Summarised by Centrist
NZ First’s push to remove diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) mandates from the public service has been slammed by the NZ Herald as a pointless culture war imported from the US.
The editorial argues the bill is unnecessary, politically motivated, and ignores real issues like the economy, cost of living, and healthcare shortages.
Peters claims the bill will “put an end to woke left-wing social engineering” and ensure hiring is based on merit, not identity politics. However, critics point out that NZ First previously voted in favour of the same DEI policies it now opposes, with then-deputy leader Fletcher Tabuteau supporting them in 2020 as a way to create a “modern, agile, and adaptive public service.”
Business leaders, including Global Women CEO Katie Bhreatnach, argue that DEI strengthens workplaces, rather than undermining them. She claims that corporate New Zealand is doubling down on diversity, seeing it as a strategic advantage rather than a compliance burden.
The editorial concludes that New Zealand should focus on real issues—not follow the US into a divisive cultural battle. “It might be better if this bill stays in the tin,” the editors write.
Read more over at The NZ Herald (paywalled)
