Citizen diplomacy is reshaping global politics as ordinary individuals take on more active roles in advocating for democratic values and influencing international affairs. Sparked by Barack Obama’s call to action, this movement challenges traditional state-centric diplomacy and demands greater accountability from political leaders.

In this election, voter attention is focused on issues that influence both daily life and Australia’s long-term direction. This evolving political landscape is being shaped by widespread demand for meaningful change, particularly among younger voters who are expressing growing dissatisfaction with the status quo.

2025 is an election year for both Australia and South Korea. 3 May is when Australians share their democracy sausage; for South Korea, after the traumatic martial law declared by former President Yoon Suk Yeol and his impeachment, the nation is preparing for an early election on 3 June.

The political and economic fallout in Canada following Donald Trump’s imposition of tariffs in 2024–25 highlights how his actions have disrupted trade, strained US-Canada relations, and reshaped Canadian domestic politics. As a policy, the tariffs have destabilised traditional alliances, fuelled internal political upheaval, and forced Canada to reassess its economic dependence on the United States.

As the College of Cardinals prepare for the conclave to replace Pope Francis, the geopolitical implications of their decision cannot be underestimated. In an era of escalating global tensions and internal Church challenges, the next pontiff must be both a spiritual leader and a statesman capable of shaping a vision for peace and ethical global governance.

Donald Trump’s tariff policies have disproportionately impacted ASEAN economies, disrupting exports, deterring investment, and straining US-ASEAN trade ties. To navigate these challenges, ASEAN countries are exploring diversification, regional integration, and domestic reforms to enhance resilience and reduce vulnerability to protectionist shocks.

India is increasingly using arms exports as a strategic tool to enhance its diplomatic influence, strengthen regional partnerships, and assert itself as a rising global power. The current government has linked defence manufacturing with foreign policy to build national capacity, counter rivals like China and Pakistan, and elevate its international standing.

India’s role in the Maldives’ security is indispensable. By aligning its external partnerships with India’s regional strategy, the Maldives can ensure mutual security without compromising its sovereignty.

The United States (US) would be best placed to adopt a Cyber Maze framework, advocating a flexible, layered strategy to counter China’s evolving cyber operations. This would involve focusing on adaptability over rigid deterrence, and emphasing proactive defence, resilience, and diplomacy to manage risks without escalating conflict.

This week in Australian foreign affairs: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pays tribute to Pope Francis; and Foreign Minister Penny Wong calls on Israel to end the blockade of Gaza.