The AIM Network, Author at The AIM Network

Semitic semantics

April 27, 2024
Written by: The AIM Network
3 Replies

By Bert Hetebry

Where did the term ‘Semitic’ come from and what did it mean?

Look closely and see how mythology defines people in a very real way, marking their difference, no matter how small, as different, a means of judging, marginalising or inclusion, allowing for life or death over a definition of unprovable origin.

The Biblical story of Noah’s Flood is one of the destruction and rebuilding of the descendants of Adam and Eve, the first humans, created in God’s image.

Just a brief overview. the descendants of Adam and Eve proliferated, and the man ones saw that the woman ones were beautiful. So they married them, that is, engaged in sexual pleasure seeking with them, because no man can resist a beautiful woman, oh that women were born ugly so not able to tempt weak willed men!

And the Nephilim saw all the fun that was being had and joined in… and who were the Nephilim? Ah mythology is so much fun, it seems that the Nephilim were evil people, fallen people, perhaps even fallen angels jealous of God’s newest creation, humans. They do appear time and again in the Old Testament as the source of sin and alienation from God, a testament to the people of God to remain faithful or death and destruction is bound to follow.

Anyway, let’s continue with Noah, the flood and its aftermath. That mythology is a bit easier to follow.

So God was displeased with what he saw was happening, people were having way too much fun and too busy to recognise all the good things He had done for them, so he decided that everyone had to go, kill them all, drown them and everything else He had earlier said was so good. But He changed His mind because there was one family that was still faithful to Him and they would be saved, start over, a small family and a breeding pair of all the animals would rebuild that which God was about to destroy.

Noah and his three sons, Shem, Ham and Japheth, warned of the coming deluge dutifully built an ark, herded the animals on board and together with their wives survived the forty days and nights of the worst rain storm imaginable, even worse than the flooding due to climate change we are witnessing today, such a deluge that it took a hundred days for the waters to receded and a new land to emerge from the waters.

As it is when we put men and women together, or even males and females of any species, somehow, they breed and the descendants of Noah and his sons and their wives did just that so prolifically that they formed the foundation of three distinct ‘nation’ groups, Semites, Hamites and Japhetites which spread out across what we now call the Middle East. I know, the world is a little larger than the Middle East, but mythology is not always (or is that ever) logical.

Anyway, lots of different family group grew side by side over time and did not always get along too well with each other and through the various groupings we end up with Abraham who was originally called Abram leave the Mesopotamian city of Ur with his wife and a few servants on camels which were not known to be used for domesticated for another 600 or so years, to wend his way to what today is known as Israel, or Palestine. The people of Mesopotamia were descendants of Shem, and that language group became known as Semites. The people who Abraham, yes he was Abraham by that time, he had had a bit of a fight with God, finished off with a limp an new expanded version of his name and a newfound virility in his old age, to finally sire two sons, one with his wife and the other with his wife’s maid servant, were also descendants of Shem, also Semites, but from various of Shem’s sons, and so were a kind of substrata of Semites.

Phew.

We need to move on a bit through both history and unfolding mythologies to finally get to where this confusion over the meaning of Semite and Antisemite comes from.

Abraham’s children were pretty prolific breeders, eventually giving birth the three Abrahamic religions, Judaism, Christianity and Islam, each of which grew into numerous sects and divisions, causing more than enough conflict of who or what God is and what that all means, but a telling moment in time was around 90CE.

The Roman Empire ruled over a vast area, from present day England to Egypt and into the Mediterranean Basin, into the Byzantine and well into the Arabian Peninsula. They ruled through governors and the presence of the largest military force yet known in history. And in about 90CE a group of religious leaders and intellectuals kicked up a bit of a fuss in the remote city of Jerusalem. They had their own, different religion and did not think it right to bow down to the invaders and make sacrifices in the form of taxes to their supreme leader, the Ceasar, their God. They would only bow down to their own God the creator God. So, there was a bit of a kerfuffle, their temple was sacked, destroyed and a few people had their noses put out of joint, were expelled from the city, oh more than that, expelled from the Empire.

That was the beginning of the Jewish Diaspora.

It needs to be noted and probably underlined, highlighted with bright fluorescent hi light markers that it was the Jewish religious leaders who were expelled. Not the every day, hardworking Jewish carpenter, fisherman, farmer and so forth. They were needed to provide food and labour for the Roman overlords. Listening to the tales of the Diaspora one would easily believe that all Jewish people left, but as the Israel historian Shlomo Sand points out in his book The Invention of the Jewish People, it, throughout history has been that only the leaders, the thinkers, the religious leaders posed a danger to the authority of an invading Imperial force, the invaded people were invariably farmers, fishermen, graziers, food producers and the invaders needed food to feed their armies.

A modern-day example was the invasion of the Netherlands by Germany in 1940. The Netherlands were one of the invaded breadbaskets to feel the Nazi war machine.

And so the rabbis and priests left, travelled north and into Eastern Europe, taking with them their religion, proselytising, converting ‘heathens’ to the promise of salvation from their sins, spreading Judaism into the region, and conflicting with the various political and religious changes which occurred through the following two thousand or so years, constantly living on the edge of the mainstream wherever they went.

The original rabbis and priests would have been defined as Semite. They were, according to the mythology referred to, descendants of Shem. The new converts not so much. The biblical lineage or mythology does not seem to consider their origins, but they were not Semitic peoples, the ones remaining, farming the land and two thousand years later looking through the fence surrounding Gaza, enclosing them from their traditional lands, the Palestinians may actually have a stronger claim to the term Semite than the new settlers who have come from Europe to claim the Zionist Homeland.

So it is interesting to have the term Antisemitic being used when it is seen actually misused, a complete inversion of the original meaning of the term.

It was in my mind to use the word ‘sorry’ in concluding because I have played loosely with a mythology, even dared to call mythology what is foundational to what many believe to be the foundational stories of their faith/s, but no, I am not sorry at all when I see those faith/s being used as an excuse for genocide, as an excuse to assert some kind of exceptionalism that leads to acts of terror against those who do not share a particular interpretation of that mythology, that devalues lives which are contrary to the lives the religious fundamentalists insist on to the point that they can be sent off to their final judgement, to face the eternal punishments for non-adherence to mythological beliefs.

And to so misuse the term Semite to render it an obtuse meaning, complete reversal of what it is just another obscenity on the bizarre nature of conflict over unprovable claims of righteous superiority which allows so much suffering for others.

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Australian Futures: Conventional Strategic Wisdom Versus the Long Economic March?

April 27, 2024
Written by: The AIM Network
10 Replies

By Denis Bright

The strategic game of Chinese checkers has replaced the warm handshakes between neoliberal leaders and the leaders of Chinese government in the late Cold War era. Like the other member states of the US Global Alliance, Australia continues to combine renewed commercial ties with China with support for the strategic rivalries associated with the AUKUS deal.

Something must give way in this charade. Secretary of State Antony Blinken outlined his demands to Chinese leaders on a recent visit. For the present, token levels of co-operation to paper over differences associated with technological support offered by China to assist Russia and US defence and technological support to Taiwan.

Like the Biden administration, the Albanese Government inherited a new era in strategic policy from another age which was taken up with relish by the military brass and the intelligence establishment.

Just three years ago Australia’s Scott Morrison was invited by the G7 Chair, Boris Johnston, to the summit in Cornwall between 11-13 June 2021. This time Australia is not currently on the invitation list from Italian Prime Minister Meloni to the 50^th G7 Summit near Bari between 13-15 June 2024.

Even prior to the forthcoming G7 Summit, member states have all telegraphed their support for Ukraine with moral support, more armaments and use of Russia’s frozen assets to support in the continued war effort.

With US public opinion divided on the value of more support to Ukraine, the Biden administration is attempting to some progressive accord with voters. Readers can check on the transition in US global economic policies in this FT video:

Polling in the US presidential election race is still tight. Anything could happen in the next six months including the withdrawal of Joe Biden on health grounds as his 82^nd birthday approaches just after the election date in November 2024.

Leaders in both Australia and the US are their own re-election strategies. Should the Democratic Party be returned to the White House, expect some cooling off in the Chinese checkers game if the new administration gains a working majority in both houses of congress to diffuse the polarization of every major policy issue.

Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers is quite candid in admitting the implications of tensions with China on the stability of the global economy:

Dr Chalmers warned of a “fraught and fragile” global outlook, citing slower growth forecasts for China, the United Kingdom and Japan in the May federal budget. Returning from Washington on Sunday, his meetings were dominated by the dual risks of the war in Gaza spilling into a broader regional conflict with Israel’s missile strikes on Iran and China’s deteriorating property market.

“Events in the Middle East are casting a shadow over the global economy, compounding the concerns about lingering inflation and weaker growth,” Dr Chalmers said. The exception to the global outlook is the United States, where the IMF last week said the economy remained “overheated,” adding to expectations interest rates would be higher for longer.

There are some uncanny parallels between the moderating role of the Democratic Party during the Great War (1914-18) and the future situation in global politics today in the current tensions with China. Nations can sleep-walk not extended armed conflicts. Although the isolationist Woodrow Wilson’s administration gained a second term in office in 1916 with a majority in both houses of congress, the sinking of the passenger liner Lusitania off Ireland on 7 June 1915 which created a groundswell of pro-war settlement.

Incidents like these can take place on the high seas in the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait as rival vessels engage in daring maneuvers at a time when China desperately wants to keep its sea lanes open to global trade. This is the lifeblood of a thriving Chinese economy which always depends on freedom of navigation and BRI investment programmes.

The warnings from Bob Carr and Gareth Evans need to be taken seriously:

“The unhappy reality is that nations can sleepwalk into war, even when rational, objective self-interest on all sides cries out against it.

Bellicose nationalist rhetoric, designed for domestic political consumption, can generate overreactions elsewhere. Small provocations can generate an escalating cycle of larger reactions. Precautionary defence spending can escalate into a full-blown arms race. With more nervous fingers on more triggers, small incidents can escalate into major crises.

And major crises can explode into all-out war – creating, in this nuclear age, existential risks not only for its participants but life on this planet as we know it.

All this means that the time is ripe for reinforcing and consolidating the gains to ensure that they are not just fleeting and transitory. What is needed is an overt commitment from both the US and China – not just rhetorically – to living cooperatively, together, both regionally and globally, in an environment where both sides respect each other as equals and neither claims to be the undisputed top dog.

Such an accommodation is not the stuff of fantasy. We have been there before. The detente between the US and the Soviet Union, negotiated by Richard Nixon and Leonid Brezhnev, lasted through the 1970s. It delivered major arms control treaties and the Helsinki accords.”

Even major players like Britain at the G7 Summit want China’s current economic adjustments from the property market crash to become a strategic weapon to break the global profile of the Chinese economy.

Genuine apologists for China like Bob Carr and Gareth Evans point to its pragmatic commitment of its high growth economy to third world development and BRI Initiatives for our region. Such initiative will surely do more for global investment flows to assist with sustainable development than fleets of nuclear-powered submarines.

The tragedy of all these restrictions is even more alarming when they are being imposed on the world’s emergent largest economy. The proactive stance of countries like Italy in calling for more strategic controls is made even more outrageous when it comes from a stagnant economy with an unemployment rate of 7.3 percent that tolerates the presence of nuclear missiles on land and on visiting naval vessels.

Even development assistance from China to PNG or the Solomon Islands is perceived to be a threat to our own security. According to feedback from reliable media monitoring conducted by Google Bard, China has been offering health assistance to PNG since 2002 to assist with vaccinations and the training of medical personnel and controlling infectious diseases. One in twenty-four PNG infants do not survive their first year of life. Preventable diseases like pneumonia and diarrhoea are embedded in the routine hazards of life, particularly in remote areas.

Once again, regional countries are encouraged to take sides in the current strategic and trading disputes across the Indo Pacific Basin.

Further north in Laos, new freight and passenger routes from China to South East Asian countries must surely compare favourably with the saturation bombing of Laos in the previous Cold War era.

Denis Bright (pictured) is a financial member of the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA). Denis is committed to consensus-building in these difficult times. Your feedback from readers advances the cause of citizens’ journalism. Full names are not required when making comments. However, a valid email must be submitted if you decide to hit the Replies Button.

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World Peace: Australia’s Role in Global Demilitarization

April 27, 2024
Written by: The AIM Network
4 Replies

By Denis Hay

Description:

Discover how Australia can be a role model for world peace, utilizing currency sovereignty to lead global disarmament initiatives effectively.

The Call for World Peace

In a world marred by conflict and division, the pursuit of world peace is still both a paramount goal and a formidable challenge. As global tensions escalate and the spectre of conflict looms large, the necessity for peace has never been more critical. Australia, with its historical commitment to peace and stability, is uniquely positioned to lead these efforts on the global stage.

The idea of world peace transcends mere diplomatic negotiations; it is about fundamentally reshaping international relations. This transformation involves a shift from competition to cooperation, from conflict to dialogue, and from suspicion to trust. With its diplomatic prowess and proven track record in peacekeeping, Australia can act as a role model, advocating for and implementing strategies that promote peaceful coexistence and global cooperation.

Given the complexity of today’s global conflicts, coupled with the destructive potential of modern warfare, the insanity and futility of war are clearer than ever. This context sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of how Australia can not only contribute to but also spearhead efforts towards global demilitarization and the fostering of an enduring peace. This pursuit is not just about avoiding conflict but about actively building a framework within which peace can flourish.

In embracing this role, Australia could lead by example, showing the world that peace is not only necessary but achievable through concerted effort and unwavering commitment. The journey toward global peace starts with recognizing the deep interconnectedness of our modern world and the shared benefits that peace brings to all humanity.

The Insanity and Futility of War

War, by its nature, is both devastating and destructive, affecting not just the immediate combatants but also the broader society, environment, and global stability for generations. Historical examples and personal stories vividly illustrate these impacts, underscoring the urgent need for a global shift towards peace and disarmament.

Historical Costs of Conflict

1. World War I and II: These global conflicts reshaped the world, costing millions of lives and altering the political landscape of nearly every continent. World War II alone resulted in an estimated 70-85 million fatalities, which constituted about 3% of the 1940 world population. The environmental destruction was immense, with bombings and military manoeuvres destroying ecosystems, polluting rivers, and devastating entire cities.

2. Vietnam War: Lasting from 1955 to 1975, this conflict not only caused the death and displacement of millions but also had severe environmental impacts. The U.S. military’s use of Agent Orange led to massive deforestation and long-term genetic damage, affecting generations of Vietnamese people and devastating biodiversity in the region.

3. The Chernobyl Disaster (1986): Although not a war event, the Chernobyl nuclear disaster highlights the potential catastrophic consequences of military-grade nuclear technology when things go awry. The environmental contamination rendered an entire region uninhabitable and caused numerous long-term health issues across Europe.

Personal Stories from Conflicts

1. Siege of Sarajevo (1992-1996): Through personal accounts from survivors like Zlata Filipović, who penned her experiences in Zlata’s Diary, the world saw the horrors of the longest siege in modern warfare. Civilians endured constant shelling and sniper attacks, leading to profound psychological and physical scars.

2. Syrian Civil War: Starting in 2011, this ongoing conflict has led to more than 500,000 deaths and displaced millions. Personal stories, such as those documented by Syrian civilians and refugees, paint a bleak picture of daily life under constant threat of bombings, with destroyed homes and lost family members. The environmental toll is also significant, with damaged infrastructure leading to water shortages and pollution.

3. Rwandan Genocide (1994): Over approximately 100 days, an estimated 800,000 people were slaughtered based on ethnic divisions. Personal narratives from survivors highlight the brutal nature of the conflict and its aftermath, including a society struggling to reconcile and rebuild itself amidst the deep scars left behind.

These examples illustrate not only the immediate and obvious costs of war but also the long-term, often less visible consequences. The loss of human life, the destruction of infrastructure, and the environmental degradation are profound, demonstrating the insanity and futility of war. The drive toward world peace is not just moral but essential for the sustainability of humanity and the planet. This historical perspective and the deeply personal stories of those affected emphasize the need for a global commitment to disarmament and a reinvigoration of diplomatic efforts to resolve conflicts peacefully.

Modern Examples of Military Failures

In recent decades, many military interventions touted as solutions to complex conflicts have not only failed to achieve their goals but have often exacerbated the problems they aimed to solve. These modern examples underline the inefficacy of military force in securing lasting peace and the critical need for alternative, non-violent approaches.

Iraq War (2003-2011)

The 2003 invasion of Iraq by the United States and its allies was initially intended to eliminate weapons of mass destruction and reduce terrorism threats. However, no such weapons were found, and the long-term effects included the destabilization of the region, the rise of extremist groups like ISIS, and a devastating humanitarian crisis. The war resulted in hundreds of thousands of civilian deaths and displaced millions, creating long-term instability in the Middle East. The failure to set up a stable, democratic government as promised underscores the limitations and dangers of using military force to impose political solutions.

Afghanistan Conflict (2001-2021)

The U.S.-led invasion of Afghanistan aimed to dismantle al-Qaeda and remove the Taliban from power to create a stable democratic state. Despite twenty years of military engagement, the longest in U.S. history, the results were deeply disappointing. The Taliban regained control shortly after the withdrawal of foreign troops, illustrating the transient effectiveness of military intervention without robust, sustainable, and culturally informed political structures. The enduring conflict has led to widespread suffering, with thousands of civilian casualties and millions displaced, highlighting the need for comprehensive diplomatic and developmental strategies rather than solely military ones.

Libyan Civil War (2011-present)

Following NATO’s military intervention in 2011, which helped overthrow dictator Muammar Gaddafi, Libya plunged into chaos and civil war. The intervention, while initially successful in its goal to assist in toppling the regime, failed to consider the aftermath and the country’s political future. This oversight led to power vacuums that were quickly filled by competing militant groups, resulting in ongoing violence and instability. The Libyan example is a stark reminder of the consequences of military intervention that lacks a clear, workable plan for post-conflict governance.

Syrian Civil War (2011-present)

International military involvement in Syria, including efforts by the United States, Russia, and other regional powers, has not only failed to bring an end to the conflict but has often worsened the humanitarian situation. Military strikes and support to various factions have complicated the war, making peaceful resolutions more challenging and leading to one of the worst humanitarian crises of the 21st century. This conflict proves the complexity of civil wars involving multiple factions and external actors, where military interventions without unified international strategies and respect for local dynamics prove counterproductive.

These modern examples of military failures dramatically illustrate the limitations of force to achieve peace and security. They highlight the urgent need for a global recommitment to diplomacy, conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and sustainable development as more effective and humane alternatives to warfare. These strategies not only address the root causes of conflicts but also promote long-term stability and resilience, proving far more effective in achieving genuine peace.

Australia’s Peacekeeping Legacy

Australia has a commendable history of contributing to international peacekeeping, which highlights its commitment to global stability and the resolution of conflicts through non-violent means. This legacy is a testament to Australia’s role on the world stage as a proponent of peace and cooperation.

Contributions to UN Missions

Australia’s involvement in United Nations peacekeeping operations began in 1947, with its participation in the military observer group in Indonesia. Since then, Australia has contributed over 65,000 personnel to more than 50 multinational peacekeeping operations, including significant roles in East Timor, Solomon Islands, and Cambodia. These contributions reflect Australia’s dedication to supporting international efforts aimed at keeping peace and rebuilding war-torn societies.

1. East Timor (1999-2012): Australia led the International Force East Timor (INTERFET) following the violent aftermath of East Timor’s referendum for independence from Indonesia. Australian leadership helped restore peace and aided in the country’s transition to independence, displaying Australia’s capability and willingness to lead complex peacekeeping missions.

2. Solomon Islands (2003-2017): The Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI), led by Australia, was a pivotal operation aimed at restoring law and order, following ethnic violence. The mission was highly successful in stabilizing the government and rebuilding the nation’s police force, illustrating the effectiveness of regional peacekeeping initiatives.

3. Cambodia (1992-1993): Australia played a significant role in the United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia (UNTAC), which helped restore peace and conduct free and fair elections after decades of conflict. Australian peacekeepers were instrumental in demining efforts, a critical step toward rebuilding the nation.

Public Opinion and Government Policy

The Australian public generally supports the nation’s peacekeeping roles, viewing them as a vital aspect of the country’s international responsibilities. This public sentiment is reflected in government policies that favour engagement in peacekeeping over direct military action. Successive Australian governments have recognized that contributing to global peacekeeping not only helps stabilize regions in conflict but also enhances Australia’s international reputation and influence.

Australia’s Role as a Peace Educator

Australia also contributes to global peace efforts through its training programs for international peacekeepers. The Australian Defence Force Peace Operations Training Centre is renowned for its comprehensive training programs that prepare both Australian and foreign military and police forces for peacekeeping missions. This commitment to training and capacity building emphasizes Australia’s holistic approach to promoting peace.

The Impact of Peacekeeping on Australia’s Diplomatic Relations

Australia’s active participation in peacekeeping has strengthened its diplomatic relationships, particularly with neighbouring countries in the Asia-Pacific region. These missions have allowed Australia to show its commitment to regional security and stability, fostering goodwill and cooperation that extend beyond the immediate objectives of the peacekeeping missions.

Australia’s ongoing commitment to international peacekeeping underscores its role as a stabilizing force in the region and an advocate for peaceful resolution of conflicts globally. This legacy not only highlights Australia’s dedication to global peace but also sets a precedent for other nations to follow, reinforcing the importance of collective international efforts in achieving lasting world peace.

Public Opinion and Government Policy

Public opinion in Australia has significantly influenced government policy, particularly in the realm of military engagements and peacekeeping. The Australian public tends to favour diplomatic and peaceful resolutions over military actions, and this sentiment is often reflected in the government’s approach to international conflicts.

Survey Insights on Military Engagement

Polls and surveys conducted over the years consistently show that a significant portion of the Australian population prefers peacekeeping roles to combat missions. For instance, the Lowy Institute’s 2022 annual polls often highlight a preference among Australians for the government to focus on peacekeeping rather than joining wars led by other nations. This public sentiment shapes policy, steering Australia towards roles that support peace and stability rather than contribute to military escalations.

Historical Context of Public Sentiment

Historically, Australian involvement in overseas conflicts, particularly those initiated by the United States, has not always been popular among the public. The Vietnam War, for example, sparked widespread protests across Australia in the late 1960s and early 1970s. These protests reflected growing public discontent with Australia’s participation in a conflict perceived as unnecessary and unjust.

Opposition to Following the US into War

In more recent times, the Australian public’s opposition to following the US into war was notably strong during the 2003 invasion of Iraq. Massive protests occurred in major cities across Australia, with many Australians questioning the legitimacy of the reasons provided for the invasion, such as the alleged presence of weapons of mass destruction. The lack of UN endorsement for the Iraq War further fuelled public scepticism and disapproval, influencing subsequent government decisions to be more cautious about entering foreign conflicts without robust international support or clear objectives.

Government Policy Alignment

In response to public opinion, Australian government policy has often leaned towards deploying military forces in peacekeeping missions under the UN banner, rather than unilaterally or as part of US-led coalitions. The government has also been keen to emphasize the role of the Australian Defence Force in humanitarian and disaster relief operations, aligning with the public’s preference for non-combative roles for the military.

Future Implications

The clear preference for peacekeeping and opposition to involvement in perceived unjust wars suggests that future Australian government policies will continue to be influenced by public opinion. This dynamic plays a crucial role in shaping Australia’s foreign policy and military engagements, ensuring that actions taken abroad align with the values and expectations of the Australian people.

This emphasis on aligning military engagements with the principles of justice, humanitarian aid, and peacekeeping not only reflects the will of the Australian people but also strengthens Australia’s position as a promoter of peace and stability in international affairs.

Demilitarization Worldwide: Lessons and Successes

Demilitarization efforts around the world have shown significant benefits, showcasing how reducing military expenditures can lead to more peaceful, stable, and prosperous societies. This section explores successful examples of demilitarization and the positive impacts that such policies have had on various nations and regions.

Case Studies of Successful Demilitarization

1. Costa Rica (1949-present):
– Background: Costa Rica famously abolished its military in 1949 following a brief civil war, reallocating its defence budget to education, healthcare, and environmental protection.
– Impact: As a result, Costa Rica has enjoyed decades of political stability and has one of the highest literacy rates and life expectancies in the region. This shift has also fostered a robust tourism industry cantered around its well-preserved natural landscapes.
– Global Influence: Costa Rica’s example has inspired discussions on demilitarization worldwide, highlighting how nations can thrive without a standing army.

The University for Peace (UPEACE) in Costa Rica is a unique educational institution dedicated to the study of peace. Established by the United Nations in 1980, UPEACE aims to promote peace through education, fostering a global understanding of conflict resolution and cooperation. The university offers a range of graduate programs focusing on peace and conflict studies, environmental development, and international law. Its commitment to sustainable development and interdisciplinary curriculum makes it a special place for learning and research in peace education.

Further enhancing its credibility, UPEACE was jointly awarded the UNESCO Chair on Education for Sustainable Development and the Earth Charter, emphasizing its role in promoting sustainable peace through education and sustainable development practices (University for Peace).

In addition to its academic pursuits, UPEACE also celebrates the legacy of former Costa Rican President Óscar Arias Sánchez, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1987 for his efforts to help resolve conflicts in Central America. His initiatives and the policies he supported have left a lasting impact on peace efforts in the region, making him a prominent figure in the context of peace and conflict resolution.

For more detailed information about UPEACE and its programs, you can visit their official site at (UPEACE). For those interested in the broader implications of Óscar Arias Sánchez’s work and his Nobel Peace Prize, more details can typically be found through historical archives and dedicated articles on peace studies.

2. Japan (1947-present):
– Background: Post-World War II, Japan adopted a pacifist constitution, which, under Article 9, renounces war as a sovereign right and limits the role of its military forces to self-defence.
– Impact: Despite constraints, Japan has become the third-largest economy in the world, focusing its resources on technology, manufacturing, and international diplomacy.
– Global Stance: Japan’s peaceful posture has enabled it to play a significant and respected role in international affairs, advocating for diplomatic and peaceful resolutions to conflicts.

Statistical Evidence Supporting Demilitarization

– Economic Growth and Social Development: Studies have shown a correlation between lower military spending and higher investments in sectors critical for human development such as education and healthcare. For instance, nations with lower military budgets as a percentage of GDP often report higher human development indices.

– Reduced Conflict Likelihood: Research indicates that countries with minimal military capabilities are less likely to be involved in international conflicts. This reduction in military posture decreases the odds of escalating disputes into full-blown wars.

How Demilitarization Enhances Security

– Internal Stability: By focusing on internal development and reducing the emphasis on military might, countries can foster greater social cohesion and internal stability. This shift can mitigate the factors that often lead to internal conflicts, such as inequality and political disenfranchisement.

– International Relations: Countries that emphasize demilitarization are often seen as less threatening by their neighbours, leading to improved international relations. This can open more avenues for trade, shared projects, and diplomatic exchanges that contribute to comprehensive security.

Lessons from Demilitarization

– Holistic Security Approach: The successes of demilitarized nations underscore the importance of adopting a comprehensive approach to national security that incorporates economic, social, and environmental factors, not just military capabilities.

– International Cooperation: These examples also highlight the role of international support and cooperation in ensuring the success of demilitarization efforts, as seen in the international community’s support for Japan’s post-war recovery and Costa Rica’s environmental initiatives.

Demilitarization, as shown by these examples, not only reduces the likelihood of war but also reallocates precious resources to constructive and sustainable uses. These lessons are critical as more countries consider how best to ensure their security while promoting global peace and stability.

Regional Peace Strategies in the Asia-Pacific

The Asia-Pacific region, with its dynamic geopolitical landscape and history of complex conflicts, requires nuanced and carefully crafted strategies for supporting peace. Australia, given its strategic position and diplomatic ties, plays a pivotal role in fostering regional stability. Here are some specific strategies that Australia and its regional partners can employ to promote peace in the Asia-Pacific.

Conflict Mediation and Peacebuilding Initiatives

1. Role in Mediating South China Sea Disputes:

– Background: The South China Sea is a hotspot for territorial disputes involving multiple countries, including China, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Malaysia.
– Strategy: Australia can act as a neutral mediator, helping dialogue and negotiation through ASEAN forums and bilateral discussions. Promoting adherence to international laws, such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), is crucial in these efforts.

2. Support for North Korean Denuclearization:

– Background: North Korea’s nuclear ambitions pose a significant threat to regional security.
– Strategy: Australia can support diplomatic efforts aimed at denuclearization, working with partners like South Korea, Japan, and the United States. This includes diplomatic backing for sanctions and incentives, and hosting or taking part in multi-party talks to address security concerns.

Strengthening Alliances and Partnerships

1. Enhancing ASEAN-Australia Cooperation:

– Approach: Strengthening the existing strategic partnership with ASEAN to enhance regional security architectures. This involves more active engagement in ASEAN-led initiatives, such as the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and the East Asia Summit (EAS).
– Benefits: By deepening ties with ASEAN, Australia reinforces regional mechanisms that promote transparency, trust, and cooperation, reducing the likelihood of conflicts.

2. Bilateral Peace Projects:

– Example: Collaborative projects with Indonesia and the Philippines that focus on counterterrorism, maritime security, and disaster preparedness. These projects not only address immediate security concerns but also build long-term trust and cooperation.
– Impact: Such collaborations can serve as models for other bilateral partnerships within the region, highlighting how joint efforts can effectively address shared challenges.

Role of Economic Integration in Promoting Peace

– Trade and Investment: Promoting increased trade and investment within the region helps bind countries together economically, making conflicts less likely. Australia can advocate for and take part in regional trade agreements that include strong conflict-resolution mechanisms.

– Development Aid: Directing foreign aid towards development projects in less stable regions of the Asia-Pacific can help alleviate the socio-economic conditions that often lead to conflicts. Australian aid can focus on enhancing governance, education, and healthcare, which are pillars of stable societies.

Educational and Cultural Exchanges

– Student and Cultural Exchange Programs: Such initiatives can foster a better understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures and perspectives within the region. Programs that bring together young leaders from across the Asia-Pacific to discuss and collaborate on regional issues can build a foundation for future peace.

– Professional Training Programs: Offering training programs in diplomacy, conflict resolution, and peace studies to mid-career professionals across the region. These programs, possibly run through Australian universities and think tanks, can equip a new generation of leaders with the skills needed to manage and resolve conflicts peacefully.

These strategies collectively show Australia’s potential to lead and innovate in promoting peace within the Asia-Pacific. By using diplomatic, economic, and cultural tools, Australia can help ensure a more stable and peaceful regional environment, benefiting not just its own national interests but also those of its neighbours and the broader international community.

Conflict Mediation

Australia’s potential role in mediating ongoing conflicts and promoting world peace in the Asia-Pacific region will be explored, with strategies for peaceful resolutions and regional stability discussed.

Strengthening Alliances

The importance of building and maintaining strong diplomatic relationships within the ASEAN and beyond will be examined as a crucial factor in regional peace efforts.

Global Movements for Disarmament

International Treaties and Australia’s Role

Australia has actively taken part in and often championed various international treaties aimed at promoting global disarmament and maintaining world peace. By upholding and advocating for these treaties, Australia contributes significantly to international norms and laws that govern state behaviour in relation to armament and conflict. Here are some key international treaties where Australia has played a critical role:

1. Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT):

– Background: The NPT aims to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and promote peaceful uses of nuclear energy.
– Australia’s Role: Australia is a strong proponent of the NPT and has actively taken part in Review Conferences, advocating for nuclear disarmament and stricter compliance with the treaty.

2. Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT):

– Background: This treaty bans all nuclear explosions in all environments, for military or civilian purposes.
– Australia’s Role: Australia was among the first to sign and ratify the CTBT and has been a leading advocate for its entry into force, hosting checking stations and providing technical expertise to the CTBT Organization.

3. Arms Trade Treaty (ATT):

– Background: The ATT regulates the international trade in conventional arms and aims to prevent and eradicate illicit trade and diversion of conventional arms.
– Australia’s Role: Australia played a significant role in the negotiation of the ATT and has been active in promoting its universalization and effective implementation.

4. Convention on Cluster Munitions:

– Background: This convention looks to eliminate cluster munitions that cause unacceptable harm to civilians.
– Australia’s Role: Australia is a state party to the convention and actively supports the humanitarian aims of the treaty, including assistance to victims and clearance of contaminated areas.

Grassroots Peace Initiatives

In addition to its role in international treaties, Australia has seen a vibrant growth of grassroots movements aimed at promoting peace and disarmament. These community-based initiatives play a crucial role in shaping public opinion and influencing policy at national and international levels:

1. Anti-Nuclear and Peace Movements:

– Examples: Groups like the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN), which won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2017, have their roots in Australia and have been influential in promoting nuclear disarmament globally.
– Impact: These movements mobilize public opinion and pressure governments to adopt more stringent disarmament policies.

2. Educational Programs and Awareness Campaigns:

– Activities: Numerous Australian NGOs conduct workshops, seminars, and conferences that educate the public about the dangers of armed conflict and the importance of peacebuilding.
– Outcome: These educational initiatives raise awareness and foster a culture of peace, especially among younger generations.

3. Community Engagement Projects:

– Examples: Local peace groups often engage in community service projects that not only help improve local conditions but also serve as practical demonstrations of non-violent problem-solving.
– Benefits: Such projects enhance community cohesion and demonstrate the practical applications of peace principles in everyday life.

4. Advocacy and Lobbying:

– Strategies: Peace organizations frequently engage in advocacy, lobbying politicians and community leaders to support peace-oriented policies and legislation.
– Results: This direct engagement has led to local and sometimes national policy changes that favour peace and disarmament initiatives. Examples are government support for and recognition of Nuclear Free Zones. Government policy not favouring nuclear energy with its historical connection with weapons grade nuclear material proliferation.

These grassroots movements complement Australia’s formal commitments under international treaties by nurturing a domestic environment supportive of peace and disarmament. Together, these efforts at the governmental and community levels highlight Australia’s comprehensive approach to promoting global peace and security.

Leading by Example: Policy Recommendations

As a nation committed to the ideals of peace and stability, Australia can lead by example on the global stage by implementing and advocating for policies that promote disarmament and foster a culture of peace. Here are several key policy recommendations that could enhance Australia’s role as a global leader in peace efforts:

1. Strengthening Diplomatic Capacities

– Enhanced Diplomatic Training: Invest in specialized training for diplomats in conflict resolution and peace negotiations. This preparation would equip Australian diplomats with the skills necessary to mediate and resolve disputes effectively in international forums.

– Increase Diplomatic Presence: Expand Australia’s diplomatic presence in conflict-prone regions to help quicker and more effective responses to emerging conflicts, enhancing Australia’s role as a mediator and peacebuilder.

2. Promoting Disarmament Initiatives

– Lead Disarmament Conferences: Host and lead international conferences focused on disarmament, particularly in the context of nuclear and conventional weapons. These conferences could serve as platforms for dialogue, negotiation, and the setting of international standards.

– Support Disarmament Treaties: Actively support and advocate for the ratification and enforcement of international disarmament treaties. This could include providing technical and financial help to countries struggling to meet treaty obligations.

3. Supporting Peace Education

– Implement Peace Education Programs: Integrate peace education into the national curriculum at all levels of schooling. These programs would focus on conflict resolution, the history and impact of war, and the importance of global citizenship.

– Set up Peace Research Institutes: Fund and support research institutes that focus on peace studies, conflict resolution, and disarmament. These institutes could collaborate with international networks to share knowledge and best practices.

4. Enhancing Economic Tools for Peace

– Economic Incentives for Peace: Develop economic policies that encourage countries to pursue peaceful development. This might include preferential trade agreements for countries engaged in significant peacebuilding activities or economic sanctions for those that violate international peace agreements.

– Invest in Development Aid: Allocate a greater part of foreign aid to development projects in regions recovering from conflict. Focus on building infrastructure, healthcare, and education, which are foundational for long-term peace and stability.

5. Fostering Cultural and Community Exchanges

– Expand Cultural Exchange Programs: Increase funding for programs that allow people from different countries, especially those from conflict zones, to experience Australian culture and vice versa. These exchanges build mutual understanding and respect, which are critical for international relations.

– Community-Based Peace Projects: Support local initiatives that aim to build peace from the ground up. This could involve funding community centres that promote intercultural dialogue and understanding within Australia’s diverse immigrant communities.

6. Utilizing Technology for Peacekeeping

– Innovate Peacekeeping Technologies: Invest in developing and deploying technology solutions that can aid peacekeeping forces, such as unmanned monitoring systems, which can reduce the need for large-scale military deployments.

– Cyber Peace Initiatives: Lead efforts to combat cyber warfare and online propaganda that can exacerbate international tensions. Promoting norms and agreements on cyber operations related to peace and security would be a pivotal area of leadership.

These policy recommendations aim to solidify Australia’s position as a leading advocate for world peace, demonstrating through actions that sustainable peace is achievable through concerted, genuine efforts at various levels – from local communities to global platforms.

Implementing Peace-Focused Policies

To effectively lead as a role model in global peace efforts, Australia can adopt and implement a series of peace-focused policies that not only promote international stability but also reflect its commitment to non-violent conflict resolution. Here’s how Australia can pioneer these initiatives:

1. National Action Plan for Peace

– Development of a Comprehensive Peace Plan: Set up a national action plan that outlines specific strategies and objectives for promoting peace both domestically and internationally. This plan would include measurable targets, timelines, and resources given to peace-building initiatives.

– Interdepartmental Collaboration: Ensure that the action plan involves collaboration across various government departments, including foreign affairs, defence, education, and trade, to create a cohesive and unified approach to peace.

2. Diplomatic Leadership in Peace Negotiations

– Mediator in Conflict Zones: Actively seek roles as a mediator in ongoing international conflicts, using Australia’s reputation as a fair and neutral party to facilitate dialogue between opposing sides.

– Training and Sending Peace Envoys: Train and deploy skilled peace envoys to regions experiencing conflict. These individuals would work on the ground to negotiate peace agreements and build trust among local parties.

3. Legislative Measures for Peace

– Disarmament Legislation: Pass national legislation that restricts the export of arms to countries where they could be used to fuel conflict. This policy would reinforce Australia’s commitment to reducing global arms proliferation.

– Support for International Law: Strengthen laws that support compliance with international humanitarian and peacekeeping laws, ensuring that Australia’s actions in conflict zones are held to the highest ethical and legal standards.

4. Public and Educational Initiatives

– Public Awareness Campaigns: Launch widespread campaigns to educate the public about the importance of peace, the costs of conflict, and how individuals can contribute to peace-building efforts.

– Peace Education in Schools: Implement educational programs in schools that focus on teaching students about peace, conflict resolution, and international relations, cultivating a culture of peace from a young age.

5. Economic Policies Supporting Peace

– Economic Incentives for Peaceful Development: Provide economic incentives for businesses and NGOs that engage in activities promoting peace, such as developing infrastructure in war-torn regions or supporting peace education.

– Funding for Peace Projects: Allocate government grants for research and projects that aim to develop innovative methods of peacebuilding and conflict resolution.

6. Cultural Diplomacy and Exchange Programs

– Expand Cultural Diplomacy: Use cultural diplomacy as a tool to build bridges between Australia and countries in conflict. This includes arts and cultural exchanges that promote mutual understanding and respect.

– International Exchange Programs: Fund and expand international exchange programs that allow Australians to learn about other cultures and vice versa, fostering a global community oriented towards peace.

7. Community Engagement and Empowerment

– Support for Local Peace Initiatives: Provide platforms and funding for community-based peace initiatives, encouraging local actions that contribute to broader peace efforts.

– Engagement in Multicultural Communities: Encourage dialogue and understanding within Australia’s multicultural communities to prevent domestic conflicts and promote social cohesion.

By implementing these peace-focused policies, Australia can not only enhance its international standing as a peace leader but also contribute substantively to global efforts aimed at achieving lasting world peace. This comprehensive approach ensures that peace promotion permeates all levels of policy and public action, making it a central pillar of national and international engagement.

The Role of Currency Sovereignty

Currency sovereignty – a nation’s power to issue and control its own currency – can play a pivotal role in enabling Australia to distribute resources effectively towards peace initiatives. This financial autonomy provides the flexibility needed to support both domestic and international peace efforts. Here’s how Australia can leverage its currency sovereignty to promote global peace:

1. Funding Peacekeeping and Humanitarian Missions

– Direct Financing of Missions: Australia can use its currency sovereignty to fund peacekeeping missions or support international organizations involved in peacekeeping without relying excessively on foreign aid or external funding. This ensures prompt and sufficient allocation of resources where they are most needed.

– Humanitarian Aid: Being able to create currency allows Australia to respond swiftly to humanitarian crises associated with conflicts. Australia can fund aid programs that provide relief in the form of food, medical aid, and shelter to war-torn regions, facilitating stabilization and peace-building efforts.

2. Investing in Long-Term Peace Projects

– Development Projects: With the ability to fund extensively, Australia can invest in long-term development projects in post-conflict areas, focusing on infrastructure, education, and healthcare. These projects not only aid in immediate recovery but also contribute to laying the foundations for sustainable peace.

– Support for Economic Development: By fostering economic development in unstable regions, Australia can help address the socio-economic disparities that often lead to conflict. Currency sovereignty allows for the creation of targeted economic programs that promote employment, stable incomes, and economic integration.

3. Supporting Global Disarmament Initiatives

– Financial Backing for Disarmament: Australia can give funds specifically for disarmament initiatives, such as programs to buy back weapons, destroy stockpiles of arms, and provide training for disarmament personnel. This financial support is crucial for the success of global disarmament efforts.

– Research and Development: Funding can also be directed towards research into effective disarmament techniques and technologies, contributing to broader international knowledge and capabilities in this area.

4. Educational and Advocacy Programs

– Peace Education: Currency sovereignty allows for the establishment of comprehensive peace education programs both domestically and internationally. Funding can be given to develop curriculum, train educators, and establish peace education centres.

– Public Awareness Campaigns: Resources can be directed towards campaigns that raise awareness about the importance of peace, the dangers of armed conflict, and the benefits of disarmament, helping to shape public opinion and policy.

5. Facilitating Economic Stability as a Basis for Peace

– Stabilization Mechanisms: Australia can use its fiscal and monetary policies to help stabilize economies of nations struggling post-conflict, preventing economic crises that could lead to renewed tensions and violence.

– Trade and Investment: Using currency sovereignty to promote favourable trade terms and investments in conflict-prone regions can help those areas integrate better into the global economy, promoting peace through economic interdependence.

6. Enhancing Multilateral Cooperation

– Funding Multilateral Efforts: Australia can contribute financially to international coalitions and efforts aimed at promoting peace, showing leadership and commitment on the global stage. This includes funding joint peace missions, multilateral peace talks, and international peacekeeping bodies.

By effectively leveraging its currency sovereignty, Australia not only strengthens its capacity to lead in global peace efforts but also sets a precedent for how nations can utilize their financial independence to foster a more peaceful world. This strategic use of financial resources underscores the significant role that economic policies play in supporting comprehensive peace initiatives.

Conclusion: A Peaceful Tomorrow

As we reflect on the extensive measures and strategies discussed throughout this article, Australia holds a unique and powerful position to influence global peace. The nation’s legacy of peacekeeping, combined with its commitment to disarmament and the strategic use of its currency sovereignty, presents a formidable force for fostering global stability and harmony.

Reaffirming Commitment to Peace

Australia’s dedication to leading by example in the realm of world peace is not just a policy stance but a reflection of its national identity and values. By continuing to invest in and promote peacekeeping, disarmament, and conflict resolution initiatives, Australia not only enhances its own security but also contributes significantly to building a safer world.

The Vision for Australia’s Role

Looking forward, Australia can envision a role where it not only responds to conflicts but actively prevents them. This involves a proactive approach in diplomatic engagements, innovative peace education programs, and a sustained commitment to economic policies that promote stability and prosperity both domestically and internationally.

Inspiring Global Action

Australia’s efforts can serve as a blueprint for other nations, inspiring them to reconsider their own roles in global peace efforts. The international community’s collective action is essential, and Australia’s leadership can galvanize a worldwide movement towards peace that transcends political and cultural boundaries.

The Call for Continuous Engagement

To achieve a peaceful tomorrow, continuous engagement and adaptation of strategies are necessary. As global dynamics evolve, so too must our approaches to supporting peace. This means that Australia, along with its global partners, must remain vigilant and innovative, always ready to address new challenges with the same spirit of collaboration and peace that guides its current efforts.

The Power of Collective Effort

Finally, the quest for world peace is a shared journey. It requires the commitment of not just governments and policymakers but also of individuals and communities worldwide. Each step taken towards disarmament, each investment in peace education, and each diplomatic effort made contributes to a tapestry of actions weaving a more peaceful future.

This vision for a peaceful tomorrow is not only achievable—it is necessary. As Australia continues to lead and collaborate on these efforts, it invites others to join in creating a legacy of peace that will help generations to come. The time to act is now, with each of us playing a role in crafting a world where peace is not just a dream but a reality.

Call to Action

Readers will be encouraged to support peace initiatives, take part in community discussions, and advocate for policies that lead to disarmament and sustainable peace.

References:

https://www.lowyinstitute.org/publications/australia-s-diplomatic-deficit-harms-our-global-presence

https://www.icanw.org/

This article was originally published on Denis’s blog, Politics for the People.

Denis Hay: At 82 years young, I stand as a testament to the enduring power of dedication and belief in social justice. My journey has been shaped by a deep conviction that every individual deserves to be treated with dignity and respect and that equal opportunities for thriving should be a universal right.

My beliefs are not just ideals; they are the driving force behind my active engagement in advocating for change. I am deeply concerned about the pressing issue of climate change, recognizing its urgency and the need for immediate, collective action. This is not just a matter of policy for me, but a moral imperative to safeguard our planet for the generations to come.

As an administrator of several Facebook pages, I use my platform to challenge the prevailing neoliberal ideology, which I see as a destructive force against our society and environment. My goal is to foster a political system that truly serves the people, ensuring access to essential needs like decent housing, secure and well-paid jobs, education, and healthcare for all.

In this chapter of my life, my mission is clear: to leave behind a world that is better and more just for my grandchildren and future generations. It is a commitment that guides my every action, a legacy of compassion and advocacy that I hope will inspire others to join the cause.

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Compost: a climate action solution

April 26, 2024
Written by: The AIM Network
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Composting’s role in the fight against climate change will be in focus during International Compost Awareness Week (ICAW), to be held from May 5-11 in Australia.

Amid the increasing frequency of extreme weather events such as flooding, droughts or bushfires, composting offers a practical, hands-on response to climate change mitigation where every household can join the global effort.

“As a community we can all contribute to a healthy planet by keeping food scraps away from landfill and one of the ways is through composting,” says Chris Rochfort, CEO of the Centre for Organic Research & Education (CORE).

“Composting can help reduce landfill methane emissions and restoring soil health, which will help build resilience to climate change, reduce reliance on synthetic fertilisers, and sequester carbon by removing it from the atmosphere.”

Composting can benefit the climate in many ways:

Reduces the amount of organic waste that goes to landfill, which when disposed to landfill breaks down anaerobically and releases methane. Methane is a greenhouse gas with a global warming potential around 28 times that of carbon dioxide over a 100-year period.
Improves drainage and aeration in the soil.
Produces a nutrient-rich soil amendment.
Retains soil moisture and reduces plant diseases/pests.
Reduces heat island effect in urban areas.
Increase resilience to the effects of climate change such as drought and extreme weather.

“By returning nutrients back to the soil through composting it improves plant health and promotes biodiversity. If we reduce and recycle waste, we can reduce greenhouse gas emissions at landfills, promote uptake of carbon dioxide by vegetation, and make our environment more resilient to the effects of a changing climate,” Mr Rochfort said.

He added: “Compost is one of nature’s essential building blocks that can solve so many of humanity’s current challenges from climate change, such as soil moisture loss and contaminated run-off and sediments entering our waterways.

“This is on top of compost being a fantastic amendment to add to soils to assist plant growth, nutrient retention and storing carbon. There’s no other product that can fulfill as many functions as compost can.

“Urban communities in particular generate massive amounts of food organics and garden organics (FOGO). As a community we need to participate in FOGO recovery systems where these wastes are processed into compost that adds valuable nutrients to the soil. This is good news for healthy food, future water supplies, environmental wellbeing, and human resilience.”

ICAW is a week during which Australians are encouraged to promote the importance and benefits of composting in their local communities. CORE, a public charity, has been championing this international awareness campaign exclusively in Australia for the past 19 years. ICAW has contributed to reducing organic waste going to landfill and at the same time improving biodiversity in soils and building up resilience to extreme weather events.

ICAW thanks sponsors of this year’s event, with Platinum sponsors comprising the Queensland Department of Environment, Science and Innovation, Penrith City Council and Northern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils; Gold sponsor is the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA); and Bronze sponsor is Ku-ring-gai Council in northern Sydney.

Highlights
• International Compost Awareness Week (ICAW) to be held from May 5-11, 2024
• Spotlight on composting’s role in household fight against climate change
• Nationwide event promotes benefits of composting in local communities

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The River Road

April 26, 2024
Written by: The AIM Network
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By James Moore

“Four wheels move the body, but two wheels move the soul.” – Unknown

There are roads that unspool in the memory as elegantly as they do under your wheels. Travel them once and vivid imagery remains available for recall. They need not wind through mountains or course along ocean shores, but sunlight, and horizons to pursue, distinguish certain journeys.

My experiences include riding up Glacier National Park’s “Going to the Sun” highway on a Honda 450 into a vista that grows more incomparable with each foot of elevation. That same little engine took me north on California’s legendary Pacific Coast Highway to sleep on the sand near Pismo Beach and trace the palisades along the oceanfront up to Big Sur. In Australia, I rented an adventure motorcycle to cross the continent and every mile felt epic but none more than the sweeping curves along the continental bight and the Great Ocean Road.

The Great Ocean Road, Australia

The longest stretch of straightaway in the world is said to be the 90-mile run of chip seal that crosses the Nullarbor Plain in the Outback and I figured motorcyclists had fallen asleep leaning over their handlebars while navigating the endless plain. In my memory, too, the Great Basin Highway’s run through Nevada seemed longer but maybe back then I had been in a hurry. The beauty of a roadway tends to reflect grand engineering, also, like the roll and climb of Ross Maxwell Drive that leads visitors to Big Bend National Park down to the mouth of Santa Elena Canyon’s 1500 foot walls, rising up from the banks of the Rio Grande. Trail Ridge Road, a 48-mile wonder that climbs from Colorado’s Estes Park to Grand Lake, reaches 11,500 feet above sea level where the air is too thin to support the existence of trees.

The Great Basin Highway, Nevada, Photo by Donald Giannatti on Unsplash

There are far too many to list but one that calls me constantly is the River Road, Texas Ranch to Market 170, from Presidio to Study Butte. I think I have worn out a few sets of motorcycle tires riding that pavement through its mesas and volcanic rock formations of pre-history, stealing glimpses of the Rio Grande between the canebrakes and blind rises. It is one of the great motorcycle roads in North America and belongs on every top ten list. My friend Wade Goodwyn and I had been planning his first motorcycle ride on the River Road for when he recovered from cancer. He had purchased his first big touring bike and was hoping for increased confidence and a bit of fun but each time we set a date, his health denied him that particular dream. Wade was an accomplished reporter for NPR, ready for retirement, and wandering without deadlines.

Wade and I never got to take our rides or have the adventures we had begun scheming because he was taken by cancer. When his wife, Dr. Sharon Sandell, told me he had insisted she get his new motorcycle to me, I was stunned, and I still am. My promise was to ride the highways and backroads Wade and I had discussed and give some life to his dream, and maybe, help to sustain the memory of a good man. Consequently, this past week, I took off for the River Road with some old friends, and a few new ones, to ride it once for Wade. The bike, bearing his initials, “WG,” was out front, leading pals Gary, Torsten, Uli, Sean, and Chase as we passed Fort Ben Leaton, east of Presidio.

The “rio” is not very “grande” these days, however. There seems to be almost no continuous flow and the snow melt from its source in the Southern Rockies appears to be giving little water to the river course. West of where we were riding, Mexico’s vast Rio Conchos valley meets the Rio Grande at “La Junta de los Rios,” the junction of the two rivers. The location is one of the longest inhabited in North America with ancient life and crops made possible by an abundance of water. In the contemporary era of debilitating drought, however, the U.S. is accusing Mexico of violating a water treaty by delivering only 30 percent of its contractual obligations of supplies. Only rain will help, and spring looks to finish dry. More crops will fail.

A Waterless Watershed – Photo by Chase Rivers

I am certain this ride would have been delayed by Wade, who would have been compelled to start conducting interviews and tell the story of the deepening international water crisis and dispute, and the people being harmed. I thought of him also as we shifted to lower gears to climb the big hill before descending toward Terlingua. We were stopping at the “Dom Rock,” the spot where characters in the movie Fandango had buried a bottle of Dom Perignon champagne to be dug up and opened after graduating from the University of Texas. Wade had asked me about the difficulty of hiking to the rock and standing on the Rio Grande overlook where Kevin Costner made his famous toast.

In Wade’s stead, Sean and Chase walked the dirt and stone track around to where the sun hit their faces and the Dom Rock’s. Maybe it is an imperfect way to remember the trip Wade and I had envisioned, and to honor him, but it’s a moment that mattered and it’s easy to see him standing there with his Goodwyn grin. Costner’s early film was a paean to the glories of youth and friendship and adventure with the inescapable cinematic theme that everything ends; we all leave each other, sometimes for different places and other people, but, eventually, each one of us is gone, by choice or chance.

We hung around in the sun, temperatures nearing 90, and not wanting to leave. After walking back down toward the overlook, we saw the remainders of the river reaching back toward Presidio. A few cottonwoods lined the north bank and ribbons of green ran where once there was water. We were thinking of a cold, cleansing ale on the front porch of the Terlingua General Store.

The greatest ambition of motorcycling is enjoyment, to feel and smell and see the landscape and know the pull of a horizon. You are lucky to have friends who share the love of the road on two wheels. You know a few things together that others do not, and not just how to plug flats in 100 degree heat or clean gunked-up fuel injectors at a rest stop.

Motorcycles are more than conveyances, though, and make possible emotions not as readily accessible as sitting behind a steering wheel. The road viewed through a windshield is just part of a movie; on the bike, you play a part in whatever adventure you devise or that is delivered to you by weather and circumstance. A sense of presence can become almost overwhelming.

A long motorcycle ride, it has been said countless times, offers the answer to a question you will soon forget. Life is reduced to basics by a motor that applies power to two wheels. Philosophy and anxiety do not run engines. Robert M. Pirsig, author of Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, said, “Other people can talk about how to expand the destiny of mankind. I just want to talk about how to fix a motorcycle. I think that what I have to say has more lasting value.”

I am, increasingly, inclined to agree.

Like every time I’ve traveled the River Road, there was nothing I did not enjoy. I did sense the one rider missing, though, and wished that he had been along for the trip.

But, hell, maybe he was.

This article was originally published on Texas to the world.

James Moore is the New York Times bestselling author of “Bush’s Brain: How Karl Rove Made George W. Bush Presidential,” three other books on Bush and former Texas Governor Rick Perry, as well as two novels, and a biography entitled, “Give Back the Light,” on a famed eye surgeon and inventor. His newest book will be released mid- 2023. Mr. Moore has been honored with an Emmy from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences for his documentary work and is a former TV news correspondent who has traveled extensively on every presidential campaign since 1976.

He has been a retained on-air political analyst for MSNBC and has appeared on Morning Edition on National Public Radio, NBC Nightly News, Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell, CBS Evening News, CNN, Real Time with Bill Maher, and Hardball with Chris Matthews, among numerous other programs. Mr. Moore’s written political and media analyses have been published at CNN, Boston Globe, L.A. Times, Guardian of London, Sunday Independent of London, Salon, Financial Times of London, Huffington Post, and numerous other outlets. He also appeared as an expert on presidential politics in the highest-grossing documentary film of all time, Fahrenheit 911, (not related to the film’s producer Michael Moore).

His other honors include the Dartmouth College National Media Award for Economic Understanding, the Edward R. Murrow Award from the Radio Television News Directors’ Association, the Individual Broadcast Achievement Award from the Texas Headliners Foundation, and a Gold Medal for Script Writing from the Houston International Film Festival. He was frequently named best reporter in Texas by the AP, UPI, and the Houston Press Club. The film produced from his book “Bush’s Brain” premiered at The Cannes Film Festival prior to a successful 30-city theater run in the U.S.

Mr. Moore has reported on the major stories and historical events of our time, which have ranged from Iran-Contra to the Waco standoff, the Oklahoma City bombing, the border immigration crisis, and other headlining events. His journalism has put him in Cuba, Central America, Mexico, Australia, Canada, the UK, and most of Europe, interviewing figures as diverse as Fidel Castro and Willie Nelson. He has been writing about Texas politics, culture, and history since 1975, and continues with political opinion pieces for CNN and regularly at his Substack newsletter: “Texas to the World.”

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Balancing eSafety and Online Censorship, 2024

April 26, 2024
Written by: The AIM Network
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By Denis Hay

Description:

Explore how Australia’s eSafety laws impact free speech and how currency sovereignty can help balance regulation and rights.

Introduction to eSafety in Australia

In Australia, the enhancement of eSafety laws aims to protect citizens from various online harms, such as cyberbullying and digital abuse. While these laws are pivotal for ensuring a safer online environment, they also prompt critical discussions about their potential impact on free speech and the democratic use of social media for political expression and change.

This article explores the complex interplay between ensuring online safety and protecting individual freedoms. It examines how these laws could potentially be misused, scrutinizes the mechanisms that can safeguard against such misuse, and discusses the crucial role of public and judicial oversight in keeping the balance between security and free speech.

By delving into these aspects, the article sheds light on the broader implications of Australia’s eSafety regulations and how they intersect with the country’s unique stance on currency sovereignty to shape public policy and personal freedoms.

The Importance of Free Speech in Australia

Free speech is a foundational element of democratic societies, enabling the free exchange of ideas and helping informed public debate. In Australia, this right is underpinned by various statutes and common law, though it isn’t explicitly protected by the Australian Constitution. However, the digital age presents new challenges to free speech, especially as governments enact laws aiming to secure other societal needs, such as safety and security.

Historical Overreach through Legislation

Australia’s legislative landscape includes several examples where laws, particularly those related to anti-terrorism, have been criticized for potentially overreaching and infringing on free speech. These instances highlight the delicate balance between ensuring national security and preserving individual freedoms.

1. Anti-Terror Laws and Free Speech:

In the early 2000s, Australia introduced a series of stringent anti-terrorism laws in response to global terror threats. These laws included provisions that made it a criminal offense to support or promote terrorism. Critics argued that the broad and vague definitions within these laws could potentially stifle legitimate political discussion or academic analysis of terrorism-related topics.

For example, in 2014, the government proposed a law that would make it an offense to advocate for terrorism, even if there was no direct incitement to violence. This raised concerns among civil liberties groups and legal experts about the potential suppression of free speech, particularly in academic, journalistic, and public discourse settings.

2. Sedition Laws:

Another contentious part of Australia’s anti-terror laws are the sedition provisions, which have been critiqued for their potential misuse against political dissent. These laws make it illegal to urge violence against groups or the government, which is to protect national security. However, there have been concerns that such provisions could be used to criminalize protest and dissent. While there have been no high-profile cases of sedition charges in recent years, the existence of these laws poses a latent threat to free speech.

3. ASIO Questioning and Detention Regime:

The Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) has powers under national security legislation to detain and question individuals without charge. Critics, including legal practitioners and human rights organizations, have pointed out that these powers could be used to intimidate or silence political activists or those critical of government policies, even though the direct misuse in such contexts has been less documented.

These examples underscore the importance of vigilance and advocacy in protecting free speech in Australia.

Key Innovations Driving eSafety Legislation

Australia’s approach to eSafety has evolved significantly over the years, adapting to modern technologies and the increasing prevalence of online interaction. Recent legislation has focused on enhancing the powers of the eSafety Commissioner and imposing stricter regulations on digital platforms to swiftly remove harmful content. While these steps are designed to protect users, especially children and vulnerable groups, they also spark concerns about overreach.

How Readers Can Support Genuine Free Speech

Supporting genuine free speech while advocating for effective eSafety measures requires public involvement and vigilance:
– Stay Informed: Understand the specifics of eSafety legislation and its implications for free speech.
– Participate in Public Consultations: Engage in discussions and provide feedback on proposed regulations.
– Advocate for Clear Laws: Support efforts to define harmful content more explicitly to prevent over-censorship.

The Role of Technology in Online Free Speech

Technology companies play a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of online free speech. Their platforms are the arenas in which much of today’s discourse occurs, and their policies can significantly influence what is considered acceptable speech. Balancing user safety with freedom of expression requires transparent content moderation practices and a commitment to protecting users’ rights.

The potential for misuse of Australia’s new eSafety laws by the government is a concern that resonates with critics and civil liberties groups. These laws, intended to improve online safety and combat cyberbullying and other forms of online harassment, do come with broad powers that, if not carefully watched and transparently applied, could be used in ways that may inadvertently or deliberately restrict free speech. Here’s how misuse might manifest:

1. Vague Definitions of Harmful Content

The eSafety laws often include vague and broad definitions of what constitutes harmful or inappropriate content. This can lead to subjective interpretations and inconsistent enforcement, potentially allowing government agencies or officials to suppress content that is critical of government policies or actions under the guise of supporting online safety.

2. Overreach in Content Removal

The laws grant the eSafety Commissioner the authority to order the removal of content considered harmful. While this is primarily intended to protect individuals from online abuse, it could also be used to remove content that is politically sensitive or embarrassing to the government but not genuinely harmful. This overreach could stifle political debate and limit the public’s ability to hold the government accountable.

3. Impact on Whistleblowers and Journalists

Journalists and whistleblowers rely on the freedom of the internet to give information about government wrongdoing and societal issues. Overzealous application of eSafety laws could lead to the removal of such content, or even discourage the sharing of it altogether, out of fear of reprisal or legal consequences. This would have a chilling effect on investigative journalism and freedom of the press.

4. Surveillance and Privacy Concerns

The enforcement mechanisms within the eSafety laws might require increased surveillance and monitoring of online activities. This could lead to invasions of privacy and unwarranted governmental intrusion into individuals’ digital lives, under the guise of monitoring for compliance with safety standards.

5. Disproportionate Impact on Minorities and Dissenters

Historically, laws with broad enforcement powers have had a disproportionate impact on minority groups and political dissenters. There is a risk that such groups could be targeted more often under the new regulations, either directly through biased application of the laws or indirectly by creating an environment of self-censorship where individuals are hesitant to express dissenting views.

Mitigating Potential Misuse

To prevent the misuse of eSafety laws, several measures can be implemented:

– Clear, Narrow Definitions: Laws should precisely define what constitutes harmful content to avoid broad interpretations that can lead to censorship.
– Transparent Processes: Enforcement actions taken under these laws should be transparent, with clear avenues for appeal and review.
– Regular Oversight: Independent oversight bodies should regularly review the application of these laws to ensure they are used appropriately and not for political purposes.
– Public Engagement: Continuous dialogue between the government, digital platforms, and the public is essential to balance online safety with free speech rights.

By considering these factors, Australia can strive to ensure that its eSafety laws fulfill their intended purpose without compromising the fundamental rights and freedoms that form the bedrock of democratic society.

The role of social media as a crucial platform for individuals to express political views and advocate for change cannot be understated. It serves as a global stage where voices, often marginalized in traditional media, can share their stories, mobilize support, and start movements. However, the new eSafety laws in Australia raise concerns about the potential negative impact on this vital function of social media.

Impact of eSafety Laws on Social Media Expression

1. Restriction on Content: The broad powers given to authorities under eSafety laws to remove what they determine as harmful content could lead to a significant reduction in the diversity of viewpoints expressed online. This might include political dissent or criticism of the government, which, although potentially contentious, are essential components of a healthy democracy.

2. Chilling Effect: Knowing that content might be surveilled and potentially removed can lead to a chilling effect, where individuals self-censor to avoid repercussions. This self-censorship is particularly detrimental to political discourse, as it stifles the free exchange of ideas that could lead to societal change.

3. Barriers to Mobilization: social media is a key tool for organizing protests and rallies. Overly strict eSafety regulations could hinder the ability of activists to use these platforms for mobilization by restricting the dissemination of calls to action, organizing coordination, and sharing of protest-related content under the broad guise of keeping public order or safety.

Proposed Expanded Section: The Role of Technology in Online Free Speech

Technology companies and social media platforms are at the forefront of shaping the digital discourse. Their content policies and moderation practices significantly influence what is seen as acceptable speech online. Balancing user safety with freedom of expression requires transparent moderation practices and a commitment to protecting users’ rights to free speech.

With the new eSafety laws, there is a tangible risk that these platforms may become overly cautious, potentially removing content that is merely controversial rather than harmful. This over-caution is particularly problematic for social media, which has become a primary avenue for political expression and advocacy.

The potential for these platforms to inadvertently stifle important societal discussions under the pressure of compliance with eSafety laws is a critical area of concern. Enhanced dialogue between policymakers, tech companies, and the public is essential to ensure that efforts to secure online environments do not undermine the dynamic, open nature of social media as a space for political engagement and social activism.

Spotlight on eSafety

As Australia strengthens its eSafety laws, scrutiny of these regulations is essential to ensure they are applied fairly and do not unduly restrict free speech. This section explores how these laws can be watched and scrutinized effectively to prevent potential abuses and ensure they serve the public interest without compromising fundamental freedoms.

1. Independent Oversight

To prevent misuse of eSafety laws, an independent oversight body should be set up or strengthened if it already exists. This body would handle reviewing actions taken under these laws, ensuring that decisions to remove content or penalize individuals or platforms are justified and proportionate. Regular audits and public reporting by this body can enhance transparency and accountability.

2. Judicial Review

Offering robust mechanisms for judicial review allows affected parties to challenge decisions they believe infringe on their rights. Courts can examine whether the actions taken under the eSafety laws are consistent with legal standards and principles, including proportionality and necessity in a democratic society.

3. Public Consultation and Involvement

Engaging the public through consultations and feedback mechanisms ensures that a diverse range of perspectives is considered in the administration and evolution of eSafety laws. This process can help policymakers understand the societal impact of these laws and adjust them based on public input to better balance safety and free speech.

4. Transparency in Decision-Making

Transparency is critical in keeping public trust in the enforcement of eSafety laws. Authorities should clearly outline the criteria used for deciding what constitutes harmful content and show statistics on the frequency and context of interventions. This transparency helps ensure that the enforcement actions are understood and accepted as necessary and fair by the public.

5. Legal Safeguards and Rights to Appeal

Implementing legal safeguards that protect against overreach is crucial. Individuals and entities should have the right to appeal against content takedown decisions or penalties imposed under eSafety laws. An effective appeal process should be accessible and expedient, offering a fair chance to contest decisions that participants consider unjust.

6. Collaboration with Digital Platforms

Regulators should work closely with social media platforms and other digital service providers to develop clear guidelines for content moderation that respect free speech while protecting users from harm. This collaboration can help ensure that platform policies are aligned with legal standards and are consistently applied.

7. Regular Policy Reviews

Regularly reviewing the eSafety laws themselves to assess their impact on free speech and online safety is necessary. These reviews can be conducted by parliamentary committees or independent commissions and should include evidence-based assessments to inform any needed amendments or updates to the legislation.

By incorporating these methods of scrutiny, Australia can foster a regulatory environment where eSafety laws effectively protect individuals from online harms without eroding the essential democratic value of free speech. This balanced approach is crucial for keeping a free and open internet while safeguarding the well-being of its users.

How Currency Sovereignty Can Support Genuine Free Speech

Australia’s control over its currency provides a unique tool in supporting initiatives like eSafety without compromising free speech. Through targeted funding:
– Subsidize Education: Invest in digital literacy programs that educate the public on both safe internet practices and the importance of free speech.
– Support Research: Allocate resources to study the impacts of eSafety laws and explore innovative solutions that protect individuals without limiting free expression.

Conclusion

The quest to harmonize eSafety with free speech in Australia presents a complex challenge, one that grows increasingly intricate as our digital world evolves. This article has highlighted not only the necessity of eSafety laws in protecting citizens from online harm but also the significant risks these laws pose to free speech, particularly in their potential misuse and the impact on social media as a platform for political dialogue and change.

To navigate these challenges effectively, a robust framework for scrutiny is essential. This includes independent oversight, transparent decision-making, and active public participation to ensure that these laws do not overreach, suppressing valid expressions under the guise of safety.

Moreover, embracing regular reviews and adjustments of these laws can help align them more closely with evolving societal values and technological advancements. By fostering an informed and vigilant community, Australia can aspire to an online environment that is both safe and free, ensuring that digital advancements enhance democratic participation rather than hinder it.

Call to Action:

Engage with policymakers, support transparent laws, and take part in discussions that shape the future of online safety and free speech in Australia.

Engage with Us

What are your thoughts on the balance between eSafety and free speech? Have you experienced or saw any impacts of these laws in your online interactions? Share your experiences and join the conversation below.

This comprehensive guide aims to equip readers with the knowledge to understand and influence the ongoing discussions about eSafety and free speech in Australia, helping ensure that the digital world still is as free as it is safe. freedoms.

References:

Anti-terror Laws: https://lawcouncil.au/policy-agenda/criminal-law-and-national-security/anti-terror-laws
A Decade of Australian Anti-Terror Laws: https://classic.austlii.edu.au/au/journals/MelbULawRw/2011/38.html
New bill would make Australia worst in the free world for criminalising journalism: https://theconversation.com/new-bill-would-make-australia-worst-in-the-free-world-for-criminalising-journalism-90840
Opportunism in the Face of Tragedy Repression in the name of anti-terrorism: https://www.hrw.org/legacy/campaigns/september11/opportunismwatch.htm

This article was originally published on Denis’s blog, Politics for the People.

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Ignorant. Woke.

April 25, 2024
Written by: The AIM Network
14 Replies

By Bert Hetebry

Yesterday I was ignorant.

I had received, unsolicited, a YouTube video about the dangers of GMO which is in the Covid vaccinations most of us have had. My ignorance stemmed from not understanding that GMO is different that vaccination. So I spent about three minutes Googling GMO and vaccinations, and Google came up with an incredibly long list of scientific articles, peer reviewed, from respected scientific and medical journals which seemed to link the two terms together, and more than that show research which confirmed the lifesaving results of GMO vaccinations.

I had seriously dismissed all the hoo-haa conspiracy stuff that flooded the internet during the Covid days, but gee whizz, I am ignorant it seems, or could it be just not all that thrilled about living my life under the clouds of conspiracy theories that seem to occupy too many minds.

Today I am WOKE.

But from the same person, this morning I was ‘woke’, sorry, it was capitalised ‘WOKE’, and in case I didn’t understand what was meant it was ‘Willfully Overlooking Knowable Evidence’. So I could interpret that as not only being ignorant, but also dumb.

I thought perhaps I should check with Google to determine what WOKE really means, and it turns out to something quite positive.

WOKE it turns out, according to the Cambridge Dictionary means ‘aware, especially of social problems such as racism and inequality.’ Mmmm, that does not sound like willfully overlooking knowable evidence, but rather engaging with the knowable evidence to recognise disadvantage or discrimination when it is evident, so that attitudes can change.

I thanked the person for the complimentary label applied to me, and thanked him for giving me the motivation to write.

When I look at the world we live in and the changes which I have witnessed in my lifetime, recognising Aboriginal people as being people and including them in the population of human habitants of Australia, and giving them the right to vote, the wave of feminism which saw women achieve a degree of equality…. yes, a DEGREE of equality, to see homosexuality decriminalised, abortion rights, voluntary assisted dying for terminally ill patients, freedom to worship or not worship the god(s) of choice, the privilege of living in a wealthy country in fact, per person, one of the wealthiest countries in the world, and so many more positive changes we have seen, most of which remain under the threat of being reversed.

In economic terms we have seen the assets of the family home reach such heady heights that most homeowners will die millionaires just because the home they bought when it was affordable is now out of reach for the average worker. I recall the price of the first humble home I purchased in 1970, $12,380.00. My wages were about $100 per week or $5,200 per year. I don’t know how much that house would fetch on today’s market, but at least $600,000 does not sound unrealistic. IN 1970 the house was around 2.5 times my annual income. Today it is valued at around 9 times average annual income. So it has become almost impossible to enter the market without some serious help.

The cost of buying a house has become so expensive that people are forced to rent as they try to save for the deposit of their first home, but rental costs have ballooned. Where four years ago rent on a two bedroomed home where I live was around $240 per week, now almost $500 per week. The minimum take home wage, after tax is around $600 per week.

Poverty is rife. And nothing seems to be being done about it. Being WOKE means I recognise the problem and can maybe pressure governments to do something about it… maybe. I am led to believe this is a wealthy country, but what I see is that those who have the wealth are very much committed to keeping it, even make the pot a bit larger by reducing their taxes and pressuring governments for more of their special interests to be funded, like the government contributions to private schools or any other worthy cause that would benefit those who already have the most.

Being WOKE, I refuse to live in fear.

Fear of the unknown is a great political tool, and the unknown is the danger posed by those who would board an unseaworthy vessel in Indonesia to get across to Australia, the land of milk and honey. It takes a lot to leave a homeland which has become unsafe, where persecution is rife, where difference is scorned. And so, since the pathway to Australia House or the nearest Australian Embassy is not all that accessible, other means are sought to find the desired freedom, only to find that on arrival they are immediately sent off to an offshore detention centre, never to land back in Australia.

The model of sending the unwanted off to remote places has become an example for others to follow, those despairing refugees seeking solace in Great Britain are now boarded a plane to Rwanda. We cannot allow criminals to just come whenever they feel like it. Yet when we look at the desperate people who have arrived here in the past, refugees from WW!!, boat people escaping post war Vietnam and so many others who have arrived here from war torn or intolerant places, escaping religious persecution or ethnic power struggles which have resulted in bloody civil wars or the effects of climate change which has made their homeland uninhabitable, they have made valuable contributions, socially, economically, culturally. Australia is a far better country for the diversity which such immigrants have brought. But please don’t tell anyone that, especially those who are afraid of people who look different, speak different languages, dress differently, worship differently.

And of course, those ethnically diverse migrants bring their self-righteous religious hatreds with them. Much has been made of the knife attacks in NSW in recent days, video footage of the young man attacking the preacher and the quest to find those who rioted as a result of that attack, not to mention the search for other radicalised youths who may pick up a knife and find someone else who has insulted their belief making them worthy of death.

A bit of perspective here. This year, and the year is about 20 weeks old, and 30 women have been killed by men, partners, former partners, men not known to them. Two preachers survived a knife attack, and the attacker is under arrest. The attack in the church was motivated by the firebrand preacher presenting sermons which were broadcast on the internet, available for anyone who wanted to access them, and the sermons were critical of Islam, gay rights and a number of other issues. In earlier times the only people who heard the sermons were those who were in the congregation, in the church as the sermon was delivered. The preacher wants the attack and no doubt his existing and still to come sermons to be available online so he can use his position to not only preach to his congregation but also have those vitriolic words available to anyone who happens to trip over them as they check their social media accounts.

I find that a bit problematic. The inciting of religious difference has consequences. Earlier this week Salman Rushdie was interviewed on 7:30. He has released a new book ‘Knife’, about an attack on him where he was stabbed multiple time including in his right eye. Yes, I am speculating, but about 36 years ago his book ‘Satanic Verses’ was published and since there is in it a dream sequence where one of the protagonists’ dreams of some contact with an angel, it was deemed blasphemous, and a fatwa was issued to kill Salman Rushdie. Memories are long and religious dogma includes the repeating of stories from generation to generation. So an attempt was made on Rushdie’s life in front of an audience he was scheduled to address. (I once asked a local Imam whether he had read Satanic Verses as he was telling me how evil the book was. He hadn’t read it and assured me that he definitely would not read it. What a shame. If he had read the book, he may have enjoyed a really good belly laugh as the absurdities of the plot evolved, and the insult to Islam was not found because there is no insult to Islam.)

So a young radicalised person attacks a preacher, who was possibly instrumental in his radicalisation, just as the Ayatollah Khomeini in issuing the fatwa was instrumental, 35 years later inciting the attack which almost cost Rushdie his life.

So the WOKE me looks at the issues that are around me, that in one way or another touch my life and try to do something to let humanity shine, the anti-WOKE people of the world stoke fear of difference, strive to develop an orthodoxy which marginalises difference.

I wear the WOKE label with pride.

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Treasuring the moment: a military tattoo

April 25, 2024
Written by: The AIM Network
4 Replies

By Frances Goold

He asked if we had anything planned for Anzac Day.

“A big rest” was all I could come up with. “What about you?”

“We’ll go to the Dawn Service.”

“Kids too?”

“The kids have been coming with us to the Dawn Service since they were babies. Later there’s a few of us will head off to the two-up game. The ring’s sandbagged, there’s refreshments, it’s a big tradition here.”

We’d been hanging pictures when I noticed the tat on his arm. It didn’t seem like the usual macho array so I asked if he would show it to me.

He nodded, “Sure”, raised his sleeve, and turned his arm over.

I was so moved that for a second or so I couldn’t speak. Suddenly the only picture in the room was his.

“It’s for my Pop”, he said, “he was a Rat of Tobruk. He’s passed now.”

“How was he when he came home?”

“He was fine… but he’d been wounded, hit by shrapnel, so he had that.”

“Did he talk about his experiences?”

“No, he never spoke of it, and he lived till he was 98.”

The Rats of Tobruk were soldiers of the Australian-led Allied garrison that held the Libyan port of Tobruk against the Afrika Corps during the Siege of Tobruk, which began on April 11, 1941 and ended on December 10. The port continued to be held by the Allies until its surrender on June 21, 1942.

Between April and August 1941, some 35,000 allies, including around 14,000 Australian soldiers, were besieged in Tobruk by a German–Italian army commanded by General Erwin Rommel. The garrison, commanded by Lieutenant General Leslie Morshead, included the 9th Australian Division (20th, 24th, and 26th Brigades), the 18th Brigade of the 7th Australian Division, four regiments of British artillery, and the 3rd Indian Motor Brigade.

According to the Australian War Memorial online archive, the Australian casualties from the 9th Division from 8th April to 25th October numbered 749 killed, 1,996 wounded, and 604 prisoners. The total losses in the 9th Division and attached troops from 1st March to 15th December amounted to 832 killed, 2,177 wounded and 941 prisoners.

The Australians held out for almost eight months against the German siege, which was abandoned by the Germans after 242 days when, on December 7, 1941, Rommel made the decision to fall back to Gazala. However, on June 21, 1942, Rommel began a second offensive that finally captured the fortress.

According to Colonel Ward A. Miller, “the Australians’ epic stand at Tobruk had a major impact on the war because the Germans suffered a serious and unexpected reversal. The Tobruk garrison demonstrated that the hitherto successful German blitzkrieg tactics could be defeated by resolute men who displayed courage and had the tactical and technical ability to coordinate and maximize the capabilities of their weapons and equipment in the defence.”

My proud assistant’s grandfather served in the 9th Division.

Although it’s that time of year when profound and raw emotions are held and privileged by collective remembrances across the nation, I wasn’t anticipating such a whack of it whilst hanging pictures at home.

“Every picture here tells a story”, I had said to him while we measured, drilled, and hung the first few, then suddenly here was his.

Later, while he was packing up, I asked on impulse if I might take a photograph of the tattoo, maybe write something respectful.

It wasn’t simply that I wished to capture the moment when a young married man and father of two small children paused in his work to share with me something of immense pride for him and his family, but I felt compelled to record a small, perfect work of remembrance inscribed into his flesh that both embodied and symbolised the spirit of his soldier-grandfather – as if it were a talisman I needed to hold unto myself for a little while. Revealed by his outstretched arm was a loving pride and authenticity of feeling with which I had somehow lost connection and was determined not to have disappear as soon as it had arrived.

There are memories that are suppressed, and remembrances that go on, and there are reminders of the things we are losing or have lost.

That tattoo was a reveille of sorts and a little tap toe for which I am grateful. And it’ll be that much harder to ignore the day.

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Top water experts urge renewed action to secure future of Murray-Darling Basin

April 24, 2024
Written by: The AIM Network
2 Replies

The Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) has today urged a suite of actions and investments to protect the future of the Murray-Darling Basin in the face of climate change, which is threatening the river’s health and sustainability.

In a new essay series A thriving Murray-Darling Basin in 50 years: Actions in the face of climate change, ATSE urges more investment in technologies to monitor the river for climate impacts and in sustained governance with regional and rural communities at the centre, coupled with evolving our agriculture industry in the face of decreased water availability and accepted water sharing policies.

The essay series highlights the vibrant, thriving potential of the Basin if sustainably managed for the benefit of communities and the environment. To achieve this, it recommends the reinstatement of a body to provide independent objective policy advice on national water management, including for the Murray-Darling Basin, to help guide consistent national data-driven decision-making.

ATSE President Katherine Woodthorpe AO FTSE said the future of the Murray-Darling Basin is recognised to be at severe risk and that comprehensive action across Federal, State and Territory Governments will be decisive to safeguard its biodiversity, social and economic importance to Australia.

“The Murray-Darling Basin covers one-seventh of Australia’s landscape and is responsible for delivering a significant share of Australia’s Gross Domestic Product. But more importantly, to safeguard and protect this resource for the future, Australia must take urgent action in the face of increasing climate change.

“To inform evidence-based decision making, we need a central data custodian for all water quantity and water quality monitoring data, which is transparently shared with all stakeholders.

“Managing the Basin effectively will also require a review of institutional arrangements that govern property rights at a Territory, State and Commonwealth level for consistency as well as climate-proofing.

“At the heart of this plan, we need to ensure institutional governance benefits rural and regional communities including addressing the cultural water rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

“It is time for a long-term approach to managing our most important water resource,” said Dr Woodthorpe.

The Academy looks forward to advising the Federal, State and Territory Governments on shaping a comprehensive plan for the Basin that is resilient to our changing climate and charts a course for a thriving river system over the next 50 years.

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Of Anzac Day

April 23, 2024
Written by: The AIM Network
9 Replies

By Maria Millers

For many the long-stablished story of the Gallipoli landings and to a lesser extent the Western Front remain the defining moments for our country. Just minted as a new nation in 1901, but still very British, our other achievements were put aside to lay the foundations of our national identity based on our participation in a war that ended up costing us so much in human terms: the injured and damaged, the toll on families and the disruption to our society

So why then have we not given the same importance to other aspects of our history? After all, the coming together of six British colonies as a new nation was an enormous achievement. Equally impressive were the pioneering social reforms that this newly federated nation was able to achieve ahead of many other countries: from granting women the right to vote and stand for elections, to social reforms like the old Age pension in 1909.Significant industrial and welfare reforms followed establishing Australia as ‘a path breaking new nation.’

Instead we have been made to accept war as a defining moment of our entry into nationhood.

War correspondent Charles Bean was most influential in creating the myth we have come to accept uncritically. His writing was often far from the reality of what it was like on the ground or mud at Gallipoli and the Western Front and he wrote what he thought the public back home wanted to hear. His writing also reflected the opinions of Officers in the AIF and the politicians back home.

But as political historian Benedict Anderson once said, national identity is a product of the imagination, and the stories we choose to tell ourselves about our past are the ones that define us. We have created an idealised sanitised version of a tall, khaki clad man with a slouch hat against a backdrop of some defining war image.

Yet among the first ‘Anzacs’ there were also Indigenous Australians, Australians of German descent, and Asian Australians. Some 1000 Indigenous Australians are thought to have served in the AIF, on Gallipoli and the Western Front. And 3000 Australian women enlisted in WW1 as nurses, doctors and in other supportive roles.

Another contentious issue is that our reflection of our military history never acknowledges the unspoken wars: The Frontier Wars between settlers and the Indigenous. The official Anzac story however has been nurtured and elevated to the status of a national myth. And myths are always preferred to historical accuracy.

The first Anzac Day march took place in 1916 and was very much about recruiting for the ongoing war. The first Dawn Service was in 1920 and by 1927 Anzac Day became a public holiday in all states and territories.

The horrendous loss of life in WW1 impacted on Australian society in so many ways. In a country of around 5 million 62000 had lost their lives. The ongoing focus on the moment of battle ignored the post war suffering of this huge number of men (and women) who returned shell shocked, wounded, disabled and disfigured. Equally impacted were the families who cared for them.

But politicians soon realized that there was political mileage in promoting the Anzac story, particularly when there was an unpopular war to prosecute. Prime Ministers from Hawke, Howard through to Gillard and Rudd have all used the Anzac story for political reasons.

Not that there was no criticism about what some called ‘legislated nostalgia’ that came to surround Anzac Day and its commemoration. Writers like George Johnston and playwright Alan Seymour challenged this approach to our military history.

Seymour’s play revolves around a father son conflict. The son, Hughie a university student refuses for the first time to attend the dawn service which traditionally was then followed by a day of drunkenness, illegal gambling and the inevitable brawls and public vomiting.

Alf his father has served and is an embittered man. This play which was so controversial back in the 60s is eerily relevant as it looks at so many issues we still grapple with today: immigration, health services, substance abuse, family violence and the recent rise of jingoism that has crept into our commemoration of Anzac and other wars we have been involved in.

Similarly, writer George Johnston in his autobiographical novel My Brother Jack brings us face to face with the reality for those tens of thousands who made it back alive, but damaged, Who can forget his description of the hallway of the Meredith home: a gas mask on the hall stand, sturdy walking sticks, artificial limbs propped up against a wall and the inevitable wheelchair, all powerful symbols of the impact of the war on those who served. And these were just the obvious physical injuries and not the mental ones that haunted so many then as well as those from recent conflicts such as the Vietnam War.

In the 1960s and 70s some Australians returning from the Vietnam War felt, as attitudes to the war changed, that their service during a decade of conflict 1962- 1972 was not appreciated by the public and that they were excluded from the Anzac tradition. They chose not to participate in Anzac Day events until October 1987 when a special Welcome Home Parade was held. Tragically 523 had died, 3000 were wounded and many still carry psychological wounds.

A more recent commentary comes from Iraq and Afghanistan veteran James Brown in his book Anzac’s Long Shadow where he argues that Australia is spending too much time, money and emotion on our obsession with the Anzac legend at the expense of current serving men and women. He dismisses any suggestion that criticism of the Anzac myth is ‘unaustralian.’ And he pulls no punches in calling out the clubs, charities and corporations that exploit the Anzac theme for commercial gain.

The term Anzackery was coined by historian Geoffrey Serle to draw attention to inflated rhetoric that has built up around Anzac Day celebrations. He would have found it disturbing to see how a jingoistic tone has crept into the commemorations. Add to that the ever-expanding range of Anzac merchandise from badges, oven mitts, Tshirts, poppies and other kitsch mementoes and Gallipoli cruises. It is hoped that some of the proceeds flow to making life easier for the veterans.

Myths and legends reflect the values of the societies in which they exist and at the core of the Anzac tradition is the belief that nations and men are made in war. This prevents us from asking important questions about who we are and what kind of society we want to live in.

Many Australians, while respectful of our war dead, are uncomfortable with the way we now remember them. Families will always mourn their loved ones and respect memories of their ancestors without the need for exaggerated sentimentalism.

Australia is a very different country today and choosing Gallipoli as the foundation moment for our nation is fraught with problems of leaving out so much of our rich and complex history from the national narrative. We should also remind ourselves of the reality of all wars, so vividly expressed in the following poem by Wilfred Owen:

Dulce et Decorum Est

Bent double, like old beggars under sacks,

Knock-kneed, coughing like hags, we cursed through sludge,

Till on the haunting flares we turned our backs,

And towards our distant rest began to trudge.

Men marched asleep. Many had lost their boots,

But limped on, blood-shod. All went lame; all blind;

Drunk with fatigue; deaf even to the hoots

Of gas-shells dropping softly behind.

Gas! GAS! Quick, boys! – An ecstasy of fumbling

Fitting the clumsy helmets just in time,

But someone still was yelling out and stumbling

And flound’ring like a man in fire or lime.

Dim through the misty panes and thick green light,

As under a green sea, I saw him drowning.

In all my dreams before my helpless sight,

He plunges at me, guttering, choking, drowning.

If in some smothering dreams, you too could pace

Behind the wagon that we flung him in,

And watch the white eyes writhing in his face,

His hanging face, like a devil’s sick of sin;

If you could hear, at every jolt, the blood

Come gargling from the froth-corrupted lungs,

Obscene as cancer, bitter as the cud

Of vile, incurable sores on innocent tongues,

My friend, you would not tell with such high zest

To children ardent for some desperate glory,

The old Lie: Dulce et decorum est

Pro patria mori.

Notes: Latin phrase is from the Roman poet Horace: “It is sweet and fitting to die for one’s country.”

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Media statement: update on removal of extreme violent content

April 23, 2024
Written by: The AIM Network
2 Replies

By a spokesperson for the eSafety Commissioner:

Yesterday the Federal Court granted an interim injunction compelling X Corp to hide Class 1 material on X that was the subject of eSafety’s removal notice of 16 April, 2024.

In summary, eSafety’s removal notice to X Corp required it to take all reasonable steps to ensure the removal of the extreme violent video content of the alleged terrorist act at Wakeley in Sydney on 15 April. The removal notice identified specific URLs where the material was located.

X Corp has 24 hours to comply with the Court’s interim order, beginning from the time the court issued the interim injunction order on Monday evening.

eSafety expects a further hearing to take place in the coming days during which the Court will be asked to decide whether it will extend the interim injunction.

It is expected this second hearing will be followed by a final hearing at which eSafety will seek a permanent injunction and civil penalties against X Corp. The date of the final hearing will be determined by the Court.

To be clear, eSafety’s removal notice does not relate to commentary, public debate or other posts about this event, even those which may link to extreme violent content. It only concerns the video of the violent stabbing attack on Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel.

Following the events of 15 April, eSafety worked cooperatively with other companies, including, Google, Microsoft, Snap and Tik Tok, to remove the material.

Some of these companies have taken additional, proactive steps to reduce further spread of the material. We thank them for those efforts.

While it may be difficult to eradicate damaging content from the internet entirely, particularly as users continue to repost it, eSafety requires platforms to do everything practical and reasonable to minimise the harm it may cause to Australians and the Australian community.

Last Tuesday, April 16, eSafety issued Class 1 removal notices to Meta and X Corp, formally seeking removal of this material from their platforms. In the case of Meta, eSafety was satisfied with its compliance because Meta quickly removed the material identified in the notice.

In the case of X Corp, eSafety was not satisfied the actions it took constituted compliance with the removal notice and sought an interim injunction from the Federal Court.

eSafety will continue using its suite of powers under the Online Safety Act to protect Australians from serious online harms, including extreme violent content.

Further information about eSafety’s powers in relation to the Online Content Scheme, including enforcement action, is available here: Online Content Scheme Regulatory Guidance.pdf (esafety.gov.au). Under the Online Safety Act, the maximum civil penalty for non-compliance with a removal notice for a body corporate is $782,500 per contravention.

Federal Court judgements, hearing details and information about accessing Court documents are available from the Court: Federal Court of Australia (fedcourt.gov.au)

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Not in my name

April 23, 2024
Written by: The AIM Network
5 Replies

By Roger Chao

Not in my name

In this quiet hour, I summon words, a humble man amidst shadows long,

To speak of wounds not my own, to voice a plea so loud and strong.

For streets that haunt with harried silence, for whispers in the dark,

For the women who carry nightmares in the hollows of their hearts,

I say, not in my name, shall this darkness be just fate.

Not in my name, will the long night prowl with fears that speak untold,

Where sisters, mothers, daughters, wives, brave the icy streets so cold.

Each step a story of caution, each shadow a stifling cage,

In their eyes, an unshackled resilience, a silent but building rage.

Not in my name, shall safety be a treasure locked by sun’s last light.

A father’s heart, a brother’s vow, to guard and cherish life so dear,

Yet, lurking in the darkness’ shroud, a haunting, pervasive arc of fear.

For every woman who dares to dream, of simple walks in moon’s embrace,

Finds not the peace of starlit streams, but wary steps she must retrace.

Not in my name, shall fear strip their freedoms bare.

From park to bus stop, from alley to the open market’s sprawl,

There’s a vast trembling unspoken, a siege without a single wall.

Why should freedom wear curfews, tied down by heavy cords of threat?

Why must half the world’s hearts beat loud and their foreheads bead with sweat?

Not in my name, shall freedom’s price be paid with fear.

Hear the voices rising now, a chorus grown too loud to mute,

Of those refused their evening walks, a jog, a simple forest route.

See the power in their marching, in their signs, and in their tears,

Resisting the violent silences that have spanned through many years.

Not in my name, shall the violent claim their gruesome deeds are just.

Oh, how can it be in age so bold, where justice claims its ever reach,

That women young and women old, must cautiously move and freedom beseech?

It is not just, it is not right, this burden heavy they must bear,

To shrink beneath the veil of night, feeling eyes that linger, stare.

Not in my name, shall this blight persist its dawn.

From my own steps, unburdened, free, I wander paths both far and near,

Yet ponder deep this irony, that half the world moves gripped with fear.

What creed or colour matters not, when shadows threaten, chilled to the bone,

For we are kin, this truth forgot: a woman’s fight for safety – our own.

Not in my name shall this imbalance further propagate.

Let not the blame rest upon the shoulders of those who merely live,

Who seek only the liberty that the light of day can give.

The burden is on us as men, men to stand, and men to hear,

To hold our brothers accountable, to lend our voice clear.

Not in my name, shall passivity be our spirit’s stance.

I call upon my brothers, to break the chains we see and don’t see,

To challenge each cruel whisper, each injustice, with fervent plea.

For in our silence, we speak volumes; in inaction, we consent,

To the perpetuation of fear, of loss, the freedoms rent.

Not in my name, shall I walk this path in silence, nor in blame.

This is our moment, forged in the glowing courage of those who dare

To reclaim their nights, their rights, to breathe free the sweet evening air.

Together, let us rewrite the longstanding rules of night and day,

Where every soul can wander free, where strident fear dissolves away.

Not in my name, not in my name, shall this world remain the same.

To walk in peace, to jog alone, should not be acts of courage told,

But everyday by sunlight shown, in stories both bright and bold.

So here I stand, a man, a shield, against the dark that preys unchecked,

Until the streets at night are healed, with dignity and respect.

Not in my name, shall women grip their keys between braced knuckles.

Thus, I stand before you, a man amidst the now turning tide,

To declare, through poetic lines, where my convictions do abide.

For every single woman’s right, for every life restrained by dread,

I’ll raise my voice, I’ll fight their fight and not leave a word unsaid.

Not in my name, shall the shadows rule; we demand the dawn.

So I will stand, and I will call, and raise my voice in this grim tide,

To challenge night, to build a wall of solidarity wide.

For every time a woman shrinks within herself to hide her fear,

A piece of our humanity sinks, lost within this frontier.

Not in my name, shall women glance in fear o’er their track.

I stand beside, not in front, my voice a quiet but growing hum,

For this is not my story to tell, but I will not be numb.

The dark history of battles, scored deep in silent welling tears,

Calls me to a solemn duty that transcends all gendered fears.

Not in my name, shall women carry the weight of blame.

For too long, the lingering night has claimed them, a shadowy domain,

Where whispered threats and clutching fears form an oft recurring chain.

Each news cycle spins its stories, the headlines all too stark and clear:

Another one assaulted, raped, more violence for women to fear.

Not in my name, shall these grievous events stir.

We talk of change, we talk of rights, in buildings both large and small,

But talk must move to action now, to change this once and for all.

It’s not just about the alleys, or the dangers lurking late,

It’s about the homes, the offices, where power seals their fate.

Not in my name, shall this abomination pursue its prey.

No more, they say, and no more, I echo, standing by their side,

No more using strength to smother, or secrets to further divide.

No more culture that dismisses, no more brushing off the pain,

No more turning blind eyes, allowing these horrors to remain.

Not in my name, not in my name, not in my name.

Let this refrain, not in my name, echo through the streets and time,

A call to change, from every man, and in every single clime.

May it carry the weight of justice, may it break the chains of fear,

May it be heard, may it be lived, until no one must adhere.

Not in my name, no, not in my name, shall we permit this night to last.

With every single line penned, with every chorus that we recite,

Let us mend the fabric torn, of humanity’s vast, vibrant site.

For all the world’s daughters and sisters, for justice, bright and bold,

Not in my name, shall the story of fear ever be retold.

Not in my name, not in my name, with these words, I stake my claim.

Not in my name, not in my name, not in my name.

Roger Chao is a writer based in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges, where the forest and local community inspire his writings. Passionate about social justice, Roger strives to use his writing to engage audiences to think critically about the role they can play in making a difference.

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Political Futures: Prepare for the Onslaught from Professionalized Lobbyists

April 22, 2024
Written by: The AIM Network
18 Replies

By Denis Bright

Australia is quite vulnerable to political instability associated with future downturns in global trade and investment. Despite the current affordability crisis, market volatility is currently quite low in Australia largely because of our ties with dynamic Asian economies. Still, periods of market correction every 10-15 years challenge the policy skills of each generation of policy movers.

Even in times of low official unemployment levels, the latest polling from the Freshwater Group (AFR 15 April 2024) shows that Labor’s primary vote has dropped to 31 per cent after just two years in government.

This is a crucial loss of 1.8 per cent in Labor’s support base or 2 per cent after preferences. Only Peter Dutton’s flat preferred prime ministerial ratings are keeping Labor two-party preferred vote at 50 per cent within the usual margin of error in all responsible polling.

The key issues identified in the Freshwater Polling are cost-of-living (74 per cent), followed by affordable housing (41 per cent), health and social security (27 per cent) as well as economic management (26 per cent). Environmental management comes next on (19 per cent).

Voters are still playing a wait and see game with key voter priorities as shown by the large numbers of unresolved issues in these threads of public opinion.

Conservative lobbying groups have emerged to wedge public opinion in these indecisive times when interest in mainstream politics is not a popular past time. Voters have more narcissistic interests even in financially stressful times and tune-off against too much negative political rhetoric.

Mainstream political parties must stay ahead of these subversive framing and agenda setting games by offering policy solutions to the problems raised by minority groups to erode the remnants of Australia’s two-party system. The most important response is to promote policy solutions on those emotionally charged issues such as shortage of affordable housing, price increases for essential items, increased immigration and crime.

Introducing the Advance Conservative Lobbying Group

Advance uses its financial resources to assist in destroying the appeal of progressive spectrum of Australian politics.

The Guardian has covered the links between Advance and the Whitestone Strategic Group (Ariel Bagle and Sarah Basford Canales 1 March 2024). As a political player which espouses self-proclaimed mainstream values, Advance should be more open to public scrutiny relating to its sources of finance, local steering committees and national leadership coordinators.

A similar interpretation could be made of mainstream political parties in receipt of substantial amounts of public funding in proportion to the votes obtained at previous state or federal elections. Too much subterranean factional intrigue as well as excessive use of lobbyists and consultancy firms to keep political elites informed of community needs erode the primary votes of mainstream parties to add more fracturing to Australian politics.

Labor too needs to improve its current primary vote which was 32.6 per cent at the last successful national election to become less dependent on preference allocations from the Greens and progressive independents. Labor’s national primary vote in 2022 was 6 per cent lower than in 1996 when the LNP won by a landslide. It was 0.8 per cent below the landslide against Kevin Rudd in 2013.

Lobbying expenditure by Advance in 2022-23 was than campaign expenditure from GetUp!. This expenditure amounted to $7.8 million. These donations average eighteen dollars to raise $5.8 million from 19,288 donors in the last year to April 2024 (GetUp! web site). This campaign expenditure from GetUp! is crucial to the maintenance of a thriving democracy.

The AEC currently has limited control over less transparent third-party networks. These networks are required to submit returns of campaign expenditures but sanctions against offering misinformation to voters are less clear-cut. The AEC’s own media network did report action on complaints by two independent candidates at the 2022 Australian elections over signage authorized by Advance on trucks near pre-polling booths.

Yet another grey area relates to the harvesting of Postal Vote applications with individually addressed mail-outs to constituents particularly from the LNP.

Harvesting Of Postal Votes

Long before the arrival of Advance as a conservative lobbying group in 2018, dodgy strategies were used by the LNP at all levels of government to harvest postal votes in Queensland using Postal Vote Application Centres (PVAs). These are post office box addresses operated by the LNP to assist constituents to make use of the postal vote system. At the recent Brisbane City Council Elections, the PVA Centre was located at Post Office Box 938 in Spring Hill. Similar post-office box addresses paraded out at state and federal elections without sanctions from the AEC or state electoral commissions.

Having the various electoral commissions supplying the relevant form by mail-out to registered users of postal votes in the past is the best option to avoid coercive controls by well financed postal vote harvesting strategies.

Professor Emeritus John Wanna at Griffith University has criticized the use of PVA centres as a front for the LNP in the harvesting of postal votes (Enlighten Newsletter at Griffith University):

“This practice is not illegal under current legislation, but is it open and transparent? Does it observe the necessary proprieties of impartial electoral administration? Do electors know that their personal information is going to political parties before the form goes to the AEC?

This interference with the postal vote application process is nudging us down the Americanisation of electoral administration. The various systems of electoral administration used across the USA are fundamentally not impartial and operated by party political officials often for partisan advantage.

Voters should be worried about the transfer of their personal information to party headquarters without their consent. The new practice of re-routing the postal vote application process in Australia reflects an objectionable drift towards the Americanisation of our electoral process. It will tend to lessen the confidence Australians have in the impartiality of the electoral system, which is all important to our trust in democracy.”

The return of political autocracy has no place in potentially enlightened times through the spread of misinformation and dodgy harvesting of postal votes through PVA centres which are merely a front for a more right-wing LNP.

Gilbert & Sullivan lampooned the excesses of political intrigue in the HMS Pinafore musical long before the arrival of a more deceptive AI era in contemporary political manipulation. Queen Victoria’s empire was still in its ascendency. Neoliberalism offers new empires of power and influence with promotional avenues for aspiring leaders who still enjoy polishing the handles of big front doors to rewarding leadership paths with options of corporate board positions or new opportunities with lobbying and consultancy networks after retirement from politics.

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Jake’s First Ride West

April 22, 2024
Written by: The AIM Network
1 Reply

By James Moore

“We need the tonic of wildness. At the same time that we are earnest to explore and learn all things, we require that all things be mysterious and un-explorable, that land and sea be indefinitely wild, un-surveyed and unfathomed by us because it is unfathomable. We can never have enough of nature.” – Thoreau

I once rode up to the headwaters of two rivers in one day. Motorcycles can simplify such accomplishments. The Guadalupe I knew well and had traveled much of its length in a canoe and raft, and I had seen it in a fierce flood that had taken innocent lives. Upstream where the river moves placidly over shining limestone beds it is not easy to imagine murderous rushes of water leaving float piles of debris a hundred feet up in the branches of an ancient cypress, but it is not uncommon.

Riding over the low water crossings of the river on my way west I was still unable to imagine such flooding. The Guadalupe is a languorous, spring-fed flow that offers mostly shallow pools and views to clear, stony bottoms. The crystalline reflection of a spring sun was almost blinding but offered no evidence nature might wrest such a tragedy from such an idyllic setting.

The big BMW motorbike was nearly as silent as a trickling river and took me up a slow rise to a box canyon that had long ago birthed another river. A visitor follows the water back up to a limestone cliff where hundreds of springs leak from the rock and gather into a flow that becomes the Frio River. Once known to beer marketers as the “Land of 1100 Springs,” a 10,000-acre ranch was worked along these headwaters by descendants of Stephen F. Austin’s sister.

The Frio River

Oma Bell Perry, who had never married, and her sister, deeded the land over to Gary Priour, the poet-philanthropist who has devoted his adult life to raising children broken by unfair circumstances of their birth. Invisible hands, Priour has always claimed, guide his work, and when visitors see children playing in the water beneath the Texas sun, they understand why the ranch’s location is now referred to as “The Canyon of Angels.”

The highway through Frio Canyon unspools from the hill country twists to an easy run toward Uvalde. The hills are almost Irish green and treed with live oak and cottonwood and the tall cypress that always find the water. I slow the bike and stop for pictures without thinking I might be keeping a friend waiting down on Highway 90. Leakey and Utopia, dreamy little country towns, demand lingering but I pass through as quickly as though I were watching a movie and roll the throttle up.

Jake and I connect and move in the direction of the sun, riding parallel to the Rio Grande. His bike shines and rumbles in the southwestern glare as we get west of Del Rio. The sky must be as clear and blue as the day the world began to spin. Bluebonnets and paint brush spread out over the rocky hills and color the desert. Water from Lake Amistad is backed up into what ought to be dusty arroyos that have been transformed into canals and waterways that are settings for large vacation homes owned by wealthy Mexicans. The vistas are improbable after the urban franchise sprawl of Del Rio, an unusual border town that is surrendering to American homogenization.

Highway 505, South Toward Mexico

Jake is an excitable boy in his 70s and cannot wait for the Davis Mountains to rise in front of us. He has spoken vaguely about cross country motorcycle rides but I am not certain he has experience with longer trips. His enthusiasm suggests this is certainly the first time he has gotten on two wheels for a run to the Texas Trans Pecos. Always energized by this ride, I am, nonetheless, affected by Jake’s garrulousness on our stops and become enamored anew with familiar sights. Being a lobbyist in the state capitol and living in the tropical Rio Grande Valley has kept him from such scenery most of his life.

The sky gets bigger and consumes the countryside. We catch glimpses of Lake Amistad between the low mesas until U.S. 90 points down toward a river bridge. The Pecos, rarely much wider than a city sidewalk, has cut a deep canyon on approach to the lake. Water appears to be hardly moving but from above it is clear and shimmering in the breeze. The watercourse of the Pecos, which is mostly through the arid ranch country along the eastern perimeter of the Chihuahua Desert, has made it one of the most disputed water sources in the civilized world. Thousands of years before we motored across the river, indigenous peoples lived in the canyon below, possibly some of the first in North America, and they have left stone paintings and petroglyphs on the walls of caves and rock overhangs down where the Pecos meets the dammed up Rio Grande.

Pecos River Canyon

There are still lawsuits over the diversion and consumption of the Pecos and when you stand on its bank and taste the sweetness of the water in 100-degree heat, surrounded by rock, sand, and cactus, you understand why it has been treated as sacred by every human who has lived within its watershed. Encircled by ocotillo and pinon and cholla in the rising spring heat and staring down at the Pecos from the bridge, I end up thinking about the delta down on the Gulf Coast where the Old and the Lost River sweeps to the sea. Those two waterways always have looked to me as though they have the capacity to slake the thirst of all eight billion souls on board our little ship even as we shoot at each other across a stream like the Pecos.

The world continues to confound me.

When the road levels out farther west, we see the green and white Border Patrol vehicles dragging tires behind them on a long rope. A dirt track has been bladed beside the highway beyond the bar ditch and up next to the fence line. The dusty line runs west to Sanderson and then beyond toward Marathon and Van Horn and there are several of the government SUVs pulling tires and covering their tracks.

Unless you know the border, there is no context for such an absurd endeavor. River crossers with the right gear and water and food often come to these remote spots to enter the U.S. They are sometimes carrying backpacks with marijuana or other “contradbando,” but mostly they are just determined spirits that believe they can survive anything if they just get to America. The soil itself holds a magic for them. They are often wrong, though. The Border Patrol drags the dirt to make footprints visible and to know where to go to capture the transgressor.

“Seems to me we ought to want those guys here,” I heard an acquaintance say over breakfast in Marathon. “Anybody gets that far; they are pretty damned determined and might be useful in a country like ours.”

There were just Jake and I at a nearby table, each with a full head of hair, and not a single strand showed any color. We only looked like we might have a touch of wisdom. Such a judgment was only marginally accurate.

“Just seems to me like an insane waste of money,” I said, aware that we had both overheard the nearby conversation. “Doesn’t appear to offer much of a return on investment by catching a few pounds of marijuana or the lone border runner.”

“Well, Jimmy, we don’t have much say about it either way,” Jake said. “It’s just the way it is along that river.”

“They’ve been doing that drag and detect foolishness since I was a kid,” the man at the other table said, having picked up our exchange. “No way of knowing if it’s effective.”

“It’s effective at spending government tax money and keeping people employed,” I told him. “And I suspect that’s what matters more than few pounds of pot being confiscated. Makes politicians feel better, too. Secure the border!!”

Jake and I sped south toward the national park after breakfast and watched the clouds shred themselves on the Glass Mountains. The sky above was clear and blue but the pretty people on the motel TV had said rain was likely before sundown. I was skeptical as we began the sharp climb up to the Chisos Basin a few hours later because we stopped and looked behind us to the north and the air was pure enough to almost make visible McDonald Observatory about 150 miles distant.

The park road curled so sharply it almost felt as if it were twisting back onto itself and we slowly rose to altitude past the signs warning about bears and panthers. The ancient world was visible from up there and looking through “The Window” that opened up between two mountains at the desert floor, I had no trouble imagining great prehistoric species stalking the far plains along the shores of ancient, inland seas.

The Window, Chisos Basin, Big Bend National Park

We ended up on the porch of the general store in Terlingua, a ghost town that thrived briefly during a global demand for mercury. There is now the little store and the Starlight Restaurant and rustic adobes turned into pricey bed and breakfast establishments. A few cantinas and burger joints are along the bumpy road up the hill. The predominant feature, though, is the graveyard with Spanish surnames cut crudely into stone or desiccated wood crosses, many of them tilted by weather and time.

I went to the icebox in the general store and got two Tecates and came back out to sit on the bench that spans the front of the building and looks out over the long slope back to the river. The Chisos cut a ragged line across the horizon as we looked eastward toward the park and leaned against the wall to talk with the assembled strangers.

“Where’d you two ride from?”

The question was from a young man in a dirty baseball cap, jeans, and work boots. His dark tee shirt was sweated through and dirty but it was not torn.

“Different places. Austin and the Rio Grande Valley,” I said.

“I need to get to Austin some day,” he said. “But it’s just another big, corporate city now, I suppose.”

“There’s more than just a touch of that, for sure,” I said. “Whatever we used to like about it thirty years ago is slipping away. Where are you from?”

“Oh, Connecticut.”

“Really? What in the hell got you out here?”

“I just wanted to get as far away from corporate bullshit as I could and this looked like the best spot on the map.”

“You don’t look old enough to be fed up with climbing the corporate ladder.”

He cut his eyes at me but then smiled. “Well, I am. I hated it. I had a good job. But it was all politics and caring about shit that seemed pretty stupid to me. Out here, I work when I want, do what I want, and nobody cares what I think or do.”

“I guess that’s worth more than a corporate salary.”

“It is,” he said, and then pointed to the Chisos. “The light at the end of the day on those ranges never gets old to me. Ain’t it funny? This is probably the only place in America where people come to sit and see the sunset by looking east at those mountains.”

The people who live in the desert around the ghost town all have a story about wanting to be away from the world. They move up into the remote stretches and build adobes and survive off the grid but never have to impress another human or answer any questions. I have met government agents and truck drivers and drug runners sitting the sun on that general store porch and they all view privacy as Terlingua’s most precious commodity.

We got back on the bikes and went north toward Alpine. Crossing deserts on a motorcycle always leaves me with a sense that even the most mundane human act takes on epic proportions. Closing a door or simply walking across a street feels like it has a connectedness to some grander endeavor, which cannot immediately be known. This is mostly delusional, I suppose, but no one ever seems to simply watch the rain as it falls after a storm arrives in a desert; they appear to be battling the elements before an incomprehensible backdrop. I have ridden across the Mojave, Sonoran, and Chihuahua deserts many times and up and down the Great Basin and have always expected the universe to reveal secrets as the road endlessly extends.

More than an hour out of Alpine we had ridden under a black sky and left the sun shining behind us on the canyons of the Rio Grande. Lightning shot across our view in sharp-edged bolts and the thunderclaps were disturbing even above the wind and engine noise. When we rode into the rain, we were drenched in minutes, and as we came over each rise I looked to the north for a break in the sky and a furtive hope our destination might yet be dry.

Curtains of rain hung over the high mesas to our east and the inky black in some parts of the cloud cover faded to gray. Rain sways as belts in the far wind. Immediately, small breaks appeared in the storm and the sun found a few white basalt hills and dried out ranges and illuminated them in the afternoon darkness. A spotlight was cast across our front and onto a scene as old and eroded as it can be made by time and the elements. The show was almost more than could be imagined because the light and the dark and the rain and the desert offered such contrasts in microcosm.

“I prayed all the way through that storm, Jimmy,” Jake said later. “I got us some good mojo.”

We are eating thick steaks at the Reata and trying to dry out over dinner. Friday night was working hard to be exciting outside in Alpine.

“I guess you got us some magic then, Jake. Here we are. Wet but alive. And you’ll remember that stretch of Texas highway, I bet.”

“Yeah, but let’s not do that again real soon, pardner.”

“Let’s see what the ride looks like back to Marathon.”

The storm was rolling east as we ate, and we lingered to give it time enough to pass but as we went back down U.S. 90 the lightning lit our way. We did not hear thunder, but the cell was curling back on its own cloud tops and peeling away toward Del Rio, leaving great flashes of light across the night as it receded. We slowed enough to let the weather guide us down the road, but we were still surrounded by momentary brightness and daggers of light that seemed like cannon shot and were frequent enough that they might eventually find their targets.

We had dined also the day previous in Marfa at the old Paisano Hotel, and I was confident the ghosts of Liz Taylor, Rock Hudson, James Dean, and Dennis Hopper were shuffling the halls looking for their rooms and wondering what had happened to the desert ranch town they had left behind after filming Edna Ferber’s “Giant.” I worried greatly about the monsoon and lightning also turning us into something incorporeal.

Almost biblical rain had fallen in Marathon by the time we parked our bikes. Six to eight inches running across the rock and finding the dry arroyos, eventually reaching the Rio Grande.

Jake took off his helmet and smiled in the dim light from the cabins. “Got ya more mojo there, too, brother. Kept ya safe all the way in.”

“Yep, you are, from here on, Lightnin’ Jake.”

The magical desert sky and the western landscapes had fooled me yet again. And made me believe we were immortal.

Jacob Fuller, Dec. 1940 – Mar. 2024 RIP

This article was originally published on Texas to the world.

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The Silent Truth

April 20, 2024
Written by: The AIM Network
6 Replies

By Roger Chao

The Silent Truth

In the tumult of a raging battle, beneath the echoing cries,

Where shadows merge with fading lights, the silent truth belies.

A world not split by borders, nor by rifles drawn in dread,

But bound by shared existence, in the spaces tear-stained red.

We gather here as fragments of a once harmonious whole,

Diverse in thought and creed, yet one in heart, in soul.

For pain, it knows no language, nor sorrow a flag does claim;

In every mother’s weeping eyes, the tears fall just the same.

The earth beneath our feet, soaked with the ages’ cries,

Does not discern the victor, nor the truth amongst the lies.

It absorbs each drop of blood as if to cleanse our skin,

Hoping perhaps that from this soil, peace might grow within.

Can you hear the echoes of the fallen, whispering in the breeze?

Their voices carry stories across the oceans, through the trees.

They speak of dreams unfulfilled, of lives too swiftly taken,

They sing a sombre lullaby of the lost and the forsaken.

For what is war but a mirror reflecting our darkest fears,

A testament to what is lost through forgetting our common tears.

A child’s laughter silenced before it can fully form,

A lover’s bed left cold and empty, never to be warm.

Imagine now a world untouched by the scourge of war’s design,

Where the morning dew whispers of peace, and all our hopes align.

Where children’s laughter fills the air, free from the shadow of fear,

And the old are left to ponder life, with no more need for tears.

Let us then lay down the arms that serve only to divide,

And walk the path of understanding, with our hearts open wide.

For we are one beneath the stars, in the sun’s eternal light,

Divided not by our differences, but bound by our shared plight.

So remember this silent truth, not anger, hate or blame,

That the dreams and hopes and fears we share, are proof we are the same.

And never again shall division, see the light of day,

For in unity, we find strength, and in humanity, our way.

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