Podcast: Does the new academic freedom legislation have teeth?
Dr Michael Johnston
Dr James Kierstead
17 April, 2025
In this podcast, Michael and James critique proposed amendments to New Zealand's Education and Training Act that aim to protect academic freedom in universities, arguing the legislation lacks meaningful enforcement mechanisms to hold institutions accountable.
They discuss potential improvements including a "free speech czar," legal recourse for violations, and eliminating loopholes that allow universities to restrict controversial speech through other institutional policies.
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