Nine specialists from across New Zealand have been appointed to a multi-stakeholder group to provide advice to Government on countering disinformation.
The group will explore solutions to better understand disinformation and address its effects in Aotearoa New Zealand. This includes exploring the case for a non-government entity to lead long term work on disinformation. The group will look at Aotearoa New Zealand’s specific needs, while taking lessons from overseas on efforts to counter this global issue.
This is one of the initiatives underway by the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet on behalf of the Government to strengthen national capacity to identify and address disinformation.
The group is made up of nine members who will each provide expertise across a broad range of areas related to disinformation, from civil society, the private sector, academia, journalism, and the legal system. A Te Ao Māori view on disinformation will be a core part of the group’s work.
The Disinformation Multi-Stakeholder Group members are:
- Andrew Cushen (Co-Chair)
- Robyn Kamira (Co-Chair) (Te Rarawa, Te Aupōuri, Tai Tokerau whānui)
- Brent Carey (Te Āti Awa)
- Kate Hannah
- Dr Mona Krewel
- Vivien Maidaborn
- Jeremy Rees
- Paul Rishworth KC
- Dr Chris Wilson
Their findings will be released in early 2024. It will be a decision for a future government as to what action it takes in response to the group’s report.
The Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet convenes the group and provides its secretariat but is not a member of the group.