20 August 2013

Maori Party calls for consistency in NZ’s condemnation of violence

The Maori Party is calling for consistency in New Zealand’s condemnation of violence and torture around the world.

“We are opposed to torture and violence in any nation. We take seriously our responsibility, first and foremost, to ensure that violence of any form is de-normalised in our homes, on our streets, and in our communities,” says Tariana Turia, co-leader of the Maori Party. 

“If we all championed an approach to prevent and address violence across our communities then we could proudly act as an example within the global community,” says Mrs Turia.

“From time to time this Parliament relishes the opportunity to make notices of motion and condemn particular nations like Fiji or Egypt.”

"Our position has always been that we must be consistent.  Before we point the finger at others, we must ensure that our own house is in order.   And we should resist the temptation to condemn some nations and ignore abuses in others.”

“In 2010, New Zealand signed up to the Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous peoples.  That declaration includes the collective right of ‘Indigenous peoples to live in freedom, peace and security as distinct peoples and not be subjected to any act of genocide or any other act of violence, including forcibly removing children of the group to another group.’  (Article7).   It also requires that ‘Indigenous peoples and individuals have the right not to be subjected to forced assimilation or destruction of their culture.’ (Article 8).

“It will be a great day, when our Parliament comes together to issue statements of condemnation against these forms of violence, which continue against indigenous communities around the world right to this day including Aotearoa.”

ENDS

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