New laws aim to prevent foreign manipulation of NZ society.
The New Zealand government has passed legislation aimed at strengthening espionage offences and specifically criminalizing foreign interference. According to Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith, the reality is that some foreign states engage in deceptive, corruptive, or coercive activities intended to manipulate New Zealand's society.
The Crimes (Countering Foreign Interference) Amendment Bill creates new offences to address this issue and updates existing espionage-related laws. These changes are part of ongoing efforts across government to protect New Zealand from foreign interference. Mr Goldsmith emphasizes that normal diplomatic activity, transparent lobbying, and open engagement with the public are welcome in New Zealand, while any form of foreign interference will not be tolerated.
The legislation is seen as a step towards restoring law and order, delivering on promises made in the Q4 Action Plan. The government aims to ensure its criminal laws are fit for purpose to address this threat to sovereignty and national security.