Tuesday 03 Nov 2026 @ 15:25
Chatham House
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Will New Zealand’s election change its foreign policy?

The current coalition has sought closer relations with the US and rowed back climate commitments. What would change under a coalition of the left?

On 7 November, New Zealanders go to the polls in what looks set to be a closely contested general election. As elsewhere, anxiety about the cost of living has dominated the campaign. 

International affairs tend to feature at the bottom of voter concerns. However, like many US citizens voting in this year’s midterm elections, some New Zealanders blame international events like the war in Iran for the higher costs that are their top priority. 

New Zealand’s foreign policy is therefore at stake in this election. And a change of government could substantially reshape the country’s position on key issues.

Click here to continue reading the full version of this Expert Comment on the Chatham House website.

 

 

Channel website: https://www.chathamhouse.org/

Original article link: https://www.chathamhouse.org/2026/11/will-new-zealands-election-change-its-foreign-policy

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