amnesty International Aotearoa New
Zealand, said, “For so long now we’ve been hearing from
people who have faced serious attacks because they tried to
stand up for human rights and contribute to societal
conversations. People are having to take a step back from
participating as a result.
“These are not
signs of a healthy, thriving democracy. In fact, this is a
risk to human rights across the board,” said Woods.
It
is clear action is required in a number of areas. This
starts with getting our foundation right.
Jacqui
Dillon, Executive Director of Amnesty International Aotearoa
New Zealand, said, “Step one for Aotearoa New Zealand is
upholding Te Tiriti and the tino rangatiratanga it
guarantees.
“In doing so we can build a strong
foundation that provides a place for us all to belong, for
respectful relationships to flourish and a just foundation
for how we can make decisions together,” said
Dillon.
The Government must recognise there is a
problem and work in partnership with communities to explore
how we can strengthen our society. For example, how can
people and communities be more empowered to influence policy
and have a say over their future. This is especially
important when it comes to people who will be most impacted
by an issue.
Decision-makers need to consider who
needs to be around the table at the earliest stages of
policy development and think more creatively about how the
policy process can work to truly empower people and
communities.
“When our systems are designed so we can
all make a meaningful contribution, we can all benefit in so
many ways, including more well-rounded and informed
decision-making, stronger communities and feelings of
belonging and connection.
“Our democracy is stronger
when there’s space for everyone to take part
meaningfully,” said
Dillon.
