NZ’s floated social media ban for under‑16s could unite two groups that rarely agree

The useful part

Normally, libertarians and social justice campaigners occupy different political worlds. National's push for a social media ban for under-16s has produced a surprising possibility in New Zealand politics. In an era of growing polarisation, both major parties appear broadly aligned on restricting young people's access to social media, even as they disagree on many other issues.

How it works

• Prime minister Christopher Luxon has repeatedly sought bipartisan backing, while Labour leader Chris Hipkins has signalled openness to an Australian-style approach.
• If a ban moves forward, opposition is unlikely to divide neatly along left-right lines.
• Instead, it may draw together an unusual collection of critics who rarely find themselves in agreement.
• The Act Party has raised concerns about privacy, age verification and government overreach.
• The Green party has focused on unequal effects, particularly for young people who rely on online spaces for community, information and support.

Details worth keeping

Yet the more interesting political story may lie elsewhere. These unusual alliances reflect a fault line that cuts acr...