Boyer Lecture: The boldness Australia needs has no political home right now
Sam Roggeveen's Boyer Lecture argues that Australia must navigate a changing global landscape defined by the rise of Asia and the decline of Western liberal democratic norms. He suggests Australia should prioritize self-reliance over dependence on external powers.
Why it matters
This discourse addresses Australia's long-term geopolitical strategy and identity in a post-Western era.
Australia can't afford to turn its back on Asia the way the UK turned its back on Europe. ( Giulio Saggin: ABC News )
Link copied Share Share article This year's Boyer Lecture series explores the opportunities and challenges of Australia's engagement with Asia in the 21st century. Keynote speaker Sam Roggeveen, director of the Lowy Institute's International Security Program, gave his lecture Four Forces: Australia in the New Asia this evening. This is an edited extract.
The biggest change to Australia's region since World War II is underway. Three forces are reshaping Asia and Australia's place in it: the decline of one empire, the rise of another, and the emergence of a powerful neighbour on Australia's doorstep.
Amid this regional shift, a fourth potent force is at play: an unmistakeable change in the character of Western liberal democracy, including in Australia.
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