The Return of the West

How has Russia's invasion of Ukraine changed the international security, economic and political terrain?

“The war in Europe will leave China in a stronger position, as it unifies the West. This is something Canberra has largely failed to recognise.” Geoff Raby

The sixteenth issue of Australian Foreign Affairs examines the global upheaval caused by the war in Ukraine, which has heightened the tensions between democracies and authoritarian states, and has led to a more assertive Europe that could represent a new force in world affairs.

The Return of the West looks at the challenges for Australia in the post-invasion international order and the changing role of economics, military power, cyber capabilities and strongman rulers.


• Geoff Raby explores the impact of the war in Ukraine on the world order and what this means for Australia's foreign policy.

• Jeffrey Wilson looks at how Australia can secure its economy against the growing threats to the global trade system.

• Laura Tingle reports from Europe on whether it can shake off its lethargy to become a great global power.

• Gwynne Dyer analyses what Taiwan can learn from Russia's invasion of Ukraine about how to defend itself against China.

• Geraldine Doogue examines the challenges facing Penny Wong as Australia's new foreign minister.

• Melissa Conley Tyler and Cherie Lagakali propose a partnership with the Pacific to boost the region's digital capabilities.

PLUS Correspondence on AFA15: Our Unstable Neighbourhood from Huong Le Thu, Marc Purcell, Michael Wesley and more.