Former Prime Minister Helen Clark has raised concerns about New Zealand’s involvement in the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing network, suggesting the alliance has overstepped its original purpose.
In a recent interview, Clark highlighted that the Five Eyes—comprising the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand—was initially a covert intelligence-sharing arrangement. She noted that during her tenure, its existence was neither confirmed nor denied. However, she expressed unease over its evolution into a platform for broader policy coordination, stating, “To see it now as the basis for joint statements, finance minister meetings, this has got a bit out of control.”
Clark’s remarks come amid reports that former U.S. President Donald Trump’s advisor, Peter Navarro, considered removing Canada from the alliance. Clark commented, “There’s been some talk in the media that Trump might want to evict Canada from it… Please could we follow?”
She emphasized the importance of maintaining New Zealand’s independent foreign policy and cautioned against the alliance’s “mission creep” into areas beyond intelligence. Clark advocated for the Five Eyes to return to being a discreet intelligence-sharing group, suggesting it would be more useful in that capacity.
Reflecting on past intelligence assessments, Clark recalled the 2003 invasion of Iraq, where New Zealand chose not to participate despite its allies’ involvement. She underscored the need for skepticism in interpreting intelligence, noting that misinterpretations can lead to significant consequences, as seen in Iraq.
Clark also questioned current plans to increase defense spending, suggesting that such moves align New Zealand more closely with larger allied forces. She expressed concern about re-engaging in international military interventions, stating, “We were off the bandwagon of US adventures. I would be a strong advocate of not getting back on that bandwagon.”
These comments have sparked a national conversation about New Zealand’s role within the Five Eyes alliance and its broader foreign policy direction.
