The co-leaders of the Maori Party have welcomed the report of the United Nations Human Rights Council which has recommended our government better protect Maori rights.

The Minister of Justice, Simon Power, last night presented New Zealand's National Report to the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva.

He appeared as part of New Zealand's participation in the Universal Periodic Review.

4 May 2009 - The Minister of Justice, Simon Power, leaves for Geneva today to present New Zealand's National Report to the United Nations Human Rights Council under the new Universal Periodic Review mechanism.

The presentation takes place on Thursday, New Zealand time.

1 April 2009 - The Chief Human Rights Commissioner Rosslyn Noonan has warmly welcomed the decision of the United States to re-engage with the United Nations Human Rights Council, while expressing deep disappointment at the withdrawal of New Zealand's bid for a seat on the Council.

Paris, 30 March 2009

The World Association of Newspapers and World Editors Forum have condemned a resolution approved by the United Nations Human Rights Council on `defamation of religion', calling the measure an attack on the basic human right of freedom of expression.