August 14, 2017
UN prepares to grill NZ government
New Zealand's performance on racism and human rights comes under scrutiny this week at the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination in Geneva.
As well as holding two three-hour sessions with government representatives, the committee will take into account reports from the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions, Action for Children & Youth Aotearoa, Peace Movement Aotearoa, Save Our Unique Landscape and other non-government organisations.
Examples of where the Government has fallen down on compliance include the New Plymouth District Council (Waitara Lands) Bill, Ihumatao and the Special Housing Area in Mangere, the Kermadec Ocean Sanctuary, deep-sea oil seismic exploration and drilling, and the Marine and Coastal Area (Takutai Moana) Act 2011;
There are also concerns around the care and protection of Maori children, the treatment of Maori children in state care, and access to education, health services and a minimum standard of living for Maori and Pasifika children;
Some submitters has also alleged institutional racism and structural discrimination in the administration of justice, employment, and the health system.
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