New Zealand legislation making English an official language ridiculed as ‘pathetic’
New Zealand has passed legislation making English an official language, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from linguists and opposition politicians. Critics argue the bill is a redundant and politically motivated 'pathetic' exercise, while the government maintains it is a practical measure for the statute book.
Why it matters
The legislation highlights ongoing tensions regarding national identity and the status of indigenous Māori language in New Zealand's political landscape.
The English language bill became law in New Zealand despite ministry of justice advice that there were no concerns about the status of the language. The English language bill became law in New Zealand despite ministry of justice advice that there were no concerns about the status of the language. New Zealand New Zealand legislation making English an official language ridiculed as ‘pathetic’ Passing of bill gives English same status as Māori and sign language but, with it already spoken by 95% of country, critics call it ‘a pointless exercise’
Prefer the Guardian on Google Legislation recognising English as an official language of New Zealand has been passed by parliament, prompting derision from linguists and legal experts and a now-viral broadside from a Māori MP who called it “pathetic”.
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