Specific Initiatives of 2023: A Focus on Transformation In 2023, we embarked on transformative initiatives that hold profound significance for our nation: • National Action Plan Against Racism (NAPAR): Under the Government's NAPAR, we engaged with communities to understand their experiences of racism. Through extensive consultations and online submissions, we gained valuable insights into the challenges faced by many. In February 2023, we released the "Ki te whaiao, ki te ao Mārama" community engagement report, providing a comprehensive overview of the racism experienced today and aspirations for a racism-free Aotearoa New Zealand. Simultaneously, we launched "Maranga Mai!", a document chronicling the impacts of colonisation, racism, and white supremacy on Tangata Whenua over the past 180 years. Together, these reports offer recommendations for the government to combat racism, emphasising constitutional transformation, co-governance, and education as tools for change. • Rongomau Taketake Appointment: In March 2023, we appointed Professor Claire Charters as Rongomau Taketake (Indigenous Rights Governance Partner), a significant milestone in our journey towards Indigenous Peoples' rights. This appointment reflects our commitment to aligning our decisionmaking structures with Te Tiriti o Waitangi. The Rongomau Taketake will play a pivotal role in building relationships, promoting understanding, and ensuring ongoing Tangata Whenua representation at the governance level. principles is evident through the ratification of international human rights treaties. These treaties are binding in international law. Thus, they are not mere words on paper; they are tangible obligations that we must uphold. As a nation, we are responsible for immediately implementing or progressively realising the human rights obligations enshrined in these treaties. The public service, in accordance with the law, has a duty to integrate these obligations into policies and decisions, providing free and frank advice to ensure compliance. Aotearoa is primarily held accountable for its international human rights treaty obligations through various mechanisms, including the United Nations, Te Kāhui Tika Tangata Human Rights Commission itself, independent monitoring bodies, civil society organisations, and the media. I take this opportunity to thank profusely Commissioner Paula Tesoriero for her incredible work and leadership as Disability Rights Commissioner (2017-2022), and Commissioner Meng Foon for his immense contribution to the wellbeing of numerous communities and many individuals as Race Relations Commissioner (2019-2023). Paula and Meng advanced human and indigenous rights in Aotearoa New Zealand and I’m deeply honoured to have worked with them. In closing, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all those who have joined us in our tireless pursuit of human rights. The year 2023 has been a testament to our collective commitment to justice, equality, and the wellbeing of all individuals in Aotearoa New Zealand. Together, we will continue to make strides towards a more just and equitable society, holding the torch of human rights high for generations to come. Our Guiding Rationale: Upholding International Human Rights Law Throughout our work, one guiding principle remains paramount: our responsibility to provide advice on binding international human rights law. New Zealand's commitment to these 4 Pūrongo ā-tau Annual Report 2023 Paul Hunt Te Amokapua Chief Commissioner