AWLA recently made submissions in strong opposition to the Legislation (Definitions of Woman and Man) Amendment Bill, recommending that the Bill be withdrawn. The submission reflects AWLA’s commitment to law reform that promotes equality, human rights, and the wellbeing of all women and girls.
Our submission raised concerns that the definitions in the Bill could create legal uncertainty, fall short of New Zealand’s human rights obligations, and create unintended consequences for access to important rights and services. AWLA also submitted that the Bill does not identify a genuine legislative problem requiring reform and that government efforts would be better directed towards our recommended, evidence-based initiatives that improve the safety, health, economic security, and equality of women and girls.
A copy of our submissions can be found below.