‘Untapped potential’ in Kiwi ethnic community
People from New Zealand’s ethnic communities face barriers to finding good-paying jobs despite being well qualified, says the minister in charge of inclusion and diversity.
Ethnic communities make up one in five Kiwis and more of them hold bachelor’s and postgraduate qualifications compared with the rest of the population.
But Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Ethnic Communities Priyanca Radhakrishnan says many continue to face barriers and struggle to find employment that pays a decent wage.
The Ethnic Communities Ministry this week released its first strategy for achieving wellbeing outcomes.
According to the ministry, 941,571 people out of 4,699,755 Kiwis identify as an ethnic community member.
The top three industries they work in are accommodation and food services, scientific and technical services, and healthcare and social assistance services and retail.
“There are specific and persistent barriers that some of our communities face . . . whether it be accessing government services, securing employment, and being paid equitably,” Radhakrishnan said.
“Incidents of discrimination . . . are a stark reality in schools, in places of work and daily life.”
She said that in response to a draft of the strategy released last year, communities were clear that they wanted to belong and to be seen to contribute to NZ’S growth.
Four key priorities were developed based on what communities said were important to them, she said.
These were to promote diversity and inclusion, develop initiatives to boost economic outcomes, ensure equitable access to government services, and work to connect and empower community groups.
Radhakrishnan said the ministry will deliver on its strategy by working with other government agencies, community organisations, local government and the private sector.