Global Transparency International Chair, José Ugaz, visited New Zealand

In 2017 Transparency International New Zealand had the privilege of welcoming the International Chair of Transparency International, José Ugaz, in his first visit to New Zealand. He was in Aotearoa for 8 days before he headed across the pacific to visit the Countries of two other chapters of Transparency International, PNG and Australia.

José participated in a meeting of Transparency International’s Asia Pacific Regional Meeting and then had a whirlwind trip across the North and South Islands meeting with representatives from the government, TINZ’s affiliated partner the Institute of Internal Auditors New Zealand, leading businesses and speaking at events in Wellington, Palmerston North, Wanaka and Christchurch.

At a well-attended public lecture held in conjunction with Victoria University of Wellington’s Institute for Governance and Policy Studies on 1 August, José was interviewed by broadcaster Ian Fraser. Discussion was then extended to a panel comprising (left to right in photo below) Lyn McKenzie (representing Civil Society with roles including as former international Chair, Zonta), James Ryan (Trade-me) and Kirik Hope (CEO of Business New Zealand and former CEO of the New Zealand Bankers Association).

In the final stop during his visit he was welcomed to the University of Canterbury Law School by the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Dr. Rod Carr, to speak about issues of grand corruption and how they concern New Zealand. The event was attended by students, university staff and members of the public. Highly praised by those who attended, José’s visit to New Zealand has hopefully ignited a discussion about the issues of corruption that New Zealand, and the world, are currently facing.

José Ugaz in New Zealand