Grant Robertson
Associate Foreign Affairs spokesperson

1 April 2009 Media Statement

Backwards step for independent foreign policy

The Government’s decision to drop New Zealand’s bid for election to the Human Rights Council marks a step backwards for our independent foreign policy stance, says Labour’s Associate Foreign Affairs spokesman Grant Robertson.

“The decision marks a sad day for the Pacific as New Zealand was the first country from the region to stand for a position on this United Nations council and its election would have provided an important Pacific voice. Indeed New Zealand has campaigned for the position on this basis.

“Foreign Affairs Minister Murray McCully has long made his distain for the United Nations, and this council in particular, evident. His announcement today is really about using the US interest as an excuse to take New Zealand out of the debate on international human rights,” says Grant Robertson.

“Mr McCully claims that New Zealand has withdrawn its candidacy to clear the way for the election of the United States to the Council.

“While we welcome and respect the new United States interest in the Council, it cannot act as a proxy for New Zealand’s and the Pacific’s views and interests. It does not have New Zealand’s track record when it comes to working with Pacific nations to protect and advance human rights in the region,” said Grant Robertson.

“New Zealand has a distinct and independent voice which has enabled it to punch above its weight internationally. Labour believes this voice should be preserved, not sidelined.

“New Zealand played an active role in setting up the Human Rights Council and Labour believes our country has a role to play in ensuring the Council reaches its full potential.

“We have a long history of ground-breaking legislation which advances human rights, such as being the first country to give women the vote.

“Taking New Zealand out of contention for this body is a backward step for our international reputation,” says Grant Robertson.

ENDS

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