Introduction I am delighted to present the Human Rights Commission Strategic Direction He Whakamana Tāngata – A Life of Dignity for All. As a nation, we make a strong commitment to fairness and egalitarianism. This is laudable. However, it is not always supported by tangible action in some of the areas that make a huge difference in people’s day-to-day lives. The same is true for the Commission. We have been strong on nondiscrimination and civil and political rights – and we must continue to do this. But we must also do more in the area of workers’ rights, such as the right to a fair wage, social rights such as the rights to a decent home, access to healthcare and protection and education, as well as indigenous peoples’ rights. These human rights are part of the international code that successive governments have both shaped and signed up to. Our message is that human rights can empower and dignify individuals, whānau, iwi and communities, and they can also help governments deliver fair and robust policies. In He Whakamana Tāngata – A Life of Dignity for All, we are setting an ambitious new agenda – both for ourselves and for the country. While we can learn a great deal from what has already been done overseas, in some cases, our context is unique, and this needs to be reflected in our approach. We want to work with duty bearers – government and business – to make real positive change. We are also committed to walking our talk, solidifying and confirming our commitment to be a Tiriti-based organisation and a human rights exemplar. We may not always get it right, but we will learn, improve and strive to demonstrate that this foundational approach can make a real difference. (insert signature) Paul Hunt Chief Commissioner STRATEGIC DIRECTION 2020–2024 3