Property rights cannot be a slogan for protecting market power - Fran O’Sullivan
New Zealand business leaders are facing pressure to speak out against anti-business election policies, though some remain silent due to fears of political retaliation or concerns about maintaining neutrality. The debate centers on whether property rights and market stability are being compromised by political interventionism.
Why it matters
The article explores the tension between corporate governance, political neutrality, and the influence of election-year rhetoric on national economic policy.
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Dr Oliver Hartwich of The NZ Initiative says too many of the country’s business leaders are living in a "climate of fear".
Oliver Hartwich has put his finger on something rather uncomfortable.
The New Zealand Initiative director says too many of the country’s business leaders are living in a “climate of fear” – worried that speaking publicly against election policies which are anti-business and market interventionist could invite political retaliation.
In an open letter signed by 51 mainly NZ Initiative members , Hartwich argued New Zealand cannot attract the investment it needs if investors believe property rights, contracts and long-term business decisions can be overridden by political expediency.
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