Today, many liberal democracies appear divided and consumed by internal and external challenges. The covid-19 pandemic has put unprecedented pressure on democracies, in particular the balancing of freedom and security for their citizens. At the same time, anti-democratic authoritarian powers are advancing their interests around the world. Countries that were once on track to being strong democracies are backsliding. In this webinar, our distinguished speakers will discuss whether democracy is in decline or not? What are the challenges for Australia, and what can we do to ensure our democracy remains healthy?

Speakers:

Anne Aly - Member for Cowan, former Professor at Edith Cowan University

Lydia Khalil - Research Fellow, West Asia Program, Lowy Institute

Julian Droogan - Senior Lecturer, Department of Security Studies and Criminology, Macquarie University