Coercive control and cultic influence remain widely misunderstood, often leaving survivors without the recognition, resources or justice they deserve. The Decult Conference was launched to help change that. Decult 2024 provided a much-needed space for in-depth conversations on the social, psychological and systemic issues surrounding cult involvement and recovery. Bringing together survivors, experts and advocates, the Decult Conference is not just about raising awareness—it’s about driving real change in how we understand, support and protect those affected by high-control groups.
Decult is committed to increasing awareness, reducing stigma and securing tangible support for those impacted. As a volunteer-run charity, we’re building networks and creating resources to educate those who want to minimise cultic harm.
19–20 OCT 2024
Tūranga Central Library
Ōtautahi | Christchurch
Aotearoa | New Zealand
Dr Janja Lalich, an internatianal expert on cults and coercion and Professor Emerita of Sociolog delivered a powerful keynote on cult dynamics, control tactics and survivor recovery. She unpacks historical tragedies, debunks myths and calls for better research and advocacy. A must-watch for those seeking to understand the power dynamics at play in cultic environments.
Dr Gillie Jenkinson is an award-winning psychotherapist from the UK who walked the audience through the different phases of post-cult recovery, based on her groundbreaking workbook ‘Walking Free from the Trauma of Coercive, Cultic and Spiritual Abuse’. A beacon of hope and a lesson in help.
The highlight of the conference where former members of high-control groups shared their journeys of escape, resilience and healing through through personal stories, art, music and spoken word. A raw and inspiring session, led by Lindy Jacomb, that highlights the courage of those reclaiming their lives.
An exciting side project emerged from our small hui with a big impact: The fully crowdfunded documentary Decult Voices – Beyond Belief. It weaves together raw, unscripted insights from cult survivors, mental health professionals, human rights advocates, authors, journalists and academic experts who attended Decult 2024.
DECULT TALKS is a 12-part series of “Best Of” presentations and panels from the sold-out Decult 2024 conference. Tune in on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Amazon Music and Plains Media.
“As someone raised in a notorious cult, I spent years burdened by shame and secrecy. Decult was an incredible experience, and amidst the pain were inspiring stories of hope and resilience. The survivor-focused approach of the organisers and speakers was truly impactful. Shame dies when stories are shared in safe places.”
Maria Esguerra, Psychologist and Cult Survivor
“The Decult 2024 conference was the most amazing and rewarding event I’ve attended in my 40 years in this field. The variety of presentations was beyond educational. The atmosphere was calm yet bubbling with excitement and people making professional and personal connections. Decult is an inspiration and a model for the future!”
Dr. Janja Lalich | Founder & CEO of the Lalich Center on Cults and Coercion
“Let’s decult our communities and shine a light on the physical and mental health risks of cults. Supporting Decult means decreasing the power and influence of coercive, controlling groups that cause severe harm to thousands of New Zealanders, especially children born and raised in them. I’m impressed that a small charity has raised so much public awareness. Ka pai!”
Dame Sue Bagshaw, Youth Health Doctor
“It was a privilege to participate in the Decult Conference and give it my support. Identifying controlling organisations and providing pathways out for those who are seeking them is important. There is a lot of work to do to make sure that the conduct of such entities is within the law – and also understanding what we as citizens should do for those affected. Decult is part of that work.”
Dr Duncan Webb, MP for Christchurch Central
“The conference facilitated such a safe and supportive environment for those of us who have had exposure to cultic spaces. For the first time, I felt that my experiences were recognised on a bigger scale. Decult really is the start of something that could positively impact many people.”
Luke Hollis, psychology student and former Jehovah’s Witness
Therapists, social workers, and legal professionals need better training in coercive control, trauma recovery and high-control groups. Cult survivors often struggle to find informed support, highlighting the need for specialized education in professional certifications and university programs.
Misinformation and sensationalism around cults obscure the realities of coercive control. More effort is needed to educate the public, journalists and policymakers on the complexities of high-control groups, challenging harmful narratives and providing clearer resources for those at risk.
Many survivors face financial exploitation, coercion and systemic neglect without legal recourse. There is an urgent need for stronger policies recognizing coercive control as a form of abuse, better protections for children in cults, and greater government accountability in addressing high-control groups.
Survivors and professionals need trauma-informed environments where they can engage in open discussions without fear of judgment or retraumatization. These spaces should be inclusive, culturally diverse, and designed to foster healing, education and advocacy.
Leaving a cult is only the first step in recovery. Survivors need long-term access to peer-led support groups, trauma-informed therapists, and financial assistance to rebuild their lives, ensuring they are not left isolated or vulnerable.
Coercive control is not limited to religious cults. Survivors of political, commercial, wellness and self-help cults, as well as abusive family structures, need recognition and support. Broadening the conversation will help address coercive tactics across all forms of high-control environments.
Decult 2024 received extensive media coverage before, during and after the event, both across New Zealand, Australia, and beyond.
PODCAST APPEARANCES
Decult speakers and representatives appeared in renowned podcasts such as A Little Bit Culty, IndoctriNation, The Influence Continuum, Cult Chat and more.
MEDIA MENTIONS
SUPPORT NETWORK
The 2024 Decult conference was made possible by
Support Decult 2026 | Contribute here
MESSAGE FROM THE ORGANISER
Decult has become more than a conference. Our first event in 2024 was a groundbreaking moment in New Zealand for cult recovery, survivor visibility and advocacy. Those who joined us in person and online gave us overwhelmingly positive feedback: They felt seen, heard and understood – some for the first time in their life. Attendees engaged in rich discussions and met world-leading experts. This impact has rippled outwards.
This is just the beginning. Whether through continued public discourse, survivor-centric media and professional training for support workers, the momentum we build together will carry forward.
Thank you to everyone who is making this possible by supporting our volunteer work. We look forward to seeing you at Decult 2026!
Spiritual abuse occurs when religious or spiritual beliefs are manipulated to control, frighten or harm someone. It can silence questioning, enforce submission and exploit faith for power. Survivors often face deep emotional and psychological scars.
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