The human rights approach outlined above provides a framework to apply when considering the policy options and measures that could be implemented to address the problem of poverty in working households. Below we have outlined some of the ways in which policy drafters and decision makers could consider responding to the issue of poverty in working households in Aotearoa New Zealand, by applying a human rights lens. We have also provided some examples of recommendations that seek to identify and address some areas that our human rights analysis highlights as being important for respecting, protecting and promoting the wellbeing and human dignity of all. Respect rights by removing obstacles These responses and recommendations are provided from a human rights perspective – they provide the starting point for realising a human rights approach to addressing poverty in working households and the compounding effects of the pandemic on those working households experiencing poverty in Aotearoa New Zealand. What measures can be taken to protect the full enjoyment of human rights of persons in working households experiencing poverty? Further research and analysis will be needed, particularly regarding the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and these ideas may warrant further exploration. ‘States should devise and adopt a poverty reduction strategy based on human rights that actively engages individuals and groups, especially those living in poverty, in its design and implementation. It should include time-bound benchmarks and a clear implementation scheme that takes into account the necessary budgetary implications. It should clearly designate the authorities and agencies responsible for implementation and establish appropriate remedies and grievance mechanisms in the event of non-compliance’.48 What approaches can we take to remove the obstacles, including institutional ones, to the full enjoyment of human rights for people experiencing in-work poverty? As a starting point: • Develop a Te Tiriti and human rights based poverty eradication strategy • Adopt a Te Tiriti and human rights based housing strategy Protect rights by taking measures This could include: • Protecting workers from unemployment • Reducing unemployment and underemployment • Minimising an unemployment spike • Creating sustainable jobs for those who are most vulnerable to unemployment and underemployment • Increasing the number of households where more than one person is employed • Supporting self-employment initiatives Fulfill rights through targeted responses What targeted responses can be taken to promote the full enjoyment of human rights for all persons in working households experiencing poverty? How do we reduce the impact of discrimination and ensure particular attention is given to those working households most at risk of poverty? How can our Te Tiriti obligations to tangata whenua be fulfilled through partnership and rangatiratanga? For example: Target strategies towards particularly affected groups • Working in partnership with tangata whenua to develop strategies and address issues such as how to enhance earning potential • Targeting strategies to impact disadvantaged and particularly vulnerable groups and persons affected by poverty 20 Human Rights Responses to Poverty in Working Households