The democratisation movement that began in 1986 in the Philippines for greater decentralisation and local autonomy has been losing steam. Under the son of the president that led to the movement, democratisation looks set to weaken further if challenges are not addressed.

Jakarta’s new criminal code promises more conservatism and fewer rights for citizens. For many, it is a failure by the Indonesian House of Representatives to safeguard pluralistic democracy from corruption and anti-pluralist groups.

The United States is going through a profound transition to which there are only difficult and costly choices. In this latest book on America's political chaos, we are taken deep into the future of an unacceptable but perhaps unavoidable breakup of the union.  

This week in Australian foreign affairs: Albanese’s comments on China at the Woodford Folk Festival and the COVID-19 testing requirements for travellers coming from China.

This week in Australian foreign affairs: Australia-India Economic Cooperation Trade Agreement enters into force, and Marles’ comments at the Biennial Submarine Institute of Australia Conference.

With the potential to shift the world's commercial and and economic focus, it is about time Australia improved its ties with the African Continent. More ministerial trips are required, but the Labour party is off to a good start. 

Taiwan faces a range of economic and security challenges, but its advanced economy may prove its saving grace. Can semiconductors help keep Taiwan safe amid a rapidly changing geoeconomic landscape?

This fortnight in Australian foreign affairs: Wong travels to Beijing to meet with Wang Yi, Kevin Rudd appointed to Washington, Japan-Australia 2+2 Foreign and Defence Ministerial Consultations, and more.

The Biden administration's Indo-Pacific Economic Framework offers a balance against economic dependence on China. Whether it can be sustained long-term and without Congress is a question yet to be answered. 

The year 2022 has been a critical test for democratic nations. While there is some good news in the changes to political leadership and support for Ukraine, the ongoing challenges of climate change and food insecurity demonstrate that much of the battle is still ahead.