Summarised by Centrist
New Zealand’s engagement with the Christchurch Call, a global initiative to combat violent extremism and regulate social media’s role in spreading harmful content, is poised for an update in the coming weeks.
So what’s it gonna be?
Is the new government going to keep it or biff it?
Initiated by former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and French President Emmanuel Macron, the Call garnered international support following 2019’s tragic Christchurch mosque attacks.
Despite the Call’s growth in signatories and reported progress in combating online extremism, there are doubts about its effectiveness, funding priorities, and political support within New Zealand’s coalition government.
Ardern’s role as special envoy to the Christchurch Call has been under review. Discussions about funding and her continued involvement in the initiative are ongoing. While Ardern’s position is unpaid, it incurs substantial expenses for international travel and security, prompting calls for reassessment.
Recent developments suggest that cabinet decisions regarding the Christchurch Call are imminent, with the potential release of a cabinet paper outlining the government’s stance.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has expressed interest in Ardern continuing her duties with the Call, citing progress made in addressing algorithmic issues with tech companies. Yet, details about the future of Ardern’s role and New Zealand’s commitment to the Call remain pending official announcements.
