On Point

On Point

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Persia persists
Some reflections on the protests in Iran, and exploring the reasons why the usual activists, mainstream media, and others are disturbingly silent…
 • Simon O'Connor
Venezuela and moral equivalence
Do we really believe in the rightness of our values or are they just another set of values - morally equivalent as any other? The answer will ultimately…
 • Simon O'Connor
Here comes 2026
A few quick reflections on the year that has been, including my most popular Substacks as well as a heartfelt thanks to all who have been part of On…
 • Simon O'Connor
Blood on their hands
For too long, we have tolerated people calling for the very violence that occurred at Bondi Beach last night.
 • Simon O'Connor
Do as I say, not as I do
How did we reach a moment where a Prime Minister saying she wanted to punch another MP in the face is seen as acceptable by many?
 • Simon O'Connor
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The op-ed Stuff won't publish
 • Simon O'Connor
Grotesque
 • Simon O'Connor
Call it what it is
 • Simon O'Connor
Blood on their hands
 • Simon O'Connor
Now for the excuses
There will be many excuses from Zohran Mamdani once his policies fail, yet until we appreciate the reasons why he won, these excuses will succeed.
 • Simon O'Connor
Cold water
Politically, pouring ‘cold water’ onto challenging issues in New Zealand is common place – be it the recent police scandal or instances of foreign…
 • Simon O'Connor
Policing the police
Recent revelations around how some senior police officers acted is shining a spotlight on much needed reform and changes, including the Harmful Digital…
 • Simon O'Connor
Are whakapapa and citizenship the same?
I explore why one's ancestry and heritage are not the same as citizenship. I also ask, do we need the Waitangi Tribunal anymore?
 • Simon O'Connor
Freedoms exist to be exercised
My contribution to a recent legal symposium on religious freedom and belief, at BYU university in Utah.
 • Simon O'Connor
'Broadcasting' too wide a net
The Broadcasting Standards Authority (BSA) attempted overreach is just another example of bureaucratic and judicial hubris, and it is time for…
 • Simon O'Connor
A ceasefire of silence ...
When I visited the Gaza envelope earlier this year, I took one critical question with me and now I think I have an answer.
 • Simon O'Connor
On Point
On Point
Musings of a husband, step-father, and longtime student of philosophy and history. Also happen to be a former politician, including chairing New Zealand's Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Committee.
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