The Free Speech Union was formed in 2021 and has grown rapidly. It came from the Free Speech Coalition which began in 2018 out of the need to challenge the Mayor of Auckland after he banned people whose views he disliked and treated Council property as his own.
Our job is to fight the expansion of government censorship, by challenging bad legislation and dangerous legal precedents. We’re the central hub of a network of Kiwis who are motivated by the dire need to protect free speech across all areas - media, academia, politics, workplaces, city councils…
About us
We advocate and defend your human right to freedom of speech, regardless of your stance.
We don’t take any sides on political, cultural, social or ethical matters. But we go into bat so that you can. If you’ve been threatened, silenced, fired, or cancelled, we’ll advocate for your rights through writing letters, petitions, spreading awareness and representing you.
Get in touch todayPolling shows majority of Kiwis support university funding being contingent on defending academic freedom
May 09, 2024 Academic Freedom MEDIA RELEASE 8 May, 2024FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Polling shows majority of Kiwis support university funding being contingent on defending academic freedom Polling commissioned by the Free Speech Union and conducted by Curia Market Research shows that most New Zealanders (53%) support government funding to universities being partially contingent on upholding... Read moreFree Speech Union launches professional membership for academics to fight ‘culture of fear’ in universities
May 08, 2024 Academic Freedom, Academic membership MEDIA RELEASE EMBARGOED UNTIL: Midday, 8 May 2024Please note: The new membership and website will be launched at midday. Free Speech Union launches professional membership for academics to fight ‘culture of fear’ in universities The Free Speech Union has launched a professional membership category especially for academics to ensure... Read moreFree Speech Union welcomes Ethos’ policy guide to schools navigating gender ideology
May 07, 2024 compelled speech MEDIA RELEASE 07 May 2024FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Free Speech Union welcomes Ethos’ policy guide to schools navigating gender ideology A new policy guide for New Zealand schools released by human rights advocacy organisation Ethos includes recommendations for how speech and conscience rights can be upheld when dealing with differing gender ideologies, says... Read more
