Insight for Sunday 10 November 2013

New Zealand is campaigning to win a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council in 2015-16.

The Prime Minister, John Key, justifies the bid by saying this country will benefit economically by developing ties with countries it usually has little contact with.

But critics say it should not be about money. Instead they say it should be about the contribution New Zealand can make to international security and human rights.

Radio New Zealand’s political editor, Brent Edwards, investigates New Zealand's motives for seeking a Security Council seat, and whether it can make a difference.

Image: UN Security Council Chamber in New York