The Human Rights Comission is backing calls to give Māori control over the care of Tamariki Māori, saying self determination is a fundamental part of indigenous human rights.
In a large scale investigation into Oranga Tamariki, The Children's Comissioner, Andrew Becroft, told the government to commit to a 'by Māori, for Māori' approach and to hand back responsibility, resources and power over at risk children.
This recommendation is part of a two-stage report into the removal of babies by the Children's Ministry which found that Māori babies are five times more likely to be taken into state care than non-Māori babies.
Meng Foon is the Race Relations Comissioner.
