‘Grubby’ treaty principles bill voted down in New Zealand parliament
GuardianAPR 8
New Zealand's Parliament Rejects Treaty Principles Bill
Above: Maori community members and their supporters participate in a protest outside the parliament in Wellington on Nov. 19, 2024. Image copyright: Sanka Vidanagama/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Conservative narrative
The current system has created different rights and privileges based on race, which undermines social cohesion. The bill was necessary to establish clear, democratically defined treaty principles rather than relying on court interpretations, ensuring equal rights for all New Zealanders regardless of ancestry.
Progressive narrative
This legislation was a stain on New Zealand, and it would have severely undermined Māori rights developed through courts. Rather than creating division, the overwhelming opposition to the bill demonstrated that New Zealanders stand united in supporting the Treaty's principles and indigenous rights.