Australia should be a regional leader on youth, peace and security

The UN-led Youth, Peace and Security agenda highlights the benefits of working with youth to address violence and insecurity globally. Australia’s foreign policy is behind the curve when it comes to recognising and partnering with young people for positive change.

Press censorship clouds the Asia-Pacific

The Chinese model of state-controlled news and suppression of free speech and information is being copied in other countries in Asia and the Pacific, threatening democracy and civil society.

Lessons for the WPS agenda in the Solomon Islands

Women’s rights in the Solomon Islands remain poor, despite Australia’s efforts to promote the UN ‘Women, Peace and Security’ agenda in the region.

#OurTimeNow: Pacific feminists create new spaces to talk and to be heard

Civil organisations and alliances play a crucial role in advocating for a more inclusive approach in policy making around the world. Initiatives such as the Pacific Feminist Forum have made a significant impact by enabling a wide range of voices to be heard.

Aid, influence and ‘strategic anxiety’ in the Pacific

Australia is concerned about China’s increased engagement with the South Pacific. However, while Australia does have a long history of fretting about great-power intrusion into the region, its concerns may also be influenced by alliance considerations.

PNG picks itself up after the earthquake

Anton Lutz, an American missionary in Mougulu, offers an eye witness account of recovery and aid efforts on the border of Western Province and Hela, the epicentre of the PNG earthquake in February.

Hollow hegemon: Australia’s declining influence in the Pacific

Australia has vastly more material resources than its Pacific neighbours, but its long presumed ‘natural right to lead’ in the region is under threat as other powers seek influence and Pacific nations reassess their alliance options.

China makes its play for the Pacific

China is denying reports it wants a naval base on Vanuatu but growing Chinese power and influence in the region underlines the need for effective Australian steps to strengthen Western influence.

It’s time for a fresh start with ASEAN

Australia’s muddled relationship with ASEAN has cost the country exports and influence. The holding of the first Australia–ASEAN Special Summit in March 2018 offers a chance to get things right.

South Australian incubator is #1 in the Asia Pacific

A university incubator based in Australia’s first innovation hub has been named the ‘Top Challenger in the Asia-Pacific’ in a leading international survey.