A recent report reveals that social media is the primary platform where offensive material is encountered by New Zealand’s Pacific Peoples, Māori, Asian, and Muslim communities. The Broadcasting Standards Authority (BSA) conducted a survey titled “Freedom of Expression and Harms Impacting Diverse Communities,” which included 493 participants. The findings indicate that approximately one-third of Māori, Pasifika, and Muslim individuals reported exposure to offensive or discriminatory content in the past six months.
Social media was criticized most heavily for harmful content, overshadowing free-to-air television and online news sites. The report shows that half of the respondents from these diverse communities avoid broadcasts due to concerns over racist comments, anti-Māori perspectives, biased coverage of the Palestine-Israel conflict, or labeling individuals as criminals or terrorists.
BSA chief executive Stacey Wood acknowledged that while news media generally adhere to broadcasting standards, there exists a broader societal issue concerning social cohesion and kindness. The negative impact of offensive views was highlighted, with such expressions normalizing undesirable behavior, affecting community aspirations, and perpetuating harmful stereotypes.
Denise Kingi-‘Ulu’ave, chief executive of the Pacific mental health organization Le Va, noted that constant exposure to negativity and discrimination can harm self-esteem and mental health. Only a minority of respondents believe New Zealand maintains an appropriate balance between freedom of expression and potential harm, with most advocating for stronger restrictions on free speech to protect community members from harm.
A significant portion of participants, 56 percent of Māori, 60 percent of Pacific Islanders, 45 percent of Asians, and 41 percent of Muslims, support implementing stricter limits on freedom of expression. Although social media stands out as the most frequent source of offensive content, the BSA also pointed out that themes in mainstream media contribute to legitimizing harmful narratives.
Wood emphasized the regulatory gaps in social media, advocating for reform since the current legislation was created when internet usage was minimal. The BSA is urging the New Zealand government to consider regulatory measures for online platforms to address the lack of oversight.
Kingi-‘Ulu’ave expressed that the report accurately reflects the experiences of Pacific communities and urged politicians to be mindful of their rhetoric, which could incite discrimination or hate speech. She recounted a disturbing incident involving threats made against the Ministry of Pacific Peoples following controversial remarks from political leaders.
The report stresses the importance of media literacy within Pacific communities to help them critically engage with content and be aware of harmful narratives. Anjum Nausheen Rahman, a leader in the New Zealand Muslim community, highlighted the prevalence of unregulated online media, which poses risks of disinformation.
Academic Malini Hayma criticized the lack of representation of diverse communities in the media, noting that it fosters alienation and distrust. The need for inclusive storytelling that reflects the reality of all communities in New Zealand is imperative.
Respondents shared various experiences of offensive content, with some naming specific instances, while others struggled to identify particular sources. Concerns were raised about unbalanced reporting on sensitive topics such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and negative stereotypes about Māori and Pacific Peoples.
The BSA report has faced criticism from Free Speech Union chief executive Jonathan Ayling, who warned that it could encroach on free speech. He argued that censoring unpopular opinions does not address societal divisions and emphasized the importance of free expression.
Additionally, the report noted a low rate of formal complaints regarding offensive views in public broadcasting, pointing to cultural norms that discourage making complaints. Most respondents preferred discussing their experiences with family or friends over filing formal complaints.
As global scrutiny of social media platforms increases, the findings arrive at a time when governments are pursuing measures to enhance accountability among these companies. Countries like Australia and France are considering restrictions or regulatory changes to address harmful online content.
The BSA’s findings underscore the need for a comprehensive approach to balancing freedom of expression with the protection of vulnerable communities against harmful content.