Public Meeting Thu, 29 Feb 2024 7:30pm – 9:00pm Unite Union, 486 New North Road, Kingsland

For how much longer will we allow inequality to increase while war is waged on the poor? After having lived through a global pandemic, what will it take for the current government to realize that in order for us all to be safe we need to care for the most vulnerable? 

The new rules and sanctions on beneficiaries introduced by Luxon have faced widespread criticism including from Dr. Huhana Hickey, a prominent disability rights advocate and academic. Some of the key issues that we will see as these changes are introduced are increased stigmatization, discrimination and lack of essential support for beneficiaries. Advocates argue that the new rules further stigmatize and dehumanize individuals who rely on government assistance. By imposing strict work obligations and sanctions, the system reinforces negative stereotypes about welfare recipients and overlooks the complex barriers they face in accessing employment and economic opportunities. 

 Concerns have been raised that the new rules disproportionately impact groups that already face many barriers to getting their needs met, including disabled individuals, some Maori communities, and those with mental health challenges and even cancer patients. The one-size-fits-all approach fails to account for the diverse needs and circumstances of beneficiaries, leading to discrimination and exacerbating social inequalities. Their voices need to be heard and not drowned out by the most privileged amongst us.  

 Focusing on sanctions and compliance overlooks the need for comprehensive support services and resources to help beneficiaries overcome barriers to employment and financial stability. Without adequate assistance, individuals will find it very difficult to meet the new requirements and face increased financial hardship and insecurity. This leads to further disempowerment  and stress for those who are already struggling.  

 Some critics, including Dr. Huhana Hickey, have raised concerns that the new rules for beneficiaries may violate human rights principles, including the right to live in dignity and free from discrimination. By imposing punitive measures on vulnerable individuals, the system fails to uphold fundamental rights and dignity for all members of society. 

Knowing the impact that the new rules for beneficiaries spearheaded by the incoming government will have, highlights the need for a more inclusive, rights-based approach to welfare reform that prioritizes support, empowerment, and social justice for all individuals, especially those facing multiple barriers and challenges. 

People are already being disabled by societal structures under capitalism and individualistic attitudes. What is required now are strategies to develop collective consciousness so that collective action between disabled people and other oppressed groups can be taken to fight back against the National/ Act/NZ First government’s retrogression to a punitive approach towards those receiving benefits.  

We have seen the results of these neoliberal approaches to welfare both here and overseas in places like the UK, where focusing solely on the  removal of barriers to paid work can lead to businesses gaining additional advantages and extracting value from poorly paid workers. Punitive approaches also have a detrimental effect on those living with mental health issues which is a significant number of beneficiaries. It is past time to end the war on the poor and to instead focus on reducing inequality now.  

Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84164013064