In the face of increased security threats, Nordic countries turn once again to total or defence models. Yet rebuilding these whole-of-society structures comes with structural as well as political and social challenges that will take both time and resources to overcome. 

Nicholas J. Cull highlights the importance of proactively preserving a nation’s public image. Debunking negative propaganda in retrospect might not be enough. 

The CAA act is a step in the wrong direction, both for Indian secularism and for regional harmony. It remains to be seen what ripple effects that may have within and outside India.  

Russians citizens are not a monolithic lot, unthinking or uncritical of the current regime. Yet many don't have the resources to leave, nor do many think there is a viable option to life outside of Russia - a land where roots are deep and the information space is strictly managed. 

More than eight million people require humanitarian assistance in Nigeria. In a bid to save civilians in one of the longest-running conflicts in West Africa, training is underway to prepare the next generation of Nigerian war surgeons. 

This week in Australian foreign affairs: new implications for AUKUS in Defence Trade Controls Amendment Act 2024; Marles responds to Trump criticism of Rudd; Wong issues joint statement calling out cyber attacks by China-state backed actors in the UK; new investment in regional tuberculosis treatment, and more.

As Europe heads to the polls in June, the consequential position of EU Commission President is being contested. How sure can Ursula von der Leyen be of a second term?  

Competition to set global standards in AI is heating up. Can the EU’s new AI Act follow the GDPR in influencing behaviour far beyond its borders?

The prevailing strategic culture in Australian foreign policy circles that view Pacific Island states in instrumental and paternalistic ways is unproductive. Moving forward, there must be active recognition of the agency of these actors and engagement with their key concerns — particularly climate change. 

Japan must actively engage in dialogue and cooperation with its neighbours, with regard to its 14,000 remote islands. These now stand at the cusp of Japan’s rearmament and a new age of relations with China.

Election prospects for Joe Biden are looking dimmer as the war in Gaza steadily worsens and the casualties of civilians increases. How will Americans vote on the Palestinian issue?