Transparency Tide

04/04/2024

The controversial contract- unpacking Australia's deal with Elbit systems
The Australian government recently made headlines by awarding a lucrative contract exceeding $900 million to Elbit Systems, an Israeli arms manufacturing company. This move has stirred up a storm of controversy due to Elbit Systems' alleged connection to the tragic murder of Zomi Frankcom and six aid workers. Reports suggest that the drone responsible for the attack was provided by Elbit Systems.
While concerns have been raised about Elbit Systems' questionable human rights record and involvement in controversial incidents, the contract between the Australian government and the company remains unscathed. Critics have targeted the Defence Department, accusing it of a lack of transparency in evaluating Elbit Systems' background and the potential ramifications of its associations.
The government's response to the mounting pressure has been met with scepticism and backlash. On one hand, officials have expressed concerns regarding the reported killings. On the other hand, they continue to stand by their support for Elbit Systems, sparking a fierce debate over priorities and moral obligations.
Amidst the commotion, media outlets like Crikey have endeavoured to uncover more details about the situation. However, their efforts have been met with limited success, further underscoring the complex ethical, political, and financial considerations in the Australian government's dealings with Elbit Systems.
Image: Elbit System website

23/02/2024

Are politicians hijacking for photo ops while Gaza suffers? 🤔💔Australian Muslims face a dilemma: support political agendas or stand up for ethical values & justice for Palestine. 🚫🎭 Is it time to say NO to politicised iftars? -Free-Ramadan ✊🕌"

15/02/2024

Global Recruitment Riddle: Allied Nations Face Shared Military Enlistment Struggles
From the US 🇺🇸 to Germany 🇩🇪, this trend is more than a local issue - it's a global concern. Why are armies short on soldiers?
Military recruitment is proving to be a formidable challenge for Australia and several of its allies. This concern hints at a broader pattern rather than an issue confined to a single nation. As Bernard Keane of Crikey pointed out, military forces from the United States to Germany are grappling with recruitment shortfalls and have been for the past decade. This suggests that the problem transcends local politics and must be examined through a global lens.
In the United States, the shadow of the Iraq War and a competitive job market have driven the armed services to repeatedly lower entrance requirements to fill its ranks—still falling short of recruitment targets. The UK’s recruitment woes date back to 2010, with similar stories unfolding in Canada and France. Even the historically efficient German military machine is no stranger to this phenomenon.
The manifestation of this issue across various countries points to systemic factors influencing the enlistment rates. Evolving societal views on military service, demographic changes, technological advancements that demand new skill sets, and the availability of alternative career paths in a globalised economy could all be contributing factors.
Keane's exploration of the Australian context, referencing the ADF’s admission of being under strength, coloured by domestic political debates, reflects a larger conversation about how nations approach military service in the 21st century. The focus on Australia's political narrative, with accusations of the government "running Defence down", is mirrored in different forms across these nations, where military recruitment often becomes tangled in the web of cultural and political discussions.
As military forces around the world face challenges in attracting recruits, it's clear that simply pointing fingers at government policies or societal attitudes towards "wokeness" is an oversimplification. Instead, we must acknowledge the multifaceted and international nature of the challenge—a reality of our changing world where defence needs and the labour market are increasingly complex and interconnected.

Photos: Image Generation

14/02/2024

Equitable Privacy Protection: A Pro-Palestinian Call for Consistency in Anti-Doxxing Legislation

Hypocrisy and power on display from Labor and the media
'Anti-doxxing' laws are only the latest example of a reflex to silence pro-Palestinian voices and criticism of Israel.

Recent moves by the Australian government to introduce anti-doxxing laws, spurred by the exposure of a mainly Jewish WhatsApp group, have raised important questions about privacy in political discourse. While championing the protection of this group's privacy is a commendable step, a pro-Palestinian perspective might reveal a troubling discrepancy in applying such protective measures.
For advocates of Palestinian rights, the difference in response to privacy violations, depending on the political association, is stark. Pro-Palestinian activists, who often face significant opposition and hostility, may feel that their privacy and safety concerns are not met with equal urgency. When the tables are turned, they notice a lack of swift legislative action or media advocacy to shield their personal information from being weaponised.
The selective shielding of pro-Israel sentiment over pro-Palestinian advocacy suggests an imbalanced wielding of power influenced by political alliances. This, in turn, challenges the fundamental principles of free speech and equal rights. When doxxing—a grave violation against individuals' safety and freedom—receives uneven condemnation, it implies a bias that undermines the credibility of legislative protections.
A call for universal and indiscriminate anti-doxxing laws emphasises the need for unbiased privacy standards that protect all individuals, regardless of their political views. Journalistic integrity and political impartiality demand a balance that does not presently seem to exist. Thus, proponents of Palestinian rights urge for consistent and fair application of protective measures. They contend that only through equitable enforcement can trust in governmental and media institutions be restored and the rights of all individuals be genuinely safeguarded in the increasingly contentious and divided political landscape.
Adapted from Bernard Keane's piece published on Crickey, 13 February 2024.
Photo source: Crickey.
Note:
Anti-doxxing refers to efforts and laws designed to prevent the practice of "doxxing," which is the act of publicly revealing private personal information about an individual without their consent, often with malicious intent. This information can include their real name, home address, workplace, phone number, or other identifying information. The term "doxxing" is derived from the word "documents" or "dox," shorthand for "dropping documents" on someone.
The anti-doxxing measures aim to protect individuals' privacy and reduce the potential for online harassment, threats, and other forms of abuse that can arise from the unwanted release of personal information. This can involve legislation making it illegal to distribute personal data in this way or providing a means for victims to seek recourse. It can also involve platform-specific rules — for example, community guidelines on social media sites that prohibit the sharing of another individual's private information without permission.

06/02/2024

Australian Media's Instagram Posts on Gaza War Display Anti-Palestinian Bias, Research Finds

A recent research study conducted by Monash University in collaboration with the Islamophobia Register Australia has shed light on the potential bias in Australian media coverage of the Israel war on Gaza. The study analysed the Instagram posts of six of Australia's most followed news outlets and revealed a pro-Israel bias, leading to concerns about its real-world consequences.
Media Bias and its Influence:
The research, conducted by Susan Carland of Discovery Early Career Researcher Award (DECRA), fellow Monash University, highlights the impact of news media on shaping public attitudes and behaviour. It underscores how the media's portrayal of conflicts, such as the Israel-Gaza war, can have far-reaching consequences, including the induction of Islamophobia and historical biases against Palestinians and Muslims.
Findings of the Study:
The study examined language and grammatical choices used in the Instagram posts of the selected news outlets. It revealed that reports of antisemitism in Australia increased by 738% and Islamophobia by 1,300% during the Israel-Gaza war.
In terms of humanising coverage, only one of the six news media accounts passed the "humanising test" for Palestinians in their Instagram posts, while five of the six accounts passed for Israelis.
The study also examined the use of voice in reporting. Five of the six accounts, namely ABC News, 9News, The Australian, The Daily Telegraph, and News.com.au, showed bias against Palestinians in their use of the active, middle, and passive voices. Furthermore, the active voice was more commonly used when discussing attacks against Israel, while the passive voice was used more frequently when describing events in Gaza.
Consequences and International Context:
The research emphasises the importance of unbiased reporting, as biased media coverage can perpetuate the dehumanisation of Palestinian war victims. It warns that when the media is the primary source of information, it shapes the way people view and treat each other in real life.
Similar biases in media coverage have been identified internationally. Analysis of media in Canada and the United States found comparable imbalances in language and biased treatment against Palestinians.
Conclusion:
The study's findings raise concerns about the potential dehumanisation of Palestinian war victims in the Australian media and its wider implications for society. It calls for holding media outlets accountable for their reporting and promoting balanced coverage to foster a more accurate understanding of conflicts. By doing so, the real-world consequences of media bias can be mitigated.
Adapted from the Conversaition, Australian media’s Instagram posts on Gaza war have an anti-Palestine bias. That has real-world consequences, published on 2 February 2024.

06/02/2024

Australian Undercover Operation Exploits Autistic Teen's Fixation on Islamic State

In a shocking case that has caused widespread outrage, Australian counter-terrorism police are facing scrutiny for their handling of an undercover operation involving a 13-year-old autistic boy with a fixation on Islamic State (ISIS). The boy, referred to as Thomas Carrick for privacy reasons, was encouraged by undercover officers to pursue his fixation, ultimately leading to his arrest on terrorism charges.
Thomas, a recipient of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) with an IQ of 71, had been reported to the police by both his parents and the Department of Health and Human Services in Victoria due to his fascination with ISIS. Concerned about his access to extremist material online and his threats towards other students, his parents sought assistance from the authorities.
However, instead of providing the support and intervention the family had hoped for, the undercover operation took a troubling turn. An undercover officer "fed" Thomas's fixation and undermined his progress in rehabilitation, according to a magistrate from the Victorian children's court who reviewed the case. The officer's actions were found to have fallen "profoundly short" of the expected standards of law enforcement officers.
The court also found that the Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT), which includes the Australian Federal Police, Victoria Police, and ASIO members, deliberately delayed charging Thomas until after he turned 14, making it more challenging for him to claim doli incapax, which holds that children are not fully responsible for their actions.
Moreover, the JCTT's actions not only involved encouraging Thomas's fixation but also conducting an invasive search of his property without a lawful excuse. These actions were considered inappropriate and an abuse of power by the magistrate.
The court's decision to grant a permanent stay on the charges has raised serious concerns about the conduct of the authorities involved. The magistrate expressed disappointment in the law enforcement officers for using the guise of a rehabilitation service to further their own objectives, including fostering racial hatred and distrust of the police.
The undercover operation unfolded through online communication with Thomas, in which a covert operative assumed two different personas. Thomas's interactions with the operative spanned over several months, during which he was encouraged to make a bomb or harm a member of the Australian Federal Police.
The court heard that Thomas, who was on the autism spectrum and living a fantasy life online, was naive and susceptible to being led astray. The covert operative exploited his vulnerabilities, leading to a situation where his rehabilitation efforts were severely compromised.
Criticism has been directed towards the Australian Federal Police for their failure to take appropriate action in response to the initial complaints made by Thomas's parents and the Department of Health and Human Services. The court found no evidence of any action taken by the authorities in response to these concerns, raising questions about their commitment to safeguarding vulnerable individuals.
This case has sparked a broader conversation about the treatment of individuals with disabilities and the responsibility of law enforcement officers to act ethically and protect those under their care. The fallout from this investigation is likely to have a lasting impact on public trust and confidence in the authorities involved.
As the dust settles on this troubling case, there is a pressing need for a thorough examination of police procedures and protocols when dealing with vulnerable individuals. The justice system must ensure that lessons are learned, and necessary safeguards are put in place to prevent similar incidents in the future. The welfare and rights of all individuals, regardless of their cognitive abilities, must always be prioritised.

A senate hearing has been told undercover officers from the Australian Federal Police 'encouraged' an austistic 13-year-old's fixation with Islamic State. Th...

31/01/2024

Unmasking Double Standards: The Ethical Violence Debate in Western Civilizations

In the context of discussing ethical violence and double standards, it is worth considering potential critiques of Western civilisations. It is important to note that Western civilisations are not monolithic and encompass a wide range of perspectives, ideologies, and historical contexts. However, there have been instances where double standards within Western societies can be observed.
One critique often levelled against Western civilisations is the inconsistency in applying ethical standards. For example, Western countries have historically engaged in colonialism and imperialism, often employing violence to subjugate and exploit other nations and peoples. This raises questions about the ethical justification for such actions and the double standards employed in determining which forms of violence are deemed acceptable or necessary.
Moreover, Western powers have sometimes exhibited double standards in their response to conflicts and acts of violence. There can be a tendency to prioritise certain conflicts or human rights violations over others based on geopolitical interests or alliances. This selective focus can create an impression of inconsistency and bias when it comes to addressing violence and promoting ethical standards.
Another aspect worth considering is the exportation of violence and arms by Western powers. Many Western countries are major arms exporters, contributing to ongoing conflicts in various parts of the world. This raises questions about the ethical responsibility of Western governments in perpetuating violence through the arms trade while simultaneously advocating for peace and human rights.
Additionally, some argue that Western societies have often failed to adequately address systemic forms of violence and oppression within their own societies. This includes issues such as racial inequality, socioeconomic disparities, and systemic discrimination that can lead to violence and injustice. Critics argue that the presence of such internal double standards undermines Western societies' moral authority in addressing violence on a global scale.
It is essential to note that these critiques do not dismiss the positive aspects and achievements of Western civilisations but rather highlight areas where there may be inconsistencies and double standards. Engaging in self-reflection and addressing these inconsistencies is important for fostering a more ethical and just society.
Critiques of Western civilisations for their support of Is.ra.el in its genocide crimes in G.a.z.a can revolve around several key issues. One critique is that Western nations, particularly the United States, have consistently provided political, economic, and military support to Is.ra.el despite Is.ra.el's controversial actions and disregard for international law, resolutions and human rights.
One aspect of this criticism is the perception of a double standard in Western foreign policy. Western countries often champion the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, yet their support for Is.ra.el's atrocities in the Wes.t.Ban.k and G.a.z.a can be seen as inconsistent with these values. The United Nations and numerous international bodies have declared these actions as illegal under international law, calling for an end to the occupation and settlement expansion. Critics argue that Western support for Is.ra.el undermines their credibility as defenders of human rights and undermines efforts to achieve a just and lasting resolution to the Is.ra.eli occupation of P.a.les.ti.nes.
Another critique stems from the unequal power dynamics between Is.ra.el and the P.a.les.ti.nes. Critics argue that Western nations' unwavering support for Is.ra.el perpetuates an imbalance of power, making it difficult for the P.a.les.ti.nes to survive. This support includes military aid, which some critics contend enables Is.ra.el to maintain its occupation and continue its disproportionate use of force against the P.a.les.ti.nes.
Moreover, Western nations' consistent shielding of Is.ra.el from critical international resolutions and accountability measures has also been criticised. Despite numerous UN resolutions condemning Is.ra.eli actions, Western nations, particularly the United States, have often used their veto power to prevent these resolutions from having any substantial impact. This selective enforcement of international law is seen by critics as a double standard that undermines the credibility and effectiveness of international institutions.
Photo: The Guardian

31/01/2024

Football, Capitalism, and the Battle of Legends: Messi vs. Ronaldo

The much-awaited showdown between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo highlights the broader influence of capitalism on football. While the sport has traditionally symbolised passion and unity, the infiltration of capitalism has raised concerns about its fundamental values.
As global icons, Messi and Ronaldo have not only excelled on the field but have also become marketing symbols. Their images dominate billboards, endorsement deals pour in, and their clubs benefit from lucrative jersey sales and sponsorships.
Capitalism has brought wealth to players and turned football clubs into profit-driven corporate entities. The industry has become a lucrative market, attracting substantial investments, sponsors, and billion-dollar television deals.
However, this monetisation has come with consequences. Rising ticket prices make it difficult for passionate fans to attend matches and experience the thrill of supporting their teams firsthand. Smaller clubs also struggle to compete with the financial dominance of elite clubs.
Moreover, the pursuit of profit often disregards player well-being and the integrity of the game. Commercial pressures can adversely affect athletes' mental and physical health, as they juggle demanding schedules, endorsements, media commitments, and contractual obligations.
The Messi vs. Ronaldo rivalry has not escaped these market forces. Their high-profile transfers, endorsements, and astronomical salaries embody the trends seen in modern football. Some critics argue that the prioritization of individual marketability eclipses the core values of teamwork, camaraderie, and passion.
However, it is crucial to remember that football still possesses the power to unite communities, inspire generations, and bring diverse people together. The sheer magic of watching Messi glide past defenders or Ronaldo score sensational goals is a testament to the sport's enduring appeal.
As football navigates the capitalist landscape, striking a balance between financial success and preserving the game's essence becomes paramount. Safeguarding its values while accommodating commercial interests ensures long-term sustainability and continued engagement from fans worldwide.
Let the Messi vs. Ronaldo spectacle serve as a reminder of capitalism's profound impact on football. It underscores the importance of preserving the spirit and integrity of the game amidst the pursuit of success and financial gains.

31/01/2024

Drone Strike on American Troops in Jordan Exposes Iran's Objective to Drive US Forces Out of the Middle East

A recent drone strike targeting American troops at a military base in Jordan has revealed the true objective of Iranian-backed militias operating in the Middle East. The attack, claimed by the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, highlights a concerted effort to escalate the conflict and expand Iran's influence in the region by undermining the presence of US forces.
The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella organisation comprising various Iran-backed militias, has been intensifying its attacks on American military bases in response to US support for Israel during the Israel-Hamas conflict. By carrying out these attacks under the banner of Islamic Resistance, these groups aim to present a unified front against US interests and policies, showcasing their collective strength and strategic alignment across the region.
At the core of Iran's support for these militias is a long-standing objective to drive US forces out of the Middle East entirely. By sustaining and funding these proxy groups, Iran maintains a degree of plausible deniability, making direct attribution of attacks challenging.
The drone strike on American troops in Jordan serves as a clear indication of Iran's involvement and support, although Tehran has officially denied any connection. Iran's strategy involves providing financial assistance, weapons, and training to these militias, granting them a certain level of autonomy in their operations.
The implications of such attacks and Iran's objectives extend far beyond the immediate threat to American troops. They risk widening the conflict in the Middle East and escalating tensions between Iran and the United States. The response from the Biden administration becomes crucial as it navigates the complexities of the situation, balancing the need for a robust response with the potential geopolitical consequences.
The strike heightens concerns about regional stability and the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Any US retaliation must carefully consider the risks of further escalation and the potential impact on diplomatic efforts in the region.
As the situation unfolds, the world watches with apprehension, emphasising the importance of measured responses that prioritise stability and discourage further aggression. The coming days will prove critical in determining the course of action and its long-term implications for the Middle East and beyond.

Adapted from Sara Harmouch's article “Drone strike on American troops risks widening Middle East conflict – and drawing in Iran-US tensions” published on the Conversation January 30, 2024
Photo: Three US troops killed in drone attack, Sky News

31/01/2024

Parking Apps Under Scrutiny: Privacy, Value for Money, and Accessibility Concerns Raised

In the realm of parking apps, there's growing frustration among the public in Australia regarding privacy, value for money, and accessibility issues.
Privacy concerns have sparked outrage and shaken public trust in parking apps. The recent data breach that affected European users of EasyPark, exposing sensitive personal information, has significantly impacted the community. Parking app providers must prioritise robust data protection measures to safeguard user privacy, leaving no room for compromise. Openness and transparency should be the norm, ensuring encrypted data storage and thorough risk assessments.
Questions have also arisen about the value for money provided by parking apps, leading the public to wonder if their convenience justifies their often high fees. There are worries about rushed procurement processes and questionable assessments of "value for money" conducted by public authorities when dealing with parking app developers. This casts doubt on the fairness of these agreements and calls for greater transparency in evaluating the actual benefits derived from these apps. Councils and campuses must be accountable for allocating public funds wisely, prioritising the development of essential public amenities and services rather than excessively benefiting app providers.
Accessibility and inclusivity concerns are also gaining prominence in this debate. The widespread adoption of parking apps has left behind individuals who lack access to smartphones or face challenges with digital literacy. This exclusionary trend raises serious questions about equal access to parking facilities. To ensure fairness, alternative payment methods must be readily available, catering to those who cannot rely on app-based services alone. Additionally, parking app developers must take immediate steps to enhance accessibility features, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can navigate and use these apps effortlessly.
As public outcry increases, addressing these pressing concerns surrounding parking apps is crucial. Prioritising user privacy, conducting thorough financial assessments, and ensuring inclusivity should be at the forefront of tackling these issues. Collaboration between public authorities, parking app providers, and the community will pave the way for a parking landscape that respects users' rights, delivers genuine value for money, and guarantees accessibility for all Australians.
Adapted from Julia Powles’s article "Parking apps are sweeping Australia’s cities. Here’s what you may not know about them", published on The Conversation, 31 Jan 2024.
Photo: EasyPark is one of several parking app providers in Australia. The Conversation

30/01/2024

From Parliament to Defence Profits: Morrison's Strategic Shift into AUKUS-Fuelled Ventures

Scott Morrison, once at the helm of Australia's political landscape, has swiftly sailed into a lucrative role within the defence sector, raising serious concerns about the ethical implications of such a post-political career pivot. As a freshly appointed strategic adviser to DYNE Maritime, the former Prime Minister is taking full advantage of the AUKUS pact—a security arrangement he himself helped to forge alongside international counterparts. This move sees Morrison poised to potentially capitalise on sensitive information to which he once had privileged access (The Australian Financial Review).
Morrison's dive into defence doesn't halt there; his subsequent snagging of a vice-chair position at American Global Strategies, under the stewardship of ex-US National Security Adviser Robert O'Brien, only adds fuel to the fire of public scepticism (The Australian).
This unsavoury trend is not Morrison’s journey alone. It appears to be a well-trodden path, with figures like former ministers Arthur Sinodinos and Joel Fitzgibbon aligning themselves with AUKUS-related business ventures, and Christopher Pyne coming under the scanner for his swift segue into defence consulting upon his departure from Parliament (Crikey).
As AUKUS serves to tighten the tri-nation defence alliance, there's a burgeoning shadow of doubt over the integrity of politicians who seemingly transition with disconcerting ease from public service to private enrichment. The blurred boundaries between serving the national interest and self-interest are becoming increasingly visible, prompting public outcry for greater transparency and regulation to guard against potential conflicts of interest.

Photo: Then Prime Minister Scott Morrison (second from right) is pictured in Hawaii on a controversial holiday he took during a bushfire crisis (Daily Mail)

29/01/2024

Australians at War: Unveiling the Untold Stories of Dual Citizens in Gaza's Tumultuous Battlefield

A report on the involvement of Australian-Israeli dual citizens in the longstanding Israeli war on Gaza, exploring the legal ramifications, the poignant personal narratives of Palestinian/Australians, and the broader ethical issues at play. This intricate tale underscores the urgency for government oversight, transparent policies, and individual awareness amidst allegations of war violations.