11 June 2025

Coming Together or Drifting Apart? Social Cohesion

Shamubeel Eaqub leads a Spirited Conversation on the latest research on social cohesion in Aotearoa and how it compares with our Aussie neighbours.

As Aotearoa navigates increasing social, political and economic threats, the need for strong, connected and inclusive societies has never been greater. The opposite of social cohesion is polarisation. Are we in good shape or is our social fabric fraying? 

Shamubeel Eaqub will lead this Spirited Conversation on his latest research for the Helen Clark Foundation, which, for the first time, provides an overview of the elements underlying social cohesion in Aotearoa. It's the glue that holds our society together, but right now our social bonds are under strain. This new research reveals, compared to our Australian neighbours, we are falling behind on key measures of inclusion and belonging. But there’s also hope – and actions we can take to build a more inclusive Aotearoa.

Shamubeel Eaqub is chief economist at Simplicity, and principal author of this trail-blazing research, Social Cohesion in New Zealand. Shamubeel is an author, media commentator and thought leader, with over two decades experience in leading international banks and consultancies. Most importantly he is a very clear communicator and makes economics easy and fun. Shamubeel will lead this interactive session live online.

This seminar is part of a series of monthly Spirited Conversations hosted by Durham Street Methodists, as part of our commitment to bringing critical thinking, and ethical & spiritual insights to important issues of the day for our city and its diverse people.

Free
Show on map

As Aotearoa navigates increasing social, political and economic threats, the need for strong, connected and inclusive societies has never been greater. The opposite of social cohesion is polarisation. Are we in good shape or is our social fabric fraying? 

Shamubeel Eaqub will lead this Spirited Conversation on his latest research for the Helen Clark Foundation, which, for the first time, provides an overview of the elements underlying social cohesion in Aotearoa. It's the glue that holds our society together, but right now our social bonds are under strain. This new research reveals, compared to our Australian neighbours, we are falling behind on key measures of inclusion and belonging. But there’s also hope – and actions we can take to build a more inclusive Aotearoa.

Shamubeel Eaqub is chief economist at Simplicity, and principal author of this trail-blazing research, Social Cohesion in New Zealand. Shamubeel is an author, media commentator and thought leader, with over two decades experience in leading international banks and consultancies. Most importantly he is a very clear communicator and makes economics easy and fun. Shamubeel will lead this interactive session live online.

This seminar is part of a series of monthly Spirited Conversations hosted by Durham Street Methodists, as part of our commitment to bringing critical thinking, and ethical & spiritual insights to important issues of the day for our city and its diverse people.

Location
Aldersgate, 309 Durham Street North, Christchurch Central

Other events you may be interested in

Takiuru ki ā mātou ratonga
Log in to our services