Muslims in New Zealand demand reform of hate speech laws

Muslims in New Zealand are calling on the Minister of Justice to address their concerns regarding proposed reforms to the hate speech law and why the issue of hate speech has been excluded from the legislation.

The Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ) announced that while there are laws in place to prevent hate speech based on color or ethnicity, there is a perceived weakness in the law when it comes to religion.

A legislative committee has begun studying whether there is a need for a change in the current situation. However, the New Zealand Minister of Justice issued an order to halt the study, stating that reforming the law would infringe upon freedom of expression.

Abdul Razak, the President of FIANZ, stated that “it is necessary to establish boundaries in this regard. While freedom of expression is sacred, there should still be limits and a balance.”