Commission concerned over KiwiSaver investment reports

The Human Rights Commission has expressed concern at reports of KiwiSaver funds being invested in companies linked to human rights abuses.

"I think all KiwiSaver members would be shocked to learn that their money might be being used to fund land mines, cluster bombs and big tobacco," said Equal Employment Opportunities Commissioner Dr Jackie Blue.

This report comes on the back of the Business and Human Rights Forum that the Commission held last week.

"At the forum, there was a focus on responsible investment and how business has a responsibility to respect human rights not only in their direct supply chains, but also activity beyond this that is connected to their operation," Dr Blue said.

"This isn't just about how we source products and services - it is also about making sure our investments are being made responsibly too," she said.

"I encourage all New Zealanders to play an active role in understanding where their money is going, even when it is with government-appointed default schemes.

"In a similar vein, I encourage New Zealand business to invest responsibly with the money their employees entrust to them through investment.

"Businesses run the risk of serious reputational damage from increasingly discerning customers if they invest irresponsibly, but are also in a powerful position to create positive social change."

Date: 18 August 2016

Source: New Zealand Human Rights Commission