Free Speech Union Calls on Police to Stop Newly Introduced ‘Hate Crime’ and ‘Hate Speech’ Training for Officers Following Evidence of Political Bias

Recently introduced training requirements for police officers are inappropriate and show a concerning disregard for the foundational human right of free speech by the Police, says Jonathan Ayling, Chief Executive of the Free Speech Union.

“Out of recommendations from the Royal Commission of Inquiry into the Christchurch Mosque Attack, Police implemented this new training. Speech that incites violence is already illegal and is by no means protected by free speech. However, examples in the training for officers of ‘hate speech’ include claims that ‘there are only two genders’ or a billboard that reads ‘Kiwi, not Iwi.’

“These are both examples of entirely legitimate opinions that Kiwis are free to express. Police should be trained to protect Kiwis’ right to express their opinions, not trained to speculate as to whether they are ‘hateful’ or not.

“The Free Speech Union is currently pursuing 8 cases in the courts or tribunals for abuse of speech rights; 3 of these are in response to wrongful arrest by Police. This training threatens to further prime officers to over-zealously police the speech of Kiwis, meaning even more wrongful arrests are likely.

“‘Hate crimes’ do not currently exist in New Zealand law, and based on the experience from parts of the United Kingdom, it would be foolish for New Zealand to implement them. While ‘hate speech’ laws do exist in New Zealand (under sections 61 and 131 of the Human Rights Act), the bar is exceedingly high for arrest/prosecution under these laws.

“Free speech is an anti-extremism tool. Prohibiting individuals from expressing ‘hateful’ opinions does nothing to actually address the potential harm of their views. It is better for us to know who individuals are who hold extremist views, and expose and challenge them with the disinfectant sunlight of counter-speech.

“We consider this training potentially illegal. Our team is meeting with the Police Commissioner to address this training. If it is not significantly changed or stopped, we will take further action.”

From the Free Speech Union