Microfinance – Micro gains?

Although microfinance is often hailed as an important step for women’s empowerment and economic independence in the developing world, research has yielded conflicting evidence on its practical effectiveness.

The past, present and future of APEC at 30

The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum is approaching its 30th year of work to foster cooperation in trade, investment and development in the Asia Pacific.

Charting Australia’s rocky course between the USA and China

Both the Morrison government and the Labor opposition are showing signs of finding a strategic path through this era of sturm und drang in Chinese-American relations.

As Brexit approaches, Germany and Australia should strengthen their ties

Canberra has usually approached the EU through the UK, but with Brexit becoming a reality, Australia will need to reach out to other European allies such as Germany if it’s to remain plugged into European policies.

An unsettled year for PNG

It was a mixed year for Papua New Guinea, with natural disasters, social and political unrest and the growing power of China casting a shadow over the country and its relations with Australia.

A rocky year ahead for Europe

It’s been a tumultuous 2018 in Europe, with Brexit straining Britain and the EU and Russia menacing its eastern borders. 2019 may offer some solutions, but could also see its problems worsening.

‘Human rights with Chinese characteristics’ aren’t human rights at all

Through its words and its deeds, the Chinese government is showing what it really is and how it intends to shape the world in the coming decades.

Australia should back a truly rules based international order

To respond effectively to the emerging multi-polar environment in international affairs, Australia should buttress its backing for its traditional alliances with undiscriminating support for international law.

China’s new era under Xi

Xi Jinping’s efforts to strengthen his personal hold on the Chinese communist party and the party’s ruthless control of the Chinese population have been matched only by his zeal to strengthen China’s influence abroad and dominate its neighbours.

Indonesia’s expanding horizons pose a question for Australia

Indonesia’s accelerating economic prosperity will see the country poised to take a leading role in the Indo-Pacific region. It’s time for Australia to refocus its Indonesia priorities.

Australia–China relations: who’s in the dark?

Australia is wrestling with its relationship with the Chinese regime, looking to reap economic rewards while remaining wary of China’s expansionist ambitions and opposed to its ruthless oppression of its population.

The implications of China’s “Belt and Road” initiative can’t be ignored

Now five years into its existence, China’s Belt and Road Initiative appears to be attracting both new supporters and opponents on a daily basis.