International economist Philippe Legrain to visit New Zealand to present views on economic benefits of ethnic diversity

The economic benefits of diversity will be in the spotlight from 11 - 22 May. The Office of Ethnic Affairs is holding a series of events in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch on how New Zealand can maximize the benefits that diversity offers, particularly in a period of economic instability, says Mervin Singham, Director – Office of Ethnic Affairs, Department of Internal Affairs.

Leading UK economist and writer Philippe Legrain is visiting New Zealand in May to take part in a number of discussions on the economic benefits of diversity.

Legrain, has worked as trade and economics correspondent for The Economist, as special adviser to the former director general of the World Trade Organisation and is a Visiting Fellow at the European Institute of the London School of Economics. He has written articles for British and American publications including the Financial Times, the Wall Street Journal Europe and Foreign Policy. His most recent book, Immigrants: Your Country Needs Them, was shortlisted for the 2007 Financial Times Goldman Sachs Business Book of the Year award.

Legrain along with other local keynote speakers will present his views on how ethnic diversity fuels innovation and productivity in countries that manage it effectively.

"Cultural diversity is a good thing," says Legrain, "not just intrinsically, but also economically. Diverse societies tend to be more productive than more uniform ones, and so pay higher wages. Diversity also boosts creativity, innovation and ultimately economic growth. The challenge for New Zealand is how to make the most of its biggest asset: its people."

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New Zealand is a diverse society encompassing many different cultures and ethnicities. The combined population of Maori, Pacific and Ethnic peoples, which currently accounts for approximately 30% of the total population, is projected to rise to around 40% by 20261. This means the labour force is going to continue to diversify.

“Given the current economic forecasts, New Zealand needs to consider how it might reinvigorate the economy and gain a competitive edge in the global market. One such consideration is diversity, in particular ethnic diversity, which can be a stimulant for economic growth for countries that manage and utilise it effectively,” says Mervin Singham, Director Office of Ethnic Affairs.

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Notes:

The views expressed by participants are their own and are not endorsed by the Crown and the British Council. Their contribution will contribute to debate and provide a forum for dialogue in the context of the benefits of diversity.
English Language Partners New Zealand (formerly the National Association of ESOL Home Tutors Schemes) and the British Council are partnering with the Office of Ethnic Affairs in bringing Philippe Legrain to New Zealand.

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1 Statistics New Zealand National Ethnic Population Projections, 2 April 2008: http://www.stats.govt.nz/products-and-services/media-releases/national-ethnic-population-projections/national-ethnic-population-projections-2006-base-mr.htm