Human rights & International rules-based order

Human rights are the basis for any solid democracy
© Dutch embassy Wellington 

The protection and promotion of human rights, the democratic constitutional state and the international legal order are the core of the foreign policy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and a well-understood self-interest. Around the globe, we dedicate ourselves to protecting and promoting these values and that makes the Netherlands and Aotearoa New Zealand natural partners: both have strong values incorporated in its foreign policy, with a focus on human rights, democracy and international rule of law. You can read more on the Dutch policy here

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Promoting Equal Rights for LGBTI+ People in the Pacific

SOGIESC assistance agreement NL and NZ

In the Pacific region the Netherlands focuses on the promotion of human rights for LGBTI+. Together with Aotearoa New Zealand the Netherlands provides multiannual funding to the Pacific Sexual and Gender Diversity Network (PSGDN) Both the Netherlands and New Zealand champion and promote equal rights for persons of diverse sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and sex characteristics (SOGIESC) across the region.

In partnering with PSGDN, both Governments acknowledge the challenges involved in protecting and advancing SOGIESC-related rights in the Pacific. This support will help strengthen the capacity of local SOGIESC-related rights organizations, empower Pacific Islanders of diverse SOGIESC to have a voice in decision-making, and  address discrimination in law and practice.  

LGBTQI+promotion event residence of ambassador

The Embassy further promotes human rights of LGBTI+ in the Pacific by increasing knowledge among local activists on the international human rights system and building a regional LGBTI+ network, including by supporting Pacific Islands activists to attend the ILGA Oceania Regional Conference in the region.. 

In Aotearoa New Zealand the Embassy is a participant in the local Pride parade in Wellington and organised numerous events to promote and raise awareness about human rights of LGBTI+ including film screenings and panel discussions.