MFAT - Strategic Foreign Policy Assessment Navigating a shifting, 2023

The Strategic Foreign Policy Assessment by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) aims to provide a context for New Zealand's foreign, trade, and development policy until 2035 by identifying important shifts in the country's global strategic context. The Assessment recognizes that the world is changing and describes these changes while considering their impacts on New Zealand's enduring foreign policy interests. It is part of several strategy documents from various sectors of New Zealand's public service, all aiming to build a more secure, prosperous, and sustainable future for the country. The Assessment is divided into several sections. The first section explores New Zealand's national identity, its place in the world, and how the Treaty of Waitangi informs its interests, values, and partnerships. The second section acknowledges that international shifts are affecting New Zealand's global operating environment, emphasizing the need for clarity on the country's interests and values. The third section identifies three "Big Shifts" happening in the international order that could fundamentally alter New Zealand's position in the world: a shift from rules to power, a shift from economics to security, and a shift from efficiency to resilience. These shifts are taking place alongside disruptive events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine, economic difficulties, technological advances, and climate change impacts. The Assessment also explores the potential effects of these realities on New Zealand's approach to international affairs and outlines foreign policy challenges and opportunities up to 2035. It emphasizes the need for creative and entrepreneurial policy to support New Zealand's agency in a shifting world. Overall, the Assessment acknowledges the adaptability and resilience of New Zealand during uncertain times and aims to assist the country in navigating its foreign, trade, and development policy in a turbulent world. It recognizes New Zealand's unique characteristics, national identity, and commitment to working with others to promote a safer, more prosperous future. Additionally, it acknowledges the bicultural and multicultural nature of New Zealand and the importance of engaging with the world in a manner that reflects these identities.