Research shows that in social cohesion, both the 'horizontal' ... read more

Research shows that in social cohesion, both the 'horizontal' (trust in each other) and 'vertical' (trust by citizens in the institutions of government) axes are important.

In order to achieve vertical social cohesion, where citizens trust that the institutions of government are acting in good faith in the best interests of all, then government agencies must be resourced to conduct effective relationships with communities. As we all know, the main things we need to build good relationships are time and space and these should not be construed as luxuries. With our ethnic and minority communities, more time and space may be needed to build a strong relationship as we navigate cultural and language differences, earn trust and work to fully understand issues. There is ample 'case study' evidence of the need for this as seen in the immediate aftermath of the Christchurch terror attacks, when the Islamic Women's Federation spoke out about attempts they had made to bring the issue of hate against Muslims and particularly Muslim women to official attention.

Proper resourcing for MEC is needed to ensure they can continue this life-affirming, trust-affirming, vital work which has a real and immediate impact on ethnic communities who can otherwise be so easily marginalised, which is bad for everyone. The proposed cuts will do just that.