A former member of New Zealand's Broadcasting Standards Authority (BSA) has warned that the government's decision to abolish the regulator removes one of the few avenues for the public to challenge harmful media content.
Media and Communications Minister Paul Goldsmith announced the move, stating that the media landscape has evolved significantly since the BSA was established. The government plans to replace the BSA with a new, streamlined regulatory framework.
The former member, who spoke on condition of anonymity, expressed concern that the change introduces 'political risk' by potentially reducing independent oversight of broadcast content. The BSA currently handles complaints about radio, television, and on-demand services.
Critics argue that the new system may lack the same level of independence and accessibility for ordinary citizens. The government has not yet provided full details of the replacement framework.
