Australia, as a nation state is currently in an interesting political position. For decades our strongest alliance has been with the US and its western allies. Now, as the country looks to increase its influence over the Asia-Pacific, tensions and debates, over which side of the see-saw ‘Middle Power’ Australia will fall, are on going. Will it be to an economically strong China or a historically ‘loyal’ United States. The political battle between these Superpowers for supremacy, will see a scrambling of the middle powers to make supportive statements and muscular actions either for or against. The rise of China has not only had a effect on the influence of its power in the International stage, but it has in turn effected both the small and
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It will also inquire into the source of Australia’s power and influence within the Asia-pacific and the global diplomatic community. How does this power impact upon our pursual of our national interests and values held buy the Australian …show more content…
Ultimately, one must conclude, that yes; Australia has a clear identity as ‘middle power’, and despite the constant leadership changes that Australia seems subject to, both governments tend to respect the ideals of middle power diplomacy. As Ravenhill (1998) concludes at the end of his report on middle power activism and the conscious choice that nation states make, it all follows a pattern, a cycle if you will. How active a middle power is determined by the government, weather influenced through loyalties to allies or by diplomatic incentives offered and traded, actions are made by deciding what to do, individually or as a multilateral community. In answer to the initial essay question as to if Australia’s middle power status is what allows it to ‘punch above its weight’, then the final conclusion would be that while its status allows it to engage in the international community, the expression to ‘punch above its weight’ becomes just a standard colloquialism. Australia is an egalitarian,democratic , highly educated and affluent state, which isn't at all polarised by any singular religion, race or representation. Its diverse makeup of different cultures and views is what aids it in becoming successful nation, and is part of its integral identity. These are qualities of cohesive cooperation, which Australia brings to the world
It will also inquire into the source of Australia’s power and influence within the Asia-pacific and the global diplomatic community. How does this power impact upon our pursual of our national interests and values held buy the Australian …show more content…
Ultimately, one must conclude, that yes; Australia has a clear identity as ‘middle power’, and despite the constant leadership changes that Australia seems subject to, both governments tend to respect the ideals of middle power diplomacy. As Ravenhill (1998) concludes at the end of his report on middle power activism and the conscious choice that nation states make, it all follows a pattern, a cycle if you will. How active a middle power is determined by the government, weather influenced through loyalties to allies or by diplomatic incentives offered and traded, actions are made by deciding what to do, individually or as a multilateral community. In answer to the initial essay question as to if Australia’s middle power status is what allows it to ‘punch above its weight’, then the final conclusion would be that while its status allows it to engage in the international community, the expression to ‘punch above its weight’ becomes just a standard colloquialism. Australia is an egalitarian,democratic , highly educated and affluent state, which isn't at all polarised by any singular religion, race or representation. Its diverse makeup of different cultures and views is what aids it in becoming successful nation, and is part of its integral identity. These are qualities of cohesive cooperation, which Australia brings to the world