The NZ Free Speech Union’s latest poll, conducted by Curia Market Research, reveals that a majority of New Zealanders are in favor of tying government funding for universities to their commitment to academic freedom. According to the survey, 53 percent of respondents support this idea, while 19 percent oppose it. The poll question asked participants whether they believed government funding should be influenced by a university’s dedication to upholding academic freedom.
This result aligns with a previous survey showing that 75 percent of New Zealanders consider free speech a crucial cultural value, with many believing it is currently under threat. Jonathan Ayling, Chief Executive of the Free Speech Union, emphasized the importance of the government’s policy to withhold funding from universities that fail to protect academic rights. This policy, born out of a coalition agreement with the ACT Party, will require tertiary education providers receiving taxpayer funds to adopt a free speech policy as an amendment to the Education and Training Act.
Ayling highlighted the ongoing challenges to academic freedom in New Zealand, citing instances like Victoria University’s struggles to host a panel discussion on free speech. He emphasized that defending free speech and academic freedom is vital to the integrity of universities and the education they provide.
The Free Speech Union has introduced a profession-specific membership for academics as part of their efforts to safeguard academic freedom in New Zealand universities and promote free speech among students. They are committed to ensuring that tertiary education remains a space for critical thinking rather than indoctrination.
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