Former Labour MP, Louisa Wall, has been appointed as New Zealand’s Ambassador for Gender Equality (Pacific)/Tuia Tāngata.
“Aotearoa New Zealand is committed to lifting our engagement with our Pacific partners on gender equality,” said Foreign Minister, Nanaia Mahuta in announcing the appointment today.
“Our Pacific resilience strategy reinforces our commitment to support increased representation of women in leadership, politics and decision-making, and to support partners in achieving sustainable development goals.
“New Zealand has an important part to play in supporting gender equality and the advancement of women and girls in the Pacific, and this role will be central to that,” the Minister said.
She said the Ambassador for Gender Equality (Pacific)/Tuia Tāngata will establish new partnerships and programmes that support the full and effective participation by women and LGBTQI+, and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels of decision-making in political, economic and public life in the Pacific.
“This role will have a key focus on identifying partnerships and new activities to support Pacific Sports Diplomacy,” said Ms Mahuta.
“Louisa is a strong advocate for girls and women’s rights and is passionate about human rights and equality. Her extensive experience in community engagement, sports diplomacy, LGTBQI+ rights, and women’s participation, make her uniquely suited as our Ambassador for regional engagement on these issues.
“I know she will make an invaluable contribution combining her subject matter knowledge, international connections and understanding of parliamentary law making process.”
The former Labour MP resigned from Parliament a week ago, ending a 14-year career. She will begin in her new role in May.
