Director, External and Strategic Engagement, Family First New Zealand; Former Member of the New Zealand Parliament

Simon David O’Connor is a former member of New Zealand’s Parliament, having served for 12 years. During that time, he was a strong proponent of religious liberty, freedom of speech, and human rights. He initially chaired the Health Committee and then was the chair of the Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Committee. He currently runs a small consultancy that works with organizations such as Family First New Zealand—a pro-family and pro-life advocacy group. He hosts their regular podcast and also hosts online radio, writes a regular column for Substack called On Point, and maintains a strong social media presence on a range of issues. Mr. O’Connor earned a number of degrees from the University of Auckland, including a master’s degree in political philosophy and a bachelor’s degree in theology. He has a particular interest in human rights and ethics. He is married to Rachel and has five stepchildren and one foster child.