FSU Council Member Dane Giraud criticised Australia’s move, labelling it a “foolish choice” likely to increase attention on Owens and her controversial views.
Owens, known for her provocative political opinions, is set to tour New Zealand next month, sparking calls from some groups for a visa denial over her stance on sensitive topics, including the Holocaust. Giraud argued that “provocative or unpopular opinions are not a reason to deny someone’s entry into a country.”
In a press statement, Giraud stressed that New Zealanders’ rights to free speech should be respected, underscoring the importance of open debate as a cornerstone of democracy. “Bad ideas are beaten by good ideas,” he said, adding that challenging opposing viewpoints can only strengthen public discourse.
The Free Speech Union sees the potential visa denial as a counterproductive form of censorship that risks stirring greater interest in Owens’ message. Giraud noted Australia’s recent decision, asserting it had created “more interest in Owens and her views” than allowing her entry would have.
Giraud also cautioned that barring Owens could foster resentment among minority groups and warned against censorship in the name of protection.
“If New Zealanders don’t want to engage with Owens, they don’t need to attend her events,” he concluded, reiterating that Kiwis should have the freedom to decide which voices they engage with and to form their own opinions.
Daily Telegraph New Zealand (DTNZ) is an independent news website, first published in October 2021. - where this article was sourced.
In a press statement, Giraud stressed that New Zealanders’ rights to free speech should be respected, underscoring the importance of open debate as a cornerstone of democracy. “Bad ideas are beaten by good ideas,” he said, adding that challenging opposing viewpoints can only strengthen public discourse.
The Free Speech Union sees the potential visa denial as a counterproductive form of censorship that risks stirring greater interest in Owens’ message. Giraud noted Australia’s recent decision, asserting it had created “more interest in Owens and her views” than allowing her entry would have.
Giraud also cautioned that barring Owens could foster resentment among minority groups and warned against censorship in the name of protection.
“If New Zealanders don’t want to engage with Owens, they don’t need to attend her events,” he concluded, reiterating that Kiwis should have the freedom to decide which voices they engage with and to form their own opinions.
Daily Telegraph New Zealand (DTNZ) is an independent news website, first published in October 2021. - where this article was sourced.
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