New appointments to the Human Rights Commission

Distinguished human rights advocate and lawyer Professor Paul Hunt has been appointed as Chief Human Rights Commissioner, Justice Minister Andrew Little announced today.

Mr Little also announced the appointment of Dr Saunoamaali’i Karanina Sumeo as Equal Employment Opportunities Commissioner.

Professor Hunt joins the Human Rights Commission from Essex University in Britain, but had previously served with the United Nations in several roles, including as a special rapporteur, while Dr Sumeo joins the Commission from Oranga Tamariki.

“I would like to congratulate both commissioners on their appointments within the Humans Rights Commission. Each commissioner brings a wealth of experience in improving human rights both nationally and abroad.

“Their experience, leadership and fresh perspective stood out amongst some distinguished applicants, and are deemed to be the best candidates to take the Commission forward.”

“Professor Hunt will lead the continued implementation of Judge Coral Shaw’s recommendations in improving the internal processes within the Commission.

“The Commission plays a vital role in holding the government to account on its human rights record. It provides guidance on improving fairness, freedom, rights and dignity.

“I look forward to working with both the Chief Human Rights Commissioner and the Equal Employment Opportunities Commissioner to tackle some of the most pressing issues facing New Zealanders.

Mr Little also thanked Paula Tesoriero for leading the Commission as Acting Chief Commissioner after David Rutherford resigned in May.

“Ms Tesoriero will return to her substantive role as Disability Rights Commissioner when Professor Hunt takes up his new position. I also want to thank retiring Equal Employment Opportunities Commissioner Dr Jackie Blue for her service,” said Mr Little.

The final vacant Commissioner position will be filled in the coming weeks. The process and panels used to appoint Commissioners is independent and complies with the Paris Principles. The leaders of all political parties represented in Parliament were consulted.

Media Notes:

Professor Hunt will be available for interviews this evening New Zealand time. Acting Chief Commissioner Paula Tesoriero is available for interviews from 2.30pm, under embargo until 4.30pm.

Biography:
Professor Paul Hunt teaches law and human rights at Essex University, England. Professor Hunt’s human rights experience encompasses civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights. He has worked with organisations such as the World Health Organisation and the United Nations, touching on issues such as health and improving economic, social, and cultural rights. He has served on the UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (1999-2002) and as a Special Rapporteur to the UN Commission on Human Rights (2002-2008). He has been admitted as a solicitor in England and Wales and holds a Master of Jurisprudence from the University of Waikato and an honorary doctorate from the Nordic School of Public Health.

Dr Saunoamaali’i Karanina Sumeo is a Principal Policy Advisor at Oranga Tamariki, working to improve outcomes for Pacific Children and Families. Dr Sumeo’s previous experience within the public sector includes roles with the Ministry of Social Development, Ministry of Pacific Island Affairs and the Tertiary Education Commission. Her professional and academic background has advocated for the promotion of economic development, social, and employment interests of marginalised groups particularly women, Pacific Peoples, learners and young people. Dr Sumeo holds qualifications in social work, social policy, mediation and science, including PhD in public policy from AUT University.

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