Articles by Oliver Hartwich

A TikTok activist claims New Zealand’s curriculum reform is scandalous, but overlooks evaluating policy effectiveness. This reflects a troubling shift from policy merit to scrutinizing proposers.

New Zealand’s economic crisis has spurred unified calls for immediate Reserve Bank rate cuts, but criticism is misplaced as the RBNZ strives for price stability amid fiscal policies that complicate recovery efforts.

New Zealand’s economy declined 0.9% in June, with criticism aimed at the Reserve Bank for high interest rates, though fiscal policies exacerbated inflation, complicating recovery efforts.

New Zealand struggles with stagnation due to indecisive governance and reliance on clichés. Real change requires bold decision-making to prioritize progress over appeasing all interests, fostering growth.

The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has faced unfair criticism during the recession, as its efforts to control inflation were undermined by conflicting government fiscal policies, highlighting the need for better coordination.

NATO’s response to Russian drones in Polish airspace was costly and ineffective, highlighting operational and political shortcomings, while Ukraine’s low-cost methods proved more efficient.

Over half of New Zealanders feel the country is headed in the wrong direction, noting a decline in trust for key institutions. Rebuilding this trust requires understanding and respect for institutional limits, emphasizing education and civic engagement to protect prosperity.

New Zealand’s economy shows contrasting realities: booming agricultural exports versus urban job losses, leading to government deficits amidst high trading conditions without financial reserves.