In just 24 hours, thousands have signed a public letter calling on Government Ministers to take action to address the
erosion of academic freedom in our universities, says Jonathan Ayling, Chief Executive of the Free Speech Union.
“It’s clear to Kiwis that academic freedom in New Zealand is under threat. In recent years, both in New Zealand and
abroad, we’ve seen the consistent pattern of universities stifling opinions, and individuals feeling unable to speak
freely.
“This is antithetical to the function of the university. Universities should be places where knowledge is tested and
ideas advance.
“It’s time for the Government to step in. Defending academic freedom and free speech means that the Government must
enforce ‘the rules of the game’; not participate in the contest of ideas itself, but ensure that no one is excluded
simply by virtue of the belief they hold.
“In the United Kingdom, Canada, and elsewhere, the Government has intervened to ensure that academics, not universities,
have their right to academic freedom protected, and as such are able to perform their role of 'critic and conscience of
society'.
“We are pleased to support these thousands of Kiwis as they call on the Government to take action to enable a new
generation of students and scholars that is free to challenge the universally accepted, consider the unthinkable, and
develop new knowledge for the benefit of all Kiwis.”