The Government must not let terrorism law reform inadvertently silence legitimate speech. Incitement to violence is already illegal; we should not ban the ability for individuals to freely advertise what they think, says Jillaine Heather, Free Speech Union Council Member.

“Recent reports of proposals to make it a criminal offence to publicly express support for designated groups or causes raise serious red flags. Peaceful protest, political commentary, or particular symbols could fall within the law’s scope if definitions are not tightly drawn. We should not open the door to prosecuting Kiwis for expressing controversial or unpopular views.

“If certain opinions and discourse are banned, it will simply drive the conversation and ideologies underground to crop up in more dramatic ways. Censorship is a natural impulse to opinions we detest, but the wider picture must be considered. We’re actually better off when we let individuals advertise their views.

“It’s also concerning that these reforms are being developed behind closed doors, without public consultation. Transparency and accountability are key if we’re to trust the Government’s actions.

“New Zealand has already rejected ‘hate speech’ laws and the Department of Internal Affairs’ proposed online content regime. Why would we open the door to this now? Banning speech is always a bad idea, no matter the good intentions."

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