Governments need to focus their counter-terrorism strategies on strengthening community relations and trust. . ..

Want a radical counter‑terrorism strategy? Let’s strengthen trust

Despite significant budgetary constraints, the government announced in Tuesday’s budget that a further A$450 million in counter-terrorism strategies. But something significant is lacking in its approach.
Security agencies seeking to understand the radicalisation of young men such as Jake Bilardi might find answers in popular culture. AAP Image/Twitter

Apocalyptic erotica now: the allure of Islamic State online

Western governments not only misread Islamic State, they have a very limited understanding of the Internet and its role within the private spaces, bedrooms and imaginaries of teenagers.
Australia’s mining companies have intensified their exploration of resources in Indonesia, much to the detriment of local communities. Jeff Lewis

The Australian assault on Indonesia’s riches

Not satisfied with the abundance of our own natural resources, Australian mining companies have spread their interests across the region. Many of these ventures— Ok Tedi, Bougainville, Freeport-Grasberg…
Abu Bakar Bashir is driven away from court after being sentenced to 15 years in jail. AAP

Abu Bakar Bashir’s sentence: why only 15 years?

Radical Indonesian Muslim cleric Abu Bakar Bashir was yesterday sentenced to 15 years in jail for supporting and sponsoring terrorism. RMIT Associate Professor Jeff Lewis, an Indonesia expert, tells The…

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