Misleading entertainment visuals on TikTok are more potent than hate speech content, making misinformation and disinformation harder to identify. The effect is subtle yet powerful.

Since the establishment of their diplomatic relations in 1974, Australia and Maldives have established close bilateral cooperation. Over the years, Canberra has become an important development partner, helping to build human resources through higher education cooperation and the development of good governance, infrastructure, and security.

The EU's Single Market allows unrestricted movement of goods, services, people, and capital among its members, making the EU Australia's third-largest trading partner. Recent years have seen efforts to strengthen EU-Australia cooperation, however diplomatic challenges, such as the submarine debacle, demonstrate an ongoing reserve. 

Xi Jinping has big dream for the Chinese military, with the invasion of Taiwan at the top of the list. Ongong turmoil with restructuring efforts however may impede progress as the grinding between political and security centres of gravity contintue to occur. 

For Timor-Leste’s economy, economic diversification is crucial to avoid fallout from a depleting Petroleum Fund. As one of the nation’s closest neighbours, Australia has a unique opportunity and responsibility to help promote and develop Timor’s tourism economy.

The first Pacific Banking Forum in July 2024 sought to enhance banking relationships in the Pacific but faced challenges, notably excluding Chinese participants. Efforts to reduce reliance on Chinese banking influence in the region are complicated by the significant economic ties between Pacific Island Countries (PICs) and China, highlighting the strategic and economic dilemmas inherent in shaping regional banking policies.

This week in Australian foreign affairs: Albanese Joins PMs from Canada and New Zealand in statement on Gaza; Wong launches Cable Connectivity and Resilience Centre; Wong in Tokyo for Quad Ministers Meeting; World Day against Trafficking in Persons, and more.

North Korean escapee arrivals to South Korea are at their lowest in over two decades, and they continue to face challenges with integrating into their new home. However, rising numbers of success stories prove the remarkable resilience and adaptability of this unique population.  

Helen Fry's book sheds light on the untold stories of women who defied barriers to excel in intelligence roles during the early to mid-20th century, challenging the male-dominated myths of espionage. Fry highlights the bravery, ingenuity, and resilience of these women, emphasising their significant but often overlooked contributions to intelligence work.

As the general elections in India were underway from April to June 2024, the country was also grappling with severe heatwaves, highlighting the critical need for effective climate policies. As the world’s third largest emitter of greenhouse gases, India’s climate strategy is at a critical juncture, balancing ambitious international commitments and domestic imperatives.