What's happened
On November 19, 2024, over 35,000 demonstrators marched in Wellington against a proposed bill that seeks to redefine the Treaty of Waitangi. The protest, part of a nine-day hikoi, highlighted widespread opposition to perceived threats to Māori rights and identity under the current government.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to the BBC, the hikoi was one of the largest in New Zealand's history, with participants chanting 'kill the bill' as they marched. The Independent reported that the bill lacks sufficient support to pass, yet its introduction has ignited widespread protests. The New York Times highlighted the government's rightward shift, contrasting it with the previous administration's progressive policies. The South China Morning Post noted that the protests were peaceful yet powerful, showcasing a united front against perceived injustices. Overall, the coverage illustrates a significant moment in New Zealand's political landscape, emphasizing the importance of the Treaty of Waitangi in contemporary society.
How we got here
The proposed Treaty Principles Bill, introduced by the ACT party, aims to reinterpret the Treaty of Waitangi, a foundational document for Māori rights in New Zealand. This has sparked significant backlash, culminating in one of the largest protests in the country's history.
Common question
-
What Are the Protests Against the Treaty Bill in New Zealand About?
On November 19, 2024, New Zealand witnessed one of its largest protests in history, with over 35,000 demonstrators marching in Wellington against a proposed Treaty Bill. This movement has raised significant questions about Māori rights and the implications of the government's actions. Below, we explore the main concerns of the protesters, the historical context, and the broader implications for indigenous rights in New Zealand.
-
What Are the Recent Global Protests and Their Significance?
Recent global protests, including the massive demonstrations in New Zealand against the proposed Treaty Principles Bill, highlight significant social issues and the role of public sentiment in shaping political landscapes. These movements reflect a growing discontent with government policies and the importance of social justice. Below, we explore key questions surrounding these protests and their broader implications.
More on these topics
-
Māori are the indigenous Polynesian people of mainland New Zealand. Māori originated with settlers from East Polynesia, who arrived in New Zealand in several waves of canoe voyages between roughly 1320 and 1350.
-
The Treaty of Waitangi is a treaty first signed on 6 February 1840 by representatives of the British Crown and Māori chiefs from the North Island of New Zealand.
-
Christopher Luxon is a New Zealand businessman and politician of the New Zealand National Party. He is the former chief executive officer of Air New Zealand and was elected MP for Botany in the 2020 New Zealand general election.
-
New Zealand is an island country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It comprises two main landmasses—the North Island and the South Island —and around 600 smaller islands, covering a total area of 268,021 square kilometres.
-
Wellington is the capital city of New Zealand. It is located at the south-western tip of the North Island, between Cook Strait and the Remutaka Range.
-
David Breen Seymour is a New Zealand politician serving as the Member of Parliament for Epsom and Leader of ACT New Zealand since 2014.