Lowy Institute Papers

Forty years after independence, Papua New Guinea is the largest single recipient of aid from Australia. Yet Australians seem to be largely ambivalent about the country. Few Australians know the history of our colonial rule in PNG and our ties to the country are being forgotten.    

In this Lowy Institute Paper, Sydney Morning Herald International Editor and Lowy Institute Nonresident Fellow Peter Hartcher argues that Australia needs to shake off its 'provincial reflex' and become a mature player in global affairs

Cate Sumner and Tim Lindsey explore how the Islamic courts in Indonesia have embraced reform within a judicial system notorious for corruption and incompetence, taking the lead in efforts to deliver decisions that are more accessible, transparent and fair.  

Dr Milton Osborne evaluates the potentially huge social and environmental risks for the Mekong River and the millions who depend on it for their livelihood of planned dam projects in Laos and Cambodia