Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern Launches Centre of Research Excellence for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism

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By Pelumi Emmanuel

Published: June 3, 2022 | 8:27 AM GMT

He Whenua Taurikura, a Centre of Research Excellence for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism, was officially opened today by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.

“Implementing all of the recommendations of the Royal Commission of Inquiry report into the terrorist attack on Christchurch masjidain is a priority for the Government,” Jacinda Ardern said.

“We have ensured that the Centre of Excellence will go even further than the Commission’s recommendation to establish a programme to fund independent New Zealand-specific research on the causes of, and measures to prevent, violent extremism and terrorism.

“I am pleased to announce Professor Dr Joanna Kidman (Ngāti Maniapoto, Ngāti Raukawa) and Distinguished Professor Emeritus Paul Spoonley have been appointed Directors of the Centre to lead that work.
“Both Professors are renowned experts in their fields and will bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to their role as Directors.

“After the tragedy of 15 March it was clear to all New Zealanders that we had to do everything in our power to stop this ever happening again. I believe this Centre will help us to be a more resilient, inclusive and safer Aotearoa New Zealand,” Jacinda Ardern said.

In response to recommendation 14 of the Royal Commission of Inquiry report on the terrorist attack on a mosque in Christchurch, the National Centre of Research Excellence was formed. The Centre, which will support research at a range of universities across the country, will be based in Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington.

“He Whenua Taurikura goes beyond the report’s recommendation by establishing a dedicated Centre in addition to directly supporting research,” Lead Coordination Minister for the Royal Commission of Inquiry into the Terrorist Attack on the Christchurch Mosques Andrew Little said.

“This Centre will play a key role in bringing together research organisations, civil society, and government to research how to prevent and counter terrorism and violent extremism, with a focus on understanding diversity and promoting social cohesion”.

“I look forward to seeing the Centre deepen understanding and enrich public discussion on preventing and countering violent extremism,” Andrew Little said.

The Prime Minister also revealed the recipients of the He Whenua Taurikura Master’s Scholarships, which went to 11 postgraduate students from across Aotearoa New Zealand in the inaugural round.

The scholarships support research at a New Zealand university or tertiary institute that will contribute to the growth and maintenance of competence in the breadth, depth, and diversity of preventing and countering violent extremism.

“I congratulate our first Master’s Scholarship recipients and look forward to seeing their work contribute to making New Zealand a safer, more inclusive country for all,” Jacinda Ardern said.

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About Pelumi Emmanuel

Pelumi Emmanuel is an accomplished writer and journalist with over 15 years of experience in the industry. He is a passionate and dedicated professional who is committed to producing high-quality content that informs, engages, and entertains readers. Pelumi’s love for reading and writing is evident in his work, which has been read worldwide and has garnered him a loyal following. His journalistic expertise is matched only by his natural talent for storytelling, making his articles both informative and engaging. He lives in California, USA.