NZ set to pass tough anti cyber-bullying laws

The New Zealand Government has introduced a bill to Parliament that if passed will see cyber-bullies face possible jail sentences.

“Many New Zealanders share my serious concerns about this problem as the reach and impact of bullying has increased considerably in the digital age," said the NZ Justice Minister Judith Collins in a statement.

“These new measures send a clear message to cyber bullies: Time’s up. Your behaviour is not acceptable,” said Ms Collins about the proposed laws that are expected to pass parliament.

Under the proposed laws:

• Individuals can face a $NZ2,000 fine or three months jail for sending messages or posting material online that is grossly offensive, indecent, obscene, menacing or knowingly false.
• A new agency will be formed to handle complaints.
• There will be a new offence of incitement to commit suicide punishable by up to three years jail, even if a person does not attempt to take their own life.

The NZ independent non-profit organisation Netsafe also has published a guide for teachers on how to handle cyber-bullying.