The Labour Party of New Zealand is a political party that is centered on the left. Labour’s platform program refers to democratic socialism as the party’s basic ideal, although analysts describe the party as social-democratic and practical in reality. New Zealand’s Labour Party aspires to create a more just and equal society based on a mixed economy. Let us have a look at the history and objectives of the New Zealand Labour Party to know them better.
History of the Labour party in New Zealand
In 1916, the New Zealand Labour Party amalgamated several socialist and trade union organizations, such as the Unified Labour Party and the Social Democratic Party.
It is well-known among trade unions and low-income voters as the most powerful party.
In 1935, it won 53 seats with a substantial majority, becoming the first Labour government under Prime Minister Michael Joseph Savage.
The party was in power constantly until 1949, following which it was only in control for brief intervals until 1975.
Under the leadership of David Lange, the party regained power in 1984, supporting economic reform and enacting legislation preventing nuclear warships from accessing the country’s ports.
In 1999, the party became the strongest in Parliament, and Clark was elected Prime Minister.
However, the Labour Party was defeated by the National Party in the 2008 election. The condition worsened by the fact that its representation in Parliament fell from 43 to 34 seats in the 2011 elections.
The party won 46 seats in the 2017 general election after forming a government with New Zealand First and receiving support from the Green Party.
In nearly a decade, Jacinda Ardern became the first Labour prime minister.
She led the party to a massive victory in the 2020 parliamentary election, capturing almost 49 percent of the vote.
About The New Zealand Labour Party
The New Zealand Labour Party, the country’s ruling party since 2017, is a social-democratic political party.
The New Zealand Labour Party is the country’s oldest political party, having been founded in 1916.
It is regarded as one of the two major political parties in the country.
From the 2008 general elections to the 2017 general elections, the Labour Party was the opposition party for nine years. It was the second-largest party in the House of Representatives of New Zealand.
Since August 2017, Jacinda Ardern, the current Prime Minister of New Zealand, has been the party’s leader.
Objectives of New Zealand Labour Party
The party believes in giving competent men and women opportunities through free elections to implement the party’s policies and goals.
Creating and sustaining an economy that can attract and keep all citizens’ knowledge, talents, and efforts.
Ensuring a fair distribution of the nation’s products and services for the welfare of all citizens.
Promoting and preserving all New Zealand residents’ liberties and well-being.
Educating the masses about democratic socialism’s ideals and goals, as well as economic and social equality.
