Transparency International New Zealand (TINZ) posed seven key questions to each political party on issues of transparency, anti-corruption and protection for whistleblowers. Here are their responses

A review of recent Transparency International New Zealand (TINZ) activity around elections offers a broad-brush look at our initial plans for the 2020 electoral cycle.

Guest author Tim Barnett discusses the complex issues and practical challenges of political party funding in New Zealand. He offers a couple of examples where these issues are being addressed in other ways that are worth considering for New Zealand.

This year, Transparency International analysed the relationship between politics, money and corruption, including the impact of campaign finance regulations and how money influences political power and elections. Keeping big money out of politics is essential to ensure political decision-making serves the public interest and curbs opportunities for corrupt deals. Transparency International’s research highlights the relationship between politics, money and corruption. Unregulated flows of big money in politics also make public policy vulnerable to undue influence.

Recent revelations about New Zealand political parties’ funding, are yet further evidence that our funding rules and political party governance badly need an overhaul.   It is reasonable to expect that those who lead should not only act according to the laws of the land, but also to have the understanding and sense to act morally beyond the laws of the land, and lead by example.

On Tuesday 6 October approximately 200 people gathered at Victoria University of Wellington to hear 2020 election candidates discuss business and political integrity.