New Zealanders Quit Spotify, Substack Over Ethical Concerns

A growing number of New Zealanders are leaving popular platforms like Spotify and Substack due to ethical concerns surrounding their business practices. Notable figures such as Green MP Tamatha Paul and journalist David Farrier have publicly announced their decisions to withdraw from these billion-dollar companies. Their departures stem from issues including investments in military technology, the use of artificial intelligence, and inadequate content moderation.

In June 2023, Daniel Ek, CEO and co-founder of Spotify, revealed through his venture capital firm, Prima Materia, that he is investing €600 million (approximately $1.18 billion) in Helsing, a German start-up focused on developing advanced weaponry for military applications. Ek, who also serves as chairman of Helsing, had previously invested $197.3 million in the company in 2021. He stated, “As Europe rapidly strengthens its defence capabilities in response to evolving geopolitical challenges, there is an urgent need for investments in advanced technologies that ensure its strategic autonomy and security readiness.”

Since this announcement, the backlash has intensified, leading several musicians to quit Spotify. Among them are the Australian bands King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard and Dr Sure’s Unusual Practice, as well as artists Leah Senior and David Bridie. The exodus includes Kiwis, with MP Paul, who represents Wellington Central and is affiliated with Ngāti Awa and Waikato Tainui, alongside the Auckland melodic hardcore band Take Hold, withdrawing their participation from the platforms.

The decisions made by these prominent figures highlight a growing trend among consumers becoming increasingly aware of the ethical implications of their digital choices. Many users are reassessing their relationships with major platforms, questioning whether their values align with those of the companies they support.

As more individuals contemplate the impact of their subscriptions, the question remains: how will these departures affect the platforms in the long term? The music and content creation industries are already experiencing significant shifts, and this movement could signal a broader change in consumer behavior.

In an era where corporate responsibility is under scrutiny, the actions of New Zealanders like Paul and Farrier may inspire others globally to evaluate their own associations with large tech platforms. The ongoing relationship between investors, technology, and ethical considerations will likely continue to shape the landscape of digital platforms in the future.