Introduction:
The Atlas Network, a secretive US-based organization with deep ties to fossil fuel interests, has a long history of interfering in global politics. From engineering Brexit to undermining Indigenous rights in Canada and Australia, the network’s influence is felt worldwide. Now, the Atlas Network is turning its attention to New Zealand, where it is predicted to play a role in the upcoming debate surrounding the Treaty Principles Bill.
Atlas Network Foundation:
Founded in 1981, Atlas is a global network of right-wing ‘think tanks’ that organize and build power to shape the systems and structures we live in, to advance their own interests. According to its website, Atlas links 550 think tanks in more than 100 countries, including ten in New Zealand and Australia. Its political alignment is spelt out in its vision “of a free, prosperous, and peaceful world where the principles of individual liberty, property rights, limited government, and free markets are secured by the rule of law”. The network links ideological think tanks, whose approach to issues is driven by this libertarian ideology. Local right-wing think tanks the Taxpayers’ Union and the New Zealand Initiative are both official partners of Atlas. Atlas ideology also closely aligns with our current government, and its rush of regressive and reactionary policies.
A History of Interference:
The Atlas Network’s influence is evident in its role in the 2016 Brexit referendum, where it funded UK think tanks like the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) and the Legatum Institute, providing a platform for hard-line Brexiteers.
The think tanks had close access to ministers and provided constant briefings to radical Brexiter MPs, influencing the debate and pushing for a hard break from the EU. While the Atlas Network claims to only disclose donations to Europe as a whole, their opaque funding practices make it difficult to assess the extent of their influence on Brexit.
Further links to Atlas Network’s influence on Brexit:
Atlas Networks influence in Canada:
The Atlas Network’s influence extends beyond Europe, with a growing presence in countries with significant Indigenous populations. In Canada, the Atlas Network, through its partner the Macdonald Laurier Institute (MLI), actively worked against the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), arguing that it would disrupt the energy sector by giving Indigenous communities greater control over resource projects. This strategy included cultivating pro-industry Indigenous representatives to act as a shield against opposition, a tactic known as “redwashing.”
Further link to Atlas Network influence in Canada:
Atlas Network influence in Australia:
In Australia, the Atlas Network is similarly involved in the campaign against the Indigenous Voice to Parliament. Through its support of organizations like the Centre for Independent Studies, the Institute of Public Affairs, and LibertyWorks, the Atlas Network has been accused of spreading disinformation and undermining public support for the referendum. This campaign aligns with the Atlas Network’s broader agenda of protecting fossil fuel interests and preventing Indigenous communities from having a stronger voice in environmental policy.
Links to Atlas Network’s influence in Australia:
The Treaty Principles Bill: A Trojan Horse for Māori Sovereignty?
Aotearoa New Zealand is now grappling with a controversial new bill, the Treaty Principles Bill, which has sparked heated debate and raised concerns about its impact on Māori rights. While the bill claims to enshrine the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi in legislation, critics argue it is a Trojan horse designed to undermine Māori sovereignty and the Treaty process itself.
Atlas Network’s connections in NZ
The core of the controversy lies in the bill’s focus on “Tino Rangatiratanga” for all New Zealanders. This approach, critics argue, ignores the fundamental principle of the Treaty of Waitangi, which recognizes Māori as the original inhabitants of Aotearoa and acknowledges sovereign rights they held under He Whakaputanga Declaration of Independence 1835 which is enshrined under Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
The bill’s focus on “Tino Rangatiratanga” for all New Zealanders is seen as a deliberate attempt to shift the focus away from Māori sovereignty and create a framework that prioritizes individual rights over collective rights. This approach, critics argue, undermines the Treaty process and its core principles, which are based on partnership, protection, and participation.
Furthermore, the bill offers a solution to a problem that doesn’t exist. The Treaty of Waitangi is already a living document, and its principles are constantly being interpreted and applied in various contexts. The bill’s attempt to codify these principles in legislation is seen as unnecessary and potentially harmful, as it could lead to a distorted and incomplete understanding of the Treaty’s purpose and implications.
Adding to the concerns is the potential influence of the Atlas Network, and their potential influence on the National Party prime Minister Christopher Luxon who has currently stated he won’t support the Treaty Principles Bill past the first post. The question to the NZ Priminister Christopher Luxon is, are you strong enough to hold to your word and your principles?
The Atlas Network’s involvement in New Zealand, raises concerns about the potential for outside influence on the Treaty Principles Bill. Their history of promoting a narrow interpretation of indigenous rights and their focus on free-market principles aligns with the approach taken by the bill, leading many to believe that the Atlas Network may be playing a role in shaping the debate.
Further links to Atlas Network influence in NZ:
https://www.reddit.com/r/newzealand/comments/19aqvdz/seymours_ties_to_the_atlas_network_treaty/
Combating the Atlas Network:
Combating the influence of organizations like the Atlas Network requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both the tactics they employ and the underlying ideologies they promote. Here are some strategies that can be employed:
1. Exposing and Countering Disinformation:
– Fact-checking and debunking: Independent fact-checking organizations and journalists can play a crucial role in exposing the misleading narratives and disinformation spread by Atlas Network-affiliated think tanks. This involves scrutinizing their claims, identifying biases, and presenting accurate information to the public.
– Promoting media literacy: Educating the public about media manipulation techniques, identifying biased sources, and evaluating information critically can help individuals become more discerning consumers of information. This can make them less susceptible to the influence of disinformation campaigns.
– Transparency and accountability: Demanding transparency from think tanks and organizations like the Atlas Network regarding their funding sources, donors, and activities can help expose potential conflicts of interest and undue influence.
2. Strengthening Indigenous Voices and Rights
– Supporting Indigenous-led initiatives: Empowering Indigenous communities to lead the fight for their own rights and self-determination is crucial. This involves providing resources, platforms, and support for Indigenous organizations and initiatives that advocate for their interests.
– Promoting cultural understanding and awareness: Educating the wider public about Indigenous history, culture, and perspectives can foster empathy and understanding, making it harder for organizations like the Atlas Network to exploit divisions and undermine Indigenous rights.
– Upholding Treaty principles: Ensuring that any legislation related to the Treaty of Waitangi reflects its spirit and upholds the rights of Māori as the original inhabitants of Aotearoa is essential. This requires vigilant scrutiny of proposed legislation and advocating for a just and equitable interpretation of the Treaty.
3. Building a Counter-Narrative:
– Developing alternative think tanks: Creating independent think tanks and research institutions that promote progressive values, social justice, and environmental sustainability can provide a counterweight to the influence of right-wing think tanks.
– Supporting progressive media: Supporting independent and progressive media outlets that provide critical analysis and hold powerful interests accountable can help counter the influence of biased media outlets that promote the Atlas Network’s agenda.
– Engaging in public discourse: Actively participating in public discourse, engaging in respectful debate, and challenging harmful narratives can help shape public opinion and counter the influence of organizations like the Atlas Network.
4. Addressing the Root Causes:
– Tackling inequality and systemic injustice: Addressing the root causes of inequality, such as economic disparities, social exclusion, and environmental degradation, can create a more just and equitable society, making it less susceptible to the influence of organizations that promote a narrow, self-serving agenda.
– Promoting democratic values: Strengthening democratic institutions, promoting civic engagement, and protecting freedom of speech and assembly can create a more robust and resilient society that is less vulnerable to outside influence.
Conclusion:
Combating the influence of organizations like the Atlas Network is an ongoing challenge that requires a collective effort. By exposing their tactics, strengthening Indigenous voices, building a counter-narrative, and addressing the root causes of inequality, we can create a more just and equitable society that is less susceptible to their influence.
