Structural discrimination in New Zealand

Structural discrimination (also known as structural inequality, systemic discrimination, and institutional racism) occurs in a society "when an entire network of rules and practices disadvantages less empowered groups while serving at the same time to advantage the dominant group".[1]

The Human Rights Commission in New Zealand have asserted that there is strong, consistent evidence that structural discrimination is a real and ongoing issue in the country.[2] The commission has acknowledged the importance of addressing institutional barriers within New Zealand's social institutions, stating that these barriers help to create social inequalities which in turn limit the access to and fulfillment of New Zealand's human rights obligations.[3]

In the New Zealand Department of Social Welfare's (1988) Report, Puao-te-Ata-tu, it was noted that structural discrimination is “the most insidious and destructive form of racism.”[4] The Report found that the negative effects of structural discrimination were wide reaching and inter-generational and primarily disadvantaged New Zealand's most vulnerable groups.[5] Joris de Bres, New Zealand's Race Relations Commissioner from 2002 to 2013, stated that the systems and processes in New Zealand public services are not sufficiently sensitive to the diversity of its population.[6] He argued that addressing structural discrimination is vitally important for New Zealand as currently structural disadvantage is being perpetuated with Māori, Pasifika, and ethnic minorities not getting equal outcomes through their access and interaction with public service bodies.[6]

  1. ^ EEO Policy to 2010: Future Directions of EEO in the New Zealand Public Service. State Services Commission. 1997. p. 11. Embedded in Official Information Request OIA 2023-0015.
  2. ^ Human Rights Commission 2012, p. 50.
  3. ^ Human Rights Commission 2012.
  4. ^ [1] Department of Social Welfare (1988) Report, Puao-te-atu-tu (Daybreak), at 18.
  5. ^ [2] Department of Social Welfare (1988) Report, Puao-te-atu-tu (Daybreak).
  6. ^ a b "Structural discrimination still needs work - Human Rights Commission". Newshub. 20 August 2012. Retrieved 5 May 2023.

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