Global IssuesInternational OrganisationsAPECCommonwealthEASOECDUnited NationsNZ contribution to the UNNZ engagement with the UNNZ representationUN High Commissioner RefugeesUN JobsUN ReformUN StructureWorld Trade OrganisationAfricaAntarcticaAsiaAustraliaEuropeLatin AmericaMiddle EastNorth AmericaPacific
Enter the country or territory for the information paper you want. (We do not have information papers on all countries.)
Although we have tried to use plain English content on the site, you may come across specialist terms and acronyms. Find out what they mean in our glossary of terms.
If you come across a term that isn't included in the Glossary please send us an email.
Multilateralism is a central pillar in New Zealand’s foreign policy. As a smaller player on the international stage, our economic and physical security depends on a properly functioning system of collective security, the international rule of law and dispute settlement. Through our multilateral diplomacy in general, and our engagement with the United Nations in particular, New Zealand seeks security, prosperity and the preservation of freedom, for itself and others.
We take pride in our reputation as a good international citizen, and remain committed to international burden sharing and seeking global solutions to global problems. However, New Zealand is not committed to multilateralism for the sake of it, but to multilateralism that works. We acknowledge that there are times when regional action may be more effective – not every problem needs to end up at the door of the United Nations. We also recognise that ongoing reform is necessary to ensure that the UN is operating effectively and efficiently, and in the best interests of all its members.
New Zealand's General Debate Statement
Statement by H.E. Jim Mclay, Permanent Representative, to the United Nations in New York - 27 September 2011
New Zealand is seeking a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council in 2015-16. Elections are in 2014.
