A 5 page overview of the history and current state of affairs for these two regions. The contention is presented that neither in the democratic model of Australia or in the “New Right” New Zealand is the political power of the indigenous peoples anywhere near being an equivalent to that enjoyed by the dominant culture. Bibliography lists 5 sources.
Name of Research Paper File: AM2_PPabo3.rtf
Unformatted Sample Text from the Research Paper:
for aboriginal groups across the world. Some aboriginal groups would be thought of as having greater access to political power than others as a result of the political structure
of their countrys government. Australia, for example, enjoys a democratic society. Democratic societies are associated with an emphasis on equality in particular. In theory the rule of
law in Australia entitles all persons, regardless of their sex, race, or socioeconomic status, are entitled to fair legal process (Williams, 2001). This entitlement even extends to those that
seek asylum in Australia and it provides for the resolution of dispute in an independent and impartial judicial review (Williams, 2001). Rule of law prevents the abuse of power
by the government and, indeed, by individuals. Under the rule of law the wealthy and the politically influential are subject to the same laws as the poor commoner.
Although Australia has the reputation as being a model democracy, however, some problems do exist. Unfortunately, it appears that even the rule of law cannot fully overcome or prevent
these problems particularly as the involve Australias aboriginal peoples. While in theory the rule of law protects against discrimination and provides for true
equality, in reality even the rule of law cannot provide for true equality in Australia. Australia operates as a true democracy yet she is the home of blatant discrimination
and inequality. The aborigine inhabitants of the country are the most frequent targets of this discrimination and inequality. Such is also the case for another nearby aboriginal peoples
as well, however. These peoples can be found in New Zealand some two thousand kilometers to the south of Australia and comprising her nearest largest neighbor (Lees, 1998).