Consultation concerning novel biotechnologies: who speaks for Māori?

Abstract

Existing tensions between western science and indigenous knowledge systems, values and beliefs are exacerbated by novel biotechnologies such as genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Under legislation governing GMOs in New Zealand the Crown is required to consult Māori (indigenous people) concerning the potential impact of such technologies on their culture and traditions, as outlined in Article II of the Treaty of Waitangi (signed in 1840 and considered the founding document of New Zealand). Drawing upon research conducted among Māori concerning their views on GMOs, as well as experience gained by the author as a member of the Māori advisory committee to the agency that administers the legislation, this article examines some of the issues surrounding consultation between Māori and the Crown. Challenges for Māori include issues of mandate, transparency and conflicts of interest between individuals, hapu (sub‐tribes) and tribal authorities concerning who speaks for the collective. The challenge for Crown regulators is to better understand these complexities and to ensure that adequate time and information is provided for informed consultation between the parties. The development of best practice consultation in a tribal collective, as well as externally between it and the Crown partner, is an issue of international relevance for the ethics of knowledge production and use.