Japan's response to the COVID-19 pandemic attracted the world's attention. The country's unconventional approach to combating the disease serves to throw the lockdown logic into question.

This month in Australian foreign affairs: Morrison’s comments on United States developments, new passenger caps, a cabinet reshuffle, Payne’s concern at Hong Kong arrests, and more.

With few exceptions, decision makers and opinion formers in Europe viewed the Trump presidency with increasing apprehension and disquiet. Their concern became alarm when the president refused to accept his election defeat and incited a mob of supporters to storm Congress in what was a violent attack on democracy.

There are rumblings that Chinese embargoes on Australian coal are having adverse economic impacts on dependent cities. How far will China’s “wolf warrior” diplomacy go in the interests of national image and pride, when doing so guarantees material detriment?

Besides failing to achieve their political end, the Thai army’s Information Operations have emerged as another critical source of social division. This has subsequently generated deeper political mistrust in Thai society.

Trump's recent suspension from social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook raises questions about the limits of free speech in a functioning democracy. The recent move signals that while online platforms welcome debate, when it is accompanied by violence they must draw a line.

As global adversaries expand their offensive digital capabilities, Australia's in danger of falling too far behind to catch up. After China launched a series of cyberattacks on Australian targets and Russia established a beachhead in some Australian networks, the Australian government stands at a crossroads.

On 16 December, it was announced that Catherine Raper would be the next Australian Ambassador to the Republic of Korea. If the tasks of an ambassador could be simplified into representation, negotiation, reporting, and the consular function – and sound advice offered in 900 words – I respectfully offer my views.

In Honduras, the humanitarian crisis unleashed by the pandemic worsened the one already in existence due to violence. Providing Honduran nationals with assistance and protection is critical in a country where the causes of violence are deepening every day.

Allan and Darren unpack the events of the recent storming of the US Capitol Building. Listen in to hear how this event marks the dramatic denouement of the deterioration of US democracy under the Trump administration, and to speculate about the future of US politics post-Trump.