In our current capitalist system, a small class of people reap the rewards of everyone else’s work and give a pittance in return. To remedy this, we advocate for democratic ownership and control over Aotearoa’s industries, infrastructure, and resources to provide all Kiwis with a stable and fulfilling standard of living.
Aotearoa’s democracy is flawed, limited, and outdated. Regular people have too little a say in governance and our parliament is far from representative of the general population. Most MPs own rental properties or a business, giving them a vested interest in continuing the high rents and low wages that many in Aotearoa are forced to endure. For positive change to be made and sustained, this 'democratic' system of government must be replaced with one that truly lives up to the meaning of the word.
Capitalism requires infinite growth on a planet with finite resources. This growth comes at any cost, is inherently destructive to the natural environment, and improves the lives of only the select few who own the companies responsible. Growth should be directed at the betterment of everyone’s lives, and unsustainable and destructive growth should no longer be the norm.
Imperialism is born from the need for capitalist powers to find new markets and sources of raw materials to maintain their profitability. When an exploited country takes steps towards economic self-determination, it’s sanctioned, couped, invaded or otherwise brutalised by the dominant capitalist powers. New Zealand has long aided in this enforcement as a junior imperialist. We recognise capitalism as the root cause of imperialism and advocate for an end to both.
While the struggle between the owning and working class is at the root of capitalism, there are a number of other factors that contribute to disadvantage. Based on race, gender, and sexuality, people face varying levels of discrimination and oppression from within and outside of their own class. It is the duty of communists to not only focus on the contradictions between economic classes, but also on social distinctions like these. Only by recognising our shared struggle can we work towards a united, socialist future.