China's Attack on Democratic Freedom

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | 04 JUNE | MEDIA RELEASE

China's Sanctions on New Zealand MPs Are an Attack on Democratic Freedom

Headline after headline, we've watched the Chinese Embassy attack New Zealand MPs simply for standing alongside the people of Taiwan.

Now, in an unprecedented move, China has sanctioned four New Zealand MPs for visiting Taiwan.

PILLAR Executive Director Nathan Seiuli says the move represents a serious escalation in Beijing's attempts to influence New Zealand's political environment.

"This is not diplomacy. It is intimidation. China is attempting to pressure elected representatives, undermine democratic decision-making, and interfere in New Zealand's sovereign affairs."

China may believe its economic influence places it above the standards expected of democratic nations. It does not.

"No amount of trade, investment, or political leverage should exempt any foreign government from scrutiny when it seeks to influence New Zealand's democracy," said Seiuli.

According to PILLAR, the sanctions are the latest example of a broader pattern of foreign interference concerns emanating from Beijing.

"Let's be clear: this behaviour is not subtle. It is not misunderstood. It is a direct signal that Beijing views New Zealand as a piece on its geopolitical chessboard, just as it increasingly views the wider Pacific."

Seiuli says New Zealand's political leaders must reject any attempt by foreign governments to dictate who MPs can engage with.

"New Zealand is a free, democratic nation. Our MPs should be free to engage with whomever they choose without fear of foreign threats, sanctions, or coercion."

PILLAR has recently submitted its Foreign Influence Transparency (FIT) Bill, designed to strengthen protections against foreign interference and increase transparency around foreign influence activities.

"The FIT Bill is about safeguarding New Zealand's democratic institutions. Kiwis deserve confidence that decisions made in Wellington are being made in New Zealand's interests, not under pressure from foreign powers," said Seiuli.

PILLAR is calling on all Members of Parliament, particularly those involved with the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC), to publicly condemn the sanctions and support stronger foreign influence protections.

"We are calling on MPs to denounce this behaviour, refuse to apologise for standing up for democratic values, and support meaningful reforms that protect New Zealand's sovereignty."

Seiuli says the country must be willing to stand up for its democratic principles, regardless of economic pressure.

"A free nation does not take orders from foreign governments. If New Zealand is to remain free, democratic, and self-determining, we must have the courage to act like it."

ENDS

Media Contact | Nathan Seiuli | +64 21 485 449