Modernising the Monarchy
Dr Sean Palmer, Chair of Monarchy New Zealand, welcomes the introduction of the Royal Succession Bill as announced today
by the Minister of Justice.
“The much-needed changes to the royal succession will remove gender discrimination by allowing women equal right to the
throne,” says Dr Palmer. “New Zealand’s monarchy is an incredibly important part of our constitution and society. Making
sure that it reflects kiwi values is common sense.”
The bill will also end the centuries-old prohibition on heirs to the throne marrying Catholics. “This requirement came
out of 17th century European conflicts and is completely unnecessary today. The religious divisions of the old world
have no place in New Zealand. Anything that can be done to remove this discrimination is a positive step,” said Dr
Palmer.
All of the Commonwealth Realms, the countries which share Queen Elizabeth II as their monarch, have agreed to make the
same changes. As a fully independent nation, New Zealand is not actually obligated to make any changes and could set any
succession rules it wished. However, to preserve the present arrangement, in which one monarch is shared by several
countries, it is not only making the changes, it is coordinating them among the other realms.
“It is fitting that the nation which led the charge for women’s suffrage is coordinating the change for equal succession
rights,” said Dr Palmer. “This international effort to modernise the crown is remarkable. The monarchy has been evolving
for centuries and will continue to do so far into the future. That adaptability is just one of its great strengths."
Women have reigned in New Zealand for 70% of the time since the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi. No nations beyond the
Commonwealth Realms can boast such a gender balance.
ENDS