AWLA has recently joined forces with the Coalition for the Safety of Women and Children by endorsing an open letter urging the Government to strengthen the criminalise of stalking in Aotearoa New Zealand. This initiative aligns with AWLA’s steadfast dedication to advocating for legal reforms in Aotearoa New Zealand, ensuring the safety of women and children. Current legislation fails to recognise stalking as a crime under the Crimes Act 1961, disproportionately affecting women and hindering their freedom within their communities. The open letter emphasises the imperative for stalking to be formally acknowledged as a criminal offence within the Crimes Act 1961, thereby dispelling any notion of it being merely a civil matter. Past experiences have shown civil orders to be inadequate in protecting victims and deterring stalking behaviours. The open letter also calls for better training for law enforcement officers to address stalking incidents. For those interested in delving deeper into this crucial issue, we encourage reading the policy document titled ‘A Stalking Law for New Zealand: Why it is necessary and what it should look like’ for further insight and understanding.
Click to read the open letter & support the petition! #SafetyNotStalking https://awc.org.nz/stalking-letter/
June Breakfast Club – Central Auckland