On 6 April, TINZ provided a written response to the Justice Select Committee Inquiry into 2020 General Election. Anne Tolley and Avon Adams were the leads in the TINZ response. Additionally we requested an opportunity to present in person.
We noted that NZ’s legislative and regulatory response has been flexible and forward thinking. This is commendable considering that COVID-19 made it extremely difficult for New Zealand candidates and voters to have the level of mutual access, debate and challenge that is the norm in New Zealand elections.
Our response includes reference to the four recommendations from the TINZ research into online political campaigning in New Zealand during 2020.
- Require suppliers of advertisements to keep a detailed open register of published advertisements targeting New Zealanders
- Similarly require candidates, parties and promoters to provide details of their online ad buys
- Expand the enforcement capabilities of the Electoral Commission
- Increase the scope and capacity of the Advertising Standards Authority to address digital election complaints in a timely manner.
Refer to TINZ’s response to the Justice Select Committee Inquiry into 2020 General Election for details.
