OPINION: ANNE WEBSTER
THE Russian invasion in the past few days reminds us that democracy is fragile. These are worrying events. The mistake we could make is to consider that Ukraine as geographically so far removed and therefore unrelated to Australia. But in this globalised world, if one democracy is threatened, effectively all are at risk.
The timing of this invasion shows opportunism by President Vladimir Putin. COVID-19 has rendered the world weaker, economically, socially – and arguably, politically. Social disruption from COVID protests reactions and protests, has resulted in divided nations. Western countries such as the US have become vulnerable as a result of their social and political divisions.
While I am cautious about linking our own geopolitical circumstances in the Asia Pacific with the events in Europe, there is evidence that China is taking a different position than the Western alliances.
Commentary in the media suggests that China is observing how the West responds to Russia’s invasion with vested interest. Arguably if the West does not unite and stand up, what message will it send to China in the context of its current aggression to Asia Pacific nations, including Australia?
We must stand firm and be vigilant to any power that pushes against our sovereignty. If Russia is not stymied and stopped, it has eyes on other nations. The behaviour of bullies should not be tolerated, and the West is right to stand up to President Putin.
Churchill once said, ‘Democracy is the worst form of government, except for all the rest’. What we enjoy in Australia, and what the rest of the free world experiences in democratic society, is not only a privilege, but a world order that came at a high price.
We have fought for freedom so that we can enjoy freedom.
For many of us in Australia, we have not experienced any other form of government than a democratic free society. But if this week has reminded us of anything, it is that peace can be fragile, and it is not to be taken for granted.
