Australia’s “strategic personality” in a changing world

Beyond the tourist images of barbecues and beaches, what is Australia’s ‘personality’ in international affairs, and how might that change in the future?

Assessing China’s soft power in the Pacific

The fragility of Australian soft power in the Pacific has less to do with Chinese influence than a perception that Canberra has drifted away from the regional consensus on climate change, development priorities and economic relations.

Understanding the impact of Sri Lanka’s Easter bombings

The terror attacks in Sri Lanka that killed more than 300 people on 21 April have exposed the failings and dysfunction of the government in Colombo and the country’s leaders will need to act decisively to stop the attacks from fuelling inter-communal conflicts.

Will Australia gain or suffer from Britain’s Brexit morass?

The United Kingdom’s withdrawal from the European Union may eventually present opportunities for Australia. But, while much will depend upon the shape of the final withdrawal agreement, there are measures Australia could take now to develop future opportunities.

Australia and Indonesia can strengthen ASEAN

Entering ASEAN would help Australia shape the future of South East Asia in concert with the fast growing democracy of Indonesia.

Delving deeper after the ABC’s China investigations

The recent ABC documentary exposing China’s political interference in Australian affairs did little to question the effectiveness of this country’s foreign intervention laws.

Unfinished business – Russia’s war on Ukraine

Five years after Russia’s annexation of Crimea and proxy invasion of East Ukraine, the fears that Putin seeks further expansion of Russia’s boundaries are as real as ever.

Engaging Europe after Brexit

Australia’s engagement with Europe has traditionally been dominated by its relationship with the United Kingdom. After Brexit, Australia should look to forge stronger ties with Brussels and the continent.

Adani is a burning question for Australia-India relations

The Adani coal mine has provoked significant opposition in Australia but this resistance to what India sees as an essential project to help secure its energy future may have a lasting impact on Australia-India relations.

Women, mining and conflict in the Asia–Pacific

As our region grapples with the responsible management of natural resources, it’s critical that our policies and programming are rooted in advancing the women, peace and security agenda.

Can ‘revisionists’ rule the world?

A world disordered by the joint efforts of Russia and China to diminish US power and influence — accelerated by some of the US’s own actions — seems to be the near-term reality we’ll be living through.

Managing our post-election relationship with China

No matter who forms the next government, Australian policymakers will need to be flexible – and resourceful – in handling the rise of China in the Asia-Pacific region.