The New Zealand Jewish Council (NZJC) categorically rejects the mischaracterisation made by the Free Speech Union that it is calling for censorship in response to the rise in antisemitism in New Zealand.

Recent commentary has inaccurately portrayed the NZJC’s joint statement with the Holocaust Centre of New Zealand, which called for the development of a national strategy to address antisemitism, as a call for “tougher censorship laws.” This is not the case.

Our call was, and remains, for a coordinated, principled, and effective government response to antisemitism, following recent actions taken by the Australian Government.

To be clear:

• We have not called for restrictions on free speech.
• We have not asked for the silencing of criticism of Israel or advocacy for Palestinian rights.
• We are not seeking to criminalise opinions or suppress debate.
• We have been consistent in our position with regards to hate speech laws, even when that hate was directed at us.

What we are calling for is accountability when rhetoric becomes harassment, exclusion and incitement, and when hostile environments silence and endanger others, particularly in universities, where young Jewish New Zealanders are reporting increased intimidation, marginalisation, and the inability to safely express their identity and opinions.

Our position is grounded in democratic values. We believe in open discourse, but we also believe in ensuring that publicly funded institutions do not enable or ignore discrimination, whether against Jews or any other minority group.

It is not “censorship” to expect that our public institutions uphold basic standards of safety, respect, and inclusion. It is responsible governance.

We welcome engagement on this issue. We believe that civil society, including groups like the Free Speech Union, can play a constructive role in helping New Zealand navigate the balance between freedom of expression and freedom from hate. But it is essential that public commentary accurately reflects the positions of those it critiques.

We invite all New Zealanders, regardless of background or beliefs, to stand against antisemitism and support a national conversation that strengthens our democracy and upholds the dignity and physical safety of all.

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