Summarised by Centrist
A new report, Unpopular Opinions: Academic Freedom in New Zealand, sheds light on a growing crisis in Kiwi universities. They might be more worried about brand management than fostering open debate, according to Dr James Kierstead.
Kierstead highlights three major threats to academic freedom: progressive radicalism, Chinese Communist Party (CCP) interference, and the managerial focus on protecting university brands.
Drawing from 72 academic testimonies and 21 incidents, the report notes that topics like gender/sex have become particularly sensitive. In particular the Treaty of Waitangi has emerged as the issue that many academics are most afraid to discuss, with any challenge to progressive interpretations often being “off-limits.”
One academic noted “a culture of fear” that is stifling open discussion, with many fearing that their views, especially if right-leaning, could result in disciplinary action.
Kierstead’s report also details foreign interference from the Chinese Communist Party, citing New Zealand’s reliance on Chinese students and collaborations with programs linked to the Chinese government.
Further, he points out how universities are bowing to activist pressure, with cancelled events and deplatformed speakers becoming all too common. His recommendations include annual audits of academic freedom and better training for administrators on their legal obligations.
