Peacekeeping operations have become increasingly complex and multidimensional and today's peacekeepers face new challenges. This report identifies the main criteria against which Australian decision makers should assess whether or not to commit to a peacekeeping operation. The committee is of the view that the Australian government should be satisfied that the mission's mandate has: clearly...

A significant number of government departments and agencies are engaged in work overseas that either directly or indirectly conveys to the world a positive image of Australia. The committee commended the work of Australia's government departments and agencies, the cultural and educational institutions and the many private organisations that are actively engaged in promoting Australia's...

China’s entry into the World Trade Organization in 2001 and the opening up of its domestic markets to international competition has transformed the country. Over recent years, China has experienced sustained rapid development and implemented wide-ranging economic reforms, including the lowering of trade and investment barriers. In opening up its markets, China has become a...

The Senate Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Legislation Committee devoted much of its examination during the budget estimates hearings in May 2004 to the matter of the duties of Australian personnel in Iraq particularly with regard to the treatment of Iraqi detainees. Since then, the matter of the treatment of Iraqi prisoners has not been...