New Zealand: Implemented Harmful Digital Communications Act 2015

On 3 July 2015, the Harmful Digital Communications Act 2015 was implemented. This legislation aims to address harmful digital communications, establishing guidelines for online content hosts and providing mechanisms for individuals to report and resolve complaints about digital content. The Governor-General can appoint an Approved Agency under the Act, specifying its functions and terms, provided the appointee is suitably qualified. The Agency's duties include receiving, assessing, and investigating complaints about harm caused by digital communications, resolving issues through various means, and collaborating with service providers. The Agency can refuse or cease investigations on trivial or non-harmful complaints and must inform complainants of their right to seek a District Court order if further action is deemed unnecessary. The Agency is subject to various Acts, including the Ombudsmen Act and the Official Information Act. Part 2 of the Harmful Digital Communications Act 2015 amends various laws to address digital communication offences, including criminalizing incitement of suicide, expanding harassment definitions to include electronic communications, and incorporating digital contexts into racial and sexual harassment provisions. It also enhances privacy protections by restricting the offensive use and disclosure of personal information.