Democracy Under Threat
Where to from here.
This Page is Under Development
The World Has Changed
The result of the 2024 US presidential election has been a seismic shock to the world. Reverberations are being felt across the globe and it feels like we’re in a period of great disruption. A new world order is emerging where the rules based governance is no longer valued:
“Humankind is now facing unprecedented crises that imperils the entire ecosphere, including human civilization itself. To a great extent, these problems stem from the industrial revolution that began 150 years ago and the gradual domination of global culture by materialism as a worldview, hedonism as a prime value, and consumerism as a way of life.”
Not only has the threat to the environment increased exponentially, but the very foundations of democracy and the rule of law are being attacked from all directions. Trade wars are underway, institutions are being dismantled, sovereign territory is under threat of annexation, entire populations are to be relocated against their will.
This has significant implications for democracy in Australia in a number of ways and we need to:
Protect Our Institutions
We need to ensure that the institutions that underpin our democracy are not subject to political interference. The judiciary, police, defence forces, universities and government organisations are the backbone of our very fortunate society. Free and fair advice to government ministers is essential for effective governance. The corporations, businesses and industries which generate our sovereign wealth are far from perfect. But they do provide employment for millions of Australians and deliver the goods and services we need to survive. We need to support the business sector and call it to account when misconduct occurs. We also need to call it out when it occurs in our government organisations.
Cherish Our Values
Australia is one of the most ethnically diverse countries on earth. We’ve welcomed people from all parts of the globe. We need to cherish the values of equity and inclusion which are part of who we are. Equal opportunity and anti-discrimination legislation is in place in across Australia and underpins policies of diversity and inclusion. This diversity needs to be reflected in our various governments, corporations and community organisations.
Maintain Independence
We need to retain and cultivate a position of autonomy and independence in our international relations. This does not mean abandoning existing alliances. Most have been forged by history and shared values. We are a minor player in world events. But generally well respected for our integrity and even-mindedness. The worlds sees us as egalitarian with a sound system of governance. Let’s not blindly follow those who would potentially lead us into a darker place. We need to call out misconduct when it occurs.
The Environment is Non-Negotiable
Our environment is a top priority. In Australia we are uniquely blessed with a diversity of flora and fauna, clean air, a pristine landscape and an amazing coastline. The climate science and our expert authorities tells us various parts of the country are under existential threat. Floods and bushfires are a frequent occurrence. The Great Barrier Reef is being killed by rising water temperatures, invasive species and land based run-off. Sustainable practices need to guide all of our human activities.
Our perspective in independent. The issues speak for themselves.
“Right now we need to take stock and not simply follow the lead from other countries who may have a less compassionate ethos than our own. We need to foster education for all, support our institutions to be diverse and inclusive, encourage research and development, and perhaps most of all, put the community at the centre of our focus.”
Geoff Nunn, Governance Update, February 2025