Ban online and commercial pornography

What is the topic?

This petition calls for the New Zealand Parliament to create a law that completely bans the sale and online distribution of pornography. "Pornography" refers to visual material designed to sexually arouse. "Commercial" means it is sold for profit, while "online" refers to content hosted on websites or apps. The petitioner argues that this content is easily accessible to children and contributes to sexual abuse.

Current situation in New Zealand

New Zealand currently regulates pornography through the Video Recordings Act 1993 and the Comms Act 2012. The Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) maintains a list of prohibited material that cannot be sold or distributed in the country. However, online content is difficult to fully block, and many sites remain accessible to New Zealanders. Recent public concern has grown regarding the impact of digital media on youth, with various advocacy groups and some political figures discussing stricter controls on online content.

Arguments in favour

• Child Safety: Supporters argue that banning commercial pornography reduces the risk of minors accessing explicit material, which they believe can distort views on sex and relationships.
• Public Health: Some argue that widespread access to pornography is linked to increased rates of sexual exploitation and abuse, and that a ban would protect vulnerable individuals.
• Moral Standards: Proponents often cite community values, arguing that the state should not permit the commercialisation of content they view as harmful to society.

Arguments against

• Freedom of Expression: Opponents argue that a total ban infringes on the right to access information and artistic expression, which is protected under the Bill of Rights Act 1990.
• Effectiveness: Critics note that total bans are historically difficult to enforce, especially online, and may drive the industry underground, making it harder to monitor or protect children.
• Adult Rights: Many argue that consenting adults should have the right to access legal adult content, and that the focus should be on age-verification technologies rather than prohibition.

Relevant context

The Department of Internal Affairs currently blocks specific prohibited sites, but this is a reactive measure rather than a blanket ban. In 2023, the government introduced the Online Safety Bill, which aims to improve online safety for children by requiring platforms to implement age-verification tools and remove harmful content. This bill is currently progressing through Parliament. The petition seeks a much stronger outcome than the current legislative path, which focuses on regulation and age-gating rather than a complete ban on commercial pornography.

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