This article discusses the atlas NetworkS influence in New Zealand politics, notably concerning the Treaty of Waitangi and the involvement of political figures like David Seymour. Here’s a summary of the key points:
Atlas Network‘s Presence in New Zealand: The Atlas Network,a US-based organization promoting free-market principles,has partner organizations in New Zealand,including the New Zealand Initiative and the Taxpayers’ Union. Funding and Ideology: The Atlas network claims too be funded by those who “favor liberty” and denies significant funding from extractive industries.partner organizations in New Zealand advocate for smaller government and free-market reforms. Treaty Principles Bill Controversy: The article highlights the controversy surrounding the treaty Principles Bill, which aimed to reinterpret New Zealand’s founding document, the Treaty of Waitangi.
Debbie Ngarewa-Packer’s Allegations: Māori Party co-leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer accused ACT Party leader David Seymour of following an “Atlas narrative” in pushing the bill.
David Seymour’s Connection: David Seymour, who will become New Zealand’s deputy prime minister, has a history wiht the Atlas Network, including training and work with a Canadian partner organization. He did not respond to requests for comment.
Debbi Gibbs‘s Perspective: Former chair of Atlas Network, Debbi Gibbs, acknowledged Seymour’s past involvement but denied any current official connection between the organization and any political party in New Zealand.
* Increased Scrutiny of Lobbying: Political scientists note a growing concern in New Zealand regarding openness, corruption, and vested interests in politics, partly due to light lobbying regulations.
The Atlas Network’s Influence on New Zealand Politics: An Expert’s Outlook
Time.news is committed to providing in-depth analysis of the forces shaping New Zealand politics. Recently, the Atlas Network, a US-based institution promoting free-market principles, has come under scrutiny for its potential influence in Aotearoa. To unpack this complex issue, we spoke with Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading political scientist specializing in lobbying and political influence in New Zealand.
Time.news Editor: Dr. Sharma, thank you for joining us. The Atlas Network seems to be generating quite a bit of discussion lately, particularly in relation to the Treaty Principles Bill. Can you give our readers a brief overview of the Atlas Network and its presence in New Zealand?
Dr.Anya Sharma: Absolutely. The Atlas Network is a global network of think tanks that advocate for free-market policies.They operate by supporting and connecting these think tanks, providing resources and a platform for sharing ideas. In New Zealand, they have several partner organizations, most notably the New Zealand Initiative and the Taxpayers’ Union. These organizations promote ideas like smaller government and deregulation, which align with the Atlas Network’s overall ideology.
Time.news Editor: The article mentions that the Atlas Network claims to be funded by those who “favor liberty.” is there more we should know about their funding?
Dr. Anya Sharma: Transparency in funding is always a key concern when we discuss organizations that seek to influence policy. The Atlas Network denies notable funding from extractive industries,but it’s important to look at the wider picture of where the money is coming from and what interests those donors might have. Sadly,pinpointing the exact sources of funding is often challenging.
Time.news Editor: The Treaty Principles bill has become a focal point in this discussion. Can you explain the connection between the Atlas Network and the controversy surrounding this bill?
Dr. Anya Sharma: The connection is primarily thru the perceived alignment of the bill’s goals with the free-market ideology championed by the Atlas Network and its partners.Māori Party co-leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer publicly accused ACT party leader David Seymour of following an “Atlas narrative” in pushing the bill. This highlights the perception that the bill’s intent to reinterpret the Treaty of Waitangi aligns with the Atlas Network’s broader push for smaller government and reduced regulation.
Time.news Editor: David Seymour’s involvement is particularly engaging, given his past connection to the Atlas Network.What do we know about his relationship with the organization?
Dr.Anya Sharma: Mr. Seymour has a history with the atlas Network,including training and work with a Canadian partner organization.While former Atlas Network chair Debbi Gibbs acknowledges this past involvement, she denies any current official connection between the organization and any political party in New Zealand. Regardless, this past connection raises questions about potential influence and alignment of ideologies. It is indeed also worth noting that his office declined to comment for the article that brought this issue to light.
Time.news editor: So, even if there’s no official connection, the perception of influence remains?
Dr. Anya Sharma: Precisely. The perception of influence is frequently enough as critically important as the reality. When a prominent political figure has a history with an organization that promotes a specific ideology, it’s natural for people to question whether that ideology is influencing their policy decisions.
Time.news Editor: What are the broader implications of the Atlas Network’s presence and activities in New Zealand?
Dr. Anya Sharma: The key takeaway is the increasing scrutiny of lobbying and vested interests in New Zealand politics. Our lobbying regulations are relatively light compared to other developed nations, leading to concerns about openness and potential corruption. The Atlas Network’s activities highlight the need for greater transparency and accountability in the political process.
Time.news Editor: What practical advice would you give to our readers who are concerned about these issues?
Dr. Anya Sharma: Stay informed and engaged. Do your research. Understand the different perspectives on these issues. Support organizations that promote transparency and accountability in government. And most importantly, make your voice heard. Contact your elected officials and let them know that you expect them to act in the best interests of all New Zealanders. The Daily Blog has suggested the public needs to “resist this slide to corporate fascism” [[3]].
Time.news Editor: Dr. Sharma, thank you for your insightful analysis. It’s clear that the Atlas Network’s influence in New Zealand politics is a complex issue with far-reaching implications, especially considering a recent NZ Media Council ruling on fairness [[2]]. We appreciate you shedding light on this important topic.