New Zealand Human Rights Chief Apologizes Following Backlash Over Islamophobic Remarks

IQNA – New Zealand’s Human Rights Commissioner, Stephen Rainbow, has issued a public apology following strong criticism from Jewish and Muslim groups over remarks that were widely condemned as Islamophobic.

In a statement, Rainbow acknowledged his comments had caused offense, emphasizing that “New Zealand has no place for Islamophobia” and personally apologizing to the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ), Anadolu Agency reported.

The controversy arose after Rainbow reportedly claimed that Muslims, rather than white supremacists, posed the greatest threat to the Jewish community in New Zealand. His comments, made during a February 24 meeting with Race Relations Commissioner Melissa Derby and Human Rights Commission staff, were met with swift condemnation from Alternative Jewish Voices and Dayenu: Jews Against Occupation, two anti-Zionist Jewish organizations, along with FIANZ.

Philippa Yasbek, a representative of Alternative Jewish Voices, relayed concerns over Rainbow’s remarks in an email to Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith and FIANZ. “Dr. Rainbow asserted that the SIS (Security Intelligence Service) threat assessment shows that Muslims pose a greater threat to the Jewish community in New Zealand than white supremacists,” Yasbek wrote, pointing out that “white supremacists make up the bulk of violent extremists in Aotearoa”—using the Māori name for New Zealand.

In a separate email to FIANZ, Yasbek questioned Rainbow’s suitability for his role, asking: “How does one complain about a racist Human Rights Commissioner?”

FIANZ issued a statement expressing deep disappointment, calling Rainbow’s comments “racist and Islamophobic” and warning that his words had seriously undermined the integrity of the Human Rights Commission.

“Dr. Stephen Rainbow has seriously devalued and denigrated the office ... and this should be an alarming warning bell for human rights in this country,” the organization said.

Despite the controversy, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith has indicated he does not intend to seek Rainbow’s resignation. Reports from The Spinoff noted that Rainbow was appointed to his position despite an independent panel deeming him ‘not recommended’ for the role.

Source: Agencies