Transparency needed to support the integrity of our Defence Force

Transparency International New Zealand supports the call for an inquiry into the 2010 New Zealand Defence Force raid on two villages in Afghanistan.

"Integrity is a core value espoused by the New Zealand Defence Force and the Ministry of Defence," says Transparency International's New Zealand (TINZ) CEO, Janine McGruddy. "And our confidence in their integrity is a token of legitimacy and support for what they do in our name."

"New Zealanders universally desire a culture that is transparent and demonstrates that we are fair in our dealings. It's worth remembering that ANZAC Day falls this month, and honour for those that served can be shown by shining a light on the issues that have been raised," McGruddy said, "By welcoming an inquiry Defence would grow the public's trust, not lessen it."

She added that the cost of an inquiry, financial or otherwise, should not be a factor that the NZDF considers when weighing up its options.

Transparency International New Zealand's mission is to foster a New Zealand culture where transparency, integrity, good governance and ethical standards and practices are the core values for all New Zealanders.

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