While we might like to think that aviation soars above it all, recent examples show how aviation can be politicised. Aviation has been transformed into a new form of soft power.

As the Syrian civil war is raging on into its seventh year, the power of jihadist groups is declining. As each of these terrorist groups face existential irrelevancy, the possibility of them joining forces to make one last stand should not be ignored.

Russia and NATO control the overwhelming majority of the world’s nuclear weapons and while the likelihood of an all-out war is low, the risk cannot be ignored. Russia and NATO are never going to see eye-to-eye on some issues, but tensions cannot be allowed to escalate.

The results of Iraq’s parliamentary election have surprised many observers, with a coalition dominated by Muqtada al-Sadr securing the largest number of seats. Understanding the role the Sadrists are likely to play in a new Iraqi government requires a grasp of their evolution.

With the rapid modernisation of China's nuclear forces comes the potential for a change in China's nuclear strategy. What are the implications for future US-China relations and regional stability?

The dismantling of North Korea’s Punggye-ri nuclear testing site started this week. What are the implications of the North Korean nuclear issue for Australian national security?

While on the surface the United Arab Emirates is a well-behaved “little brother” to Saudi Arabia, its recent actions show that the UAE is slowly but surely positioning itself to become a formidable regional power.

Last week Japan passed legislation aimed at encouraging female participation in politics. While it does not prescribe specific targets and penalties, the bill can provide a foundation for necessary change.

When it comes to LGBTI rights in Africa, arguing against Western interventionism is a front for advocating the maintenance of discriminatory anti-LGBTI legislation. Ahead of the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, it should be argued that it is homophobia rather than homosexuality that is un-African.

The 12 May elections in Timor-Leste may herald greater stability under a majority government, allowing the focus to shift to national development. With one of the youngest populations in the Asia-Pacific, Timor-Leste must prioritise investment in its youth.