Assessment of New Zealand's Involvement in Environmental Sustainability and Peacebuilding Initiatives in Gaza (7 October 2023 – 1 February 2024)
Lance D. Lavery made this Official Information request to Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Response to this request is long overdue. By law Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade should have responded by now (details and exceptions). The requester can complain to the Ombudsman.
From: Lance D. Lavery
Dear Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade,
Pursuant to the Official Information Act 1982, this request assesses New Zealand's involvement in environmental sustainability and peacebuilding initiatives in Gaza since October 7, 2023. This series has systematically examined various critical aspects of New Zealand’s engagement, providing a detailed understanding of its multifaceted response to the crisis.
Our journey began with an exploration of New Zealand’s humanitarian impact and response, revealing the extent and effectiveness of aid provided in crucial areas such as medical and infrastructural support. We then delved into the realm of healthcare system support, scrutinizing New Zealand’s role in strengthening Gaza’s medical infrastructure and strategic collaborations in healthcare. Following this, our focus shifted to the educational and cultural impact of the crisis, assessing the consequences on educational institutions and cultural heritage, and evaluating New Zealand’s efforts in these sectors.
Financial transparency and accountability formed the core of our fourth inquiry, where we sought clarity on New Zealand’s financial contributions towards humanitarian, educational, and medical aid in Gaza. The fifth request revolved around sanctions, diplomatic relations, and ambassadorial measures, offering insights into New Zealand’s diplomatic stance and strategic considerations in response to the crisis.
Our series further examined New Zealand's diplomatic actions and international strategies, including its participation in international forums and votes on UN resolutions. The seventh part concentrated on the influence of public sentiment and the complex issue of Palestinian statehood recognition on New Zealand’s foreign policy decisions. Most recently, the eighth instalment addressed New Zealand's adherence to international law and justice, focusing on legal proceedings, accountability for alleged war crimes, and its role in international legal discourse.
Now, as we conclude this series, our final request turns to the environmental impact and sustainable development in Gaza, alongside innovative solutions for peace and restoration initiatives in the region. This request aims to encapsulate New Zealand’s approach towards environmental sustainability and its strategic efforts in peacebuilding, reflecting a commitment to addressing both the immediate and long-standing challenges in the region.
Part Nine: Environmental Impact, Sustainable Development, and Peace Initiatives in Gaza
1. Environmental Impact Assessment and Mitigation:
• Detailed information on the most significant environmental damages in Gaza since October 7, 2023, emphasizing ecological and public health impacts.
• Overview of New Zealand's contributions to environmental impact assessments in Gaza, including any collaborative research or data collection initiatives.
• Description of specific measures and projects undertaken or supported by New Zealand to mitigate environmental damage in Gaza.
2. New Zealand’s Role in Environmental Rehabilitation:
• Comprehensive details of environmental rehabilitation projects in Gaza that New Zealand has been involved in or supported since October 2023.
• Analysis of the effectiveness of these rehabilitation efforts, assessing their impact on local ecosystems and communities.
• Information on New Zealand's collaboration with international and local partners for environmental rehabilitation in Gaza.
3. Support for Sustainable Development Initiatives:
• Description of sustainable development projects in Gaza supported or initiated by New Zealand, focusing on their aims, implementation strategies, and beneficiaries.
• Evaluation of the long-term environmental and socio-economic benefits of these sustainable development initiatives.
• Please provide information on New Zealand's upcoming initiatives to promote sustainable development in Gaza, especially those involving innovative approaches or technologies.
4. Innovative Solutions for Peace and Restoration:
• Overview of New Zealand's initiatives or contributions towards finding innovative solutions for peace in the Gaza context.
• Details on specific projects or programs aimed at fostering peace and stability, including efforts to address underlying socio-political issues.
• Information on New Zealand's role in supporting restoration initiatives in favour of the Palestinian people, considering historical and current challenges.
5. Restoration Initiatives for the Palestinian People:
• Description of New Zealand’s efforts in launching or supporting restoration initiatives specifically aimed at improving the livelihoods and rights of the Palestinian people.
• Analysis of the historical context of these initiatives, considering the long-term impact of the Nakba and subsequent developments.
• Assessment of the potential long-term benefits of these initiatives for peace, stability, and social equity in the region.
This final instalment of our series underscores our commitment to examining important matters in a democratic society. I value the Ministry's efforts in upholding transparency and facilitating a constructive dialogue on these significant issues. The Ministry's commitment to delivering comprehensive information is of the utmost importance and is vital for enabling well-informed public discussions.
I anticipate a comprehensive response by 14 February 2024. In anticipation of your responses to this and the previous requests in our series, I extend my gratitude for the Ministry’s engagement with these critical inquiries. As we navigate through complex international issues, your cooperation and forthcoming responses are crucial in fostering an informed understanding of New Zealand's role in the global theatre.
Thank you for considering this request with the seriousness and attention it deserves. We look forward to the Ministry's insights and contributions to these vital discussions.
Yours faithfully,
Lance D. Lavery
From: ENQUIRIES
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
[UNCLASSIFIED]
For enquiries regarding:
• Advice for New Zealanders living and travelling overseas – visit Home |
https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/
• Consular issues - or if you are a New Zealand citizen overseas needing
assistance, email: [email address].
• New Zealand Scholarships - email [email address]
• MFAT Vacancies - visit our website at:
[1]https://vacancies.mfat.govt.nz/.
• MFAT Graduate Programme - email: [email address].
• New Zealand visas, asylum and other immigrations matters - contact
Immigration New Zealand, by emailing
[email address] or visit the Immigration New
Zealand website at: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/ revised
• Visas for other countries - contact the relevant foreign representative
to New Zealand. A full list is available at
https://www.mfat.govt.nz/en/embassies/.
• New Zealand passports - visit the Internal Affairs website at:
www.passports.govt.nz.
• New Zealand citizenship - visit the Internal Affairs website at:
www.dia.govt.nz/New-Zealand-citizenship.
• Authentication of documents and Apostilles - visit the Internal Affairs
website at: www.dia.govt.nz/document-authentication.
• Bringing goods into New Zealand - visit the New Zealand Customs website
at: www.customs.govt.nz.
• NZ suppliers or companies - visit the New Zealand Trade and Enterprise
website at: www.nzte.govt.nz.
• To attest fingerprints - visit
https://www.police.govt.nz/faq/having-fi...
For all other enquiries, you will receive a response in due course.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
"The information contained in this email message is intended only for the
addressee and is not necessarily the official view or communication of the
Ministry. It may be legally privileged. If you are not the intended
recipient you must not use, disclose, copy or distribute this message or
the information in it as this may be unlawful. If you have received this
message in error, please email or telephone the sender immediately."
References
Visible links
1. https://vacancies.mfat.govt.nz/
hide quoted sections
From: ENQUIRIES
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
[UNCLASSIFIED]
Kia ora Lance D Lavery
Thank you for your OIA request received on 15 December 2023 for:
1.Environmental Impact Assessment and Mitigation:
•Detailed information on the most significant environmental damages in Gaza since October 7, 2023, emphasizing ecological and public health impacts.
•Overview of New Zealand's contributions to environmental impact assessments in Gaza, including any collaborative research or data collection initiatives.
•Description of specific measures and projects undertaken or supported by New Zealand to mitigate environmental damage in Gaza.
2.New Zealand’s Role in Environmental Rehabilitation:
•Comprehensive details of environmental rehabilitation projects in Gaza that New Zealand has been involved in or supported since October 2023.
•Analysis of the effectiveness of these rehabilitation efforts, assessing their impact on local ecosystems and communities.
•Information on New Zealand's collaboration with international and local partners for environmental rehabilitation in Gaza.
3.Support for Sustainable Development Initiatives:
•Description of sustainable development projects in Gaza supported or initiated by New Zealand, focusing on their aims, implementation strategies, and beneficiaries.
•Evaluation of the long-term environmental and socio-economic benefits of these sustainable development initiatives.
•Please provide information on New Zealand's upcoming initiatives to promote sustainable development in Gaza, especially those involving innovative approaches or technologies.
4.Innovative Solutions for Peace and Restoration:
•Overview of New Zealand's initiatives or contributions towards finding innovative solutions for peace in the Gaza context.
•Details on specific projects or programs aimed at fostering peace and stability, including efforts to address underlying socio-political issues.
•Information on New Zealand's role in supporting restoration initiatives in favour of the Palestinian people, considering historical and current challenges.
5.Restoration Initiatives for the Palestinian People:
•Description of New Zealand’s efforts in launching or supporting restoration initiatives specifically aimed at improving the livelihoods and rights of the Palestinian people.
•Analysis of the historical context of these initiatives, considering the long-term impact of the Nakba and subsequent developments.
•Assessment of the potential long-term benefits of these initiatives for peace, stability, and social equity in the region.
This email confirms receipt of your request and advises that we will respond to it as soon as reasonably practicable, and in terms of the timeframes and requirements of the OIA.
Please note that our response letter to you (with your personal details redacted), and any enclosed documents, may be published on the Ministry’s website.
Please also note that your request is formally due after the OIA summer holiday period (25 December 2023 to 15 January 2024), which are not considered working days as set out in section 2(1) of the OIA, however the Ministry will seek to provide you with a decision on your request as soon as possible.
Ngā mihi
Executive Services Division
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade | Manatū Aorere
-----Original Message-----
From: Lance D. Lavery <[FOI #25202 email]>
Sent: Friday, 15 December 2023 8:17 pm
To: ENQUIRIES <[MFAT request email]>
Subject: Official Information request - Assessment of New Zealand's Involvement in Environmental Sustainability and Peacebuilding Initiatives in Gaza (7 October 2023 – 1 February 2024)
Dear Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade,
Pursuant to the Official Information Act 1982, this request assesses New Zealand's involvement in environmental sustainability and peacebuilding initiatives in Gaza since October 7, 2023. This series has systematically examined various critical aspects of New Zealand’s engagement, providing a detailed understanding of its multifaceted response to the crisis.
Our journey began with an exploration of New Zealand’s humanitarian impact and response, revealing the extent and effectiveness of aid provided in crucial areas such as medical and infrastructural support. We then delved into the realm of healthcare system support, scrutinizing New Zealand’s role in strengthening Gaza’s medical infrastructure and strategic collaborations in healthcare. Following this, our focus shifted to the educational and cultural impact of the crisis, assessing the consequences on educational institutions and cultural heritage, and evaluating New Zealand’s efforts in these sectors.
Financial transparency and accountability formed the core of our fourth inquiry, where we sought clarity on New Zealand’s financial contributions towards humanitarian, educational, and medical aid in Gaza. The fifth request revolved around sanctions, diplomatic relations, and ambassadorial measures, offering insights into New Zealand’s diplomatic stance and strategic considerations in response to the crisis.
Our series further examined New Zealand's diplomatic actions and international strategies, including its participation in international forums and votes on UN resolutions. The seventh part concentrated on the influence of public sentiment and the complex issue of Palestinian statehood recognition on New Zealand’s foreign policy decisions. Most recently, the eighth instalment addressed New Zealand's adherence to international law and justice, focusing on legal proceedings, accountability for alleged war crimes, and its role in international legal discourse.
Now, as we conclude this series, our final request turns to the environmental impact and sustainable development in Gaza, alongside innovative solutions for peace and restoration initiatives in the region. This request aims to encapsulate New Zealand’s approach towards environmental sustainability and its strategic efforts in peacebuilding, reflecting a commitment to addressing both the immediate and long-standing challenges in the region.
Part Nine: Environmental Impact, Sustainable Development, and Peace Initiatives in Gaza
1.Environmental Impact Assessment and Mitigation:
•Detailed information on the most significant environmental damages in Gaza since October 7, 2023, emphasizing ecological and public health impacts.
•Overview of New Zealand's contributions to environmental impact assessments in Gaza, including any collaborative research or data collection initiatives.
•Description of specific measures and projects undertaken or supported by New Zealand to mitigate environmental damage in Gaza.
2.New Zealand’s Role in Environmental Rehabilitation:
•Comprehensive details of environmental rehabilitation projects in Gaza that New Zealand has been involved in or supported since October 2023.
•Analysis of the effectiveness of these rehabilitation efforts, assessing their impact on local ecosystems and communities.
•Information on New Zealand's collaboration with international and local partners for environmental rehabilitation in Gaza.
3.Support for Sustainable Development Initiatives:
•Description of sustainable development projects in Gaza supported or initiated by New Zealand, focusing on their aims, implementation strategies, and beneficiaries.
•Evaluation of the long-term environmental and socio-economic benefits of these sustainable development initiatives.
•Please provide information on New Zealand's upcoming initiatives to promote sustainable development in Gaza, especially those involving innovative approaches or technologies.
4.Innovative Solutions for Peace and Restoration:
•Overview of New Zealand's initiatives or contributions towards finding innovative solutions for peace in the Gaza context.
•Details on specific projects or programs aimed at fostering peace and stability, including efforts to address underlying socio-political issues.
•Information on New Zealand's role in supporting restoration initiatives in favour of the Palestinian people, considering historical and current challenges.
5.Restoration Initiatives for the Palestinian People:
•Description of New Zealand’s efforts in launching or supporting restoration initiatives specifically aimed at improving the livelihoods and rights of the Palestinian people.
•Analysis of the historical context of these initiatives, considering the long-term impact of the Nakba and subsequent developments.
•Assessment of the potential long-term benefits of these initiatives for peace, stability, and social equity in the region.
This final instalment of our series underscores our commitment to examining important matters in a democratic society. I value the Ministry's efforts in upholding transparency and facilitating a constructive dialogue on these significant issues. The Ministry's commitment to delivering comprehensive information is of the utmost importance and is vital for enabling well-informed public discussions.
I anticipate a comprehensive response by 14 February 2024. In anticipation of your responses to this and the previous requests in our series, I extend my gratitude for the Ministry’s engagement with these critical inquiries. As we navigate through complex international issues, your cooperation and forthcoming responses are crucial in fostering an informed understanding of New Zealand's role in the global theatre.
Thank you for considering this request with the seriousness and attention it deserves. We look forward to the Ministry's insights and contributions to these vital discussions.
Yours faithfully,
Lance D. Lavery
-------------------------------------------------------------------
This is an Official Information request made via the FYI website.
Please use this email address for all replies to this request:
[FOI #25202 email]
Is [MFAT request email] the wrong address for Official Information requests to Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade? If so, please contact us using this form:
https://fyi.org.nz/change_request/new?bo...
Disclaimer: This message and any reply that you make will be published on the internet. Our privacy and copyright policies:
https://fyi.org.nz/help/officers
If you find this service useful as an Official Information officer, please ask your web manager to link to us from your organisation's OIA or LGOIMA page.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
"The information contained in this email message is intended only for the addressee and is not necessarily the official view or communication of the Ministry. If you are not the intended recipient you must not use, disclose, copy or distribute this message or the information in it. If you have received this message in error, please email or telephone the sender immediately."
hide quoted sections
From: ESD
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
[UNCLASSIFIED]
Tēnā koe Lance Lavery,
On behalf of the Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Trade, please see attached the response to your official information request.
Ngā mihi,
Executive Services Division
-----Original Message-----
From: Lance D. Lavery <[FOI #25202 email]>
Sent: Friday, 15 December 2023 8:17 pm
To: ENQUIRIES <[MFAT request email]>
Subject: Official Information request - Assessment of New Zealand's Involvement in Environmental Sustainability and Peacebuilding Initiatives in Gaza (7 October 2023 – 1 February 2024)
Dear Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade,
Pursuant to the Official Information Act 1982, this request assesses New Zealand's involvement in environmental sustainability and peacebuilding initiatives in Gaza since October 7, 2023. This series has systematically examined various critical aspects of New Zealand’s engagement, providing a detailed understanding of its multifaceted response to the crisis.
Our journey began with an exploration of New Zealand’s humanitarian impact and response, revealing the extent and effectiveness of aid provided in crucial areas such as medical and infrastructural support. We then delved into the realm of healthcare system support, scrutinizing New Zealand’s role in strengthening Gaza’s medical infrastructure and strategic collaborations in healthcare. Following this, our focus shifted to the educational and cultural impact of the crisis, assessing the consequences on educational institutions and cultural heritage, and evaluating New Zealand’s efforts in these sectors.
Financial transparency and accountability formed the core of our fourth inquiry, where we sought clarity on New Zealand’s financial contributions towards humanitarian, educational, and medical aid in Gaza. The fifth request revolved around sanctions, diplomatic relations, and ambassadorial measures, offering insights into New Zealand’s diplomatic stance and strategic considerations in response to the crisis.
Our series further examined New Zealand's diplomatic actions and international strategies, including its participation in international forums and votes on UN resolutions. The seventh part concentrated on the influence of public sentiment and the complex issue of Palestinian statehood recognition on New Zealand’s foreign policy decisions. Most recently, the eighth instalment addressed New Zealand's adherence to international law and justice, focusing on legal proceedings, accountability for alleged war crimes, and its role in international legal discourse.
Now, as we conclude this series, our final request turns to the environmental impact and sustainable development in Gaza, alongside innovative solutions for peace and restoration initiatives in the region. This request aims to encapsulate New Zealand’s approach towards environmental sustainability and its strategic efforts in peacebuilding, reflecting a commitment to addressing both the immediate and long-standing challenges in the region.
Part Nine: Environmental Impact, Sustainable Development, and Peace Initiatives in Gaza
1.Environmental Impact Assessment and Mitigation:
•Detailed information on the most significant environmental damages in Gaza since October 7, 2023, emphasizing ecological and public health impacts.
•Overview of New Zealand's contributions to environmental impact assessments in Gaza, including any collaborative research or data collection initiatives.
•Description of specific measures and projects undertaken or supported by New Zealand to mitigate environmental damage in Gaza.
2.New Zealand’s Role in Environmental Rehabilitation:
•Comprehensive details of environmental rehabilitation projects in Gaza that New Zealand has been involved in or supported since October 2023.
•Analysis of the effectiveness of these rehabilitation efforts, assessing their impact on local ecosystems and communities.
•Information on New Zealand's collaboration with international and local partners for environmental rehabilitation in Gaza.
3.Support for Sustainable Development Initiatives:
•Description of sustainable development projects in Gaza supported or initiated by New Zealand, focusing on their aims, implementation strategies, and beneficiaries.
•Evaluation of the long-term environmental and socio-economic benefits of these sustainable development initiatives.
•Please provide information on New Zealand's upcoming initiatives to promote sustainable development in Gaza, especially those involving innovative approaches or technologies.
4.Innovative Solutions for Peace and Restoration:
•Overview of New Zealand's initiatives or contributions towards finding innovative solutions for peace in the Gaza context.
•Details on specific projects or programs aimed at fostering peace and stability, including efforts to address underlying socio-political issues.
•Information on New Zealand's role in supporting restoration initiatives in favour of the Palestinian people, considering historical and current challenges.
5.Restoration Initiatives for the Palestinian People:
•Description of New Zealand’s efforts in launching or supporting restoration initiatives specifically aimed at improving the livelihoods and rights of the Palestinian people.
•Analysis of the historical context of these initiatives, considering the long-term impact of the Nakba and subsequent developments.
•Assessment of the potential long-term benefits of these initiatives for peace, stability, and social equity in the region.
This final instalment of our series underscores our commitment to examining important matters in a democratic society. I value the Ministry's efforts in upholding transparency and facilitating a constructive dialogue on these significant issues. The Ministry's commitment to delivering comprehensive information is of the utmost importance and is vital for enabling well-informed public discussions.
I anticipate a comprehensive response by 14 February 2024. In anticipation of your responses to this and the previous requests in our series, I extend my gratitude for the Ministry’s engagement with these critical inquiries. As we navigate through complex international issues, your cooperation and forthcoming responses are crucial in fostering an informed understanding of New Zealand's role in the global theatre.
Thank you for considering this request with the seriousness and attention it deserves. We look forward to the Ministry's insights and contributions to these vital discussions.
Yours faithfully,
Lance D. Lavery
-------------------------------------------------------------------
This is an Official Information request made via the FYI website.
Please use this email address for all replies to this request:
[FOI #25202 email]
Is [MFAT request email] the wrong address for Official Information requests to Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade? If so, please contact us using this form:
https://fyi.org.nz/change_request/new?bo...
Disclaimer: This message and any reply that you make will be published on the internet. Our privacy and copyright policies:
https://fyi.org.nz/help/officers
If you find this service useful as an Official Information officer, please ask your web manager to link to us from your organisation's OIA or LGOIMA page.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
"The information contained in this email message is intended only for the addressee and is not necessarily the official view or communication of the Ministry. If you are not the intended recipient you must not use, disclose, copy or distribute this message or the information in it. If you have received this message in error, please email or telephone the sender immediately."
hide quoted sections
Things to do with this request
- Add an annotation (to help the requester or others)
- Download a zip file of all correspondence