Programs & Projects

The International Security Program

The International Security Program

The International Security Program looks at strategic dynamics and security risks globally, with an emphasis on Australia's region of Indo-Pacific Asia. Its research spans strategic competition and the risks of conflict in Asia, security implications of the rise of China and India, maritime security, nuclear arms control, Australian defence policy and the changing character of conflict. The Program draws on a network of experts in Australia, Asia and globally, and is supported by diverse funding sources including grants from the MacArthur Foundation and the Nuclear Threat Initiative. It convenes international policy dialogues such as the 2017 Australia-ROK Emerging Leaders International Security Forum and has a record of producing leading-edge, influential reports.

Experts
Latest publications
News and media
Director, International Security Program
Nonresident Fellow
Nonresident Fellow
Conversations: Military Strategist Mick Ryan on Australia’s Defence Strategic Review
Podcasts
Conversations: Military Strategist Mick Ryan on Australia’s Defence Strategic Review
Military strategist Mick Ryan discusses Australia’s Defence Strategic Review with International Security Program Director Sam Roggeveen in this episode of Lowy Institute…
Why the US is quietly outshining China
Commentary
Why the US is quietly outshining China
Xi Jinping likes to say China owns the future and the West is in decline. But appearances can also deceive. Originally published in the Australian Financial Review.
Australia's South China Sea Challenges
Policy Briefs
Australia's South China Sea Challenges
Canberra needs to work with Southeast Asia to address looming South China Sea challenges from China and the US
The Crisis after the Crisis: How Ladakh will Shape India’s Competition with China
Analyses
The Crisis after the Crisis: How Ladakh will Shape India’s Competition with China
The border crisis in Ladakh may end in war or peace — or it may never end.
Eyes on the Prize: Australia, China, and the Antarctic Treaty System
Policy Briefs
Eyes on the Prize: Australia, China, and the Antarctic Treaty System
Despite China’s increasing assertiveness in Antarctica, the Antarctic Treaty System is not failing and Australia should refrain from geostrategic panic 
Why Australia Should Respond to China’s Provocations With Self-Reliance
Commentary
Why Australia Should Respond to China’s Provocations With Self-Reliance
Originally published in World Politics Review.
Trump or Biden, Australia is alone
Commentary
Trump or Biden, Australia is alone
America protected Europe through the Cold War with a credible nuclear deterrent. Indo-Pacific nations can expect no such pledge. Originally published in the Australian Financial…
The Australia–India Strategic Partnership: Accelerating Security Cooperation in the Indo–Pacific
Analyses
The Australia–India Strategic Partnership: Accelerating Security Cooperation in the Indo–Pacific
Shared concerns about China's rise have propelled Australia and India to deepen their security ties
Inside Story
20 March 2024
The Australian Financial Review
20 November 2023
ABC's PM program
20 November 2023
ABC RN Late Night Live
30 August 2023
Australian Financial Review Magazine
27 July 2023