CURRENT ISSUES

RIP Ken Douglas

“Deeply saddened by news of death of Ken Douglas, a member of the Order of New Zealand who advocated for the rights, wages and conditions of workers throughout his life. He was unfailingly helpful to me in my role as Leader of New Zealand Labour over 15 years. RIP Ken.”

Museum of Modern Art plans to auction some of its art

“Concerned to read of "plans to auction off trove of masterpieces long lent to New York’s Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) for at least $70 million this fall to expand museum’s digital footprint". Will they go to private collections inaccessible to public? If so, huge loss.”

New Zealand as constitutional monarchy

Helen Clark in a short conversation with CNN’s Becky Anderson on New Zealand’s status as a constitutional monarchy.

Terrorism in Burkina Faso continues

“Disturbing to see terrorism continue to take its toll of lives in Burkina Faso where 40%+ of the country is said to be outside government control. I traveled to the country's Sahara region in 2016; development needs are great, but development needs peace.

“My 2016 visit was in more hopeful times. A democratic transition had occurred and terrorism was not established in the country. Since then, a military junta has assumed power. Elections are now not expected until 2025.”

Conflict in Tigray

“Despite renewal of deadly conflict in Tigray between its forces, those of Ethiopian Government, its regional allies, and Eritrean forces, UN Security Council may delay today's proposed discussion on it. UNSC must endeavour to end this devastating conflict.” Here an interesting article from International Crisis Group.

Constitutional reform in Chile

“Where now for constitutional reform in Chile? In 2020 80% of Chileans voted in favour of replacing the current constitution, but the proposal just voted on lost 62 - 38. Back to the drawing boards to negotiate document a majority can agree with?” Check out this article in Time.

Check out my Twitter page for more information and links on these issues.

Queen Elizabeth II

My Tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

8 September

“A sad day as the world mourns the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, who just this year marked 70 years on the throne. Her life was one of exemplary service, dignity and commitment to her role as monarch and as Head of the Commonwealth. May Queen Elizabeth rest in peace.” Listen to my tribute on BBC Newsday.

“Reflecting on the life of Her Majesty the Queen with Kathryn Ryan on RZN Nine to Noon.” Listen to the programme here.

upcoming events

Live-stream “Required: Political Leadership to Pandemic Proof the World”

21 September

On Wednesday, 21 September, 2 - 4 PM EST (6 - 8 AM NZT, 7-9 PM UK) I will be speaking at the United Nations General Assembly’s side event. We will focus on discussing political leadership needed to address pandemics and other global health threats. The panel also includes Jacinda Ardern and Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, my co-chair at the Independent Panel for Pandemic Preparedness and Response (IPPR).

OP ED

Time for New Zealand to lead again – on drug policy

“Prohibition doesn't work either in reducing the demand for or the supply of drugs. It actually causes serious harm, not least as criminalisation further stigmatises people and worsens downward cycles of addiction”, and that “It's pointless and costly to lock people who use the drug into cycles of addiction and incarceration”. Check out my op ed on the New Zealand Drug Foundation and the Helen Clark Foundation report which advocates evidence-based approaches to addressing use of methamphetamine in New Zealand.

Podcast

Club de Madrid commemorates International Day of Democracy with a conversation

As a starting point for the upcoming Club de Madrid Annual Policy Dialogue “Leading in a World of Converging Crises” I am discussing the current state of democracies with El Orden Mundial, an international affairs online magazine.

THE LATEST FROM THE HELEN CLARK FOUNDATION

50th anniversary of the Māori language petition

12 - 18 September

Ngā mihi o te Wiki o Te Reo Māori! 14 September marks 50 years since Te Petihana Reo Māori (the Māori language petition) was presented to Parliament, kickstarting a major revival of he taonga te reo. Check out Reo Māori for more information.

New report on improving harm reduction approaches to methamphetamine in New Zealand

The New Zealand Drug Foundation and the Helen Clark Foundation have jointly commissioned and released a new report which shows that New Zealand’s approach to methamphetamine needs a thorough overhaul, with existing policies both failing the community and causing significant harm. It makes recommendations on how New Zealand can do better on harm reduction. Read the report here.

Why not support The Helen Clark Foundation and have your say on ideas we support.