Global Issues
Global Stocktake: Unlocking trillions for climate action
The most important component of this year’s round of UN climate negotiations is the Paris Agreement’s Global Stocktake. The Paris Agreement, an international treaty with 195…
Testimonial therapy: Buddhism’s influence in the aftermath of the Khmer Rouge tribunal
At the courtroom premises, robed monks gathered to chant. Candlelight cast a gentle glow as tendrils of incense wafted through the air, creating a sacred atmosphere as sunlight…
UN General Assembly: Snubs and fragmentation
The world’s premier annual rendezvous of diplomacy – the United Nations General Assembly – opens its 78th session in New York City tomorrow, the first fully in-person meeting…
Beijing’s plan for Taiwan challenges its offshore wind push
Military considerations are slowing China’s offshore wind energy deployment. The coastal province of Fujian, just opposite Taiwan, is critical to the Chinese People’s Liberation…
Critical minerals, critical choices: Australia’s role in shaping the green revolution
Prime Minister Albanese sparked a mini controversy last month by wearing a Rio Tinto shirt with “Anthony” emblazoned on the chest pocket to a press conference in Karratha. He was…
More than just rice: Asia’s food supply anxieties
Rice shortage fears are intensifying across Asia – a region where 90% of the world’s rice is produced and consumed – due to an ill-fated combination of rice production shortfall,…
The crucial role for the Green Climate Fund – and why Australia should contribute
Countries will decide next month how much they will pledge to the Green Climate Fund (GCF). The summit in Bonn, Germany could determine billions of dollars of financial support…
The Fix: A realist take(s) on ChatGPT
We’re asking contributors to put together their own short collected observations like this one – and as always, if you’ve got an idea to pitch for The Interpreter, drop a line…
The future of gig work
The gig economy – characterised by on-demand, freelance and short-term employment in which service providers connect with consumers through mobile apps and websites – is…
The sticky case of Indonesia, a seized Iranian oil tanker, and legal jurisdiction
The two giant freighters floated “dark” in the open ocean not far from Indonesia. Their positioning transponders switched off, neither tanker displayed a national flag – but one…