Yao et al.'s article (available here) makes a vital contribution by highlighting the importance of high-quality ethnicity data in research—not only for identifying and quantifying ethnic inequities, but also for enabling equitable resource distribution, shaping effective interventions, and tracking progress over time.

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In our Letter to the Editor, Pacific Perspectives Ltd builds on this important work by asking: what happens when high-quality research relies on low-quality census or administrative data? These data are used not only in research but also to inform policy—meaning that even the most rigorous studies can inherit and perpetuate inequities embedded in flawed systems. The result: distorted findings and decisions that misrepresent the realities and needs of Māori and Pacific communities. (link to our article either in the Journal itself or in our website) 

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We are particularly concerned that these issues have not been adequately addressed in current census reform plans, risking continued systemic bias and inequity (read our submission for the 2028 census here.)