This report argues that to succeed in the changing strategic environment, Australia needs a deeper understanding of our region's languages, cultures, histories, societies and economies. Asia capability is vital and the report makes 34 recommendations to strengthen it through Australia's education system.

This analysis examines the Philippines as a central test case in the South China Sea contest, where the People’s Republic of China is reshaping the maritime operating environment. The case also matters directly for Australia. Canberra is not a South China Sea claimant, but it depends on open maritime routes and is deepening defence cooperation...

Episodes over the past decade demonstrate how economic levers are being used to impose costs and reshape incentives without crossing traditional thresholds of conflict. This report argues for strengthening the connective tissue between policy, intelligence, economic and security functions so that information flows more freely, preparedness is built collectively and joint capabilities can withstand pressure.

In October 2000, the United Nations Security Council passed Resolution 1325 and created the Women, Peace and Security agenda. To commemorate the resolution’s 25th anniversary, this compendium features a collection of articles published on The Strategist. This series reflects on the progress made since 2000, including the transformative changes in women’s representation across security.

This bilingual research reveals how tensions in the South China Sea are misunderstood and misrepresented in Australia. It provides an overview of strategic and economic considerations, recent developments and policy outlook. It finds the often-repeated claim that China is aggressively expanding into the territory of neighbouring countries is an oversimplification of long-running tensions.