Publisher's Synopsis
'Old coalitions, both at home and abroad, that sustained four decades of Cold War diplomatic practice have begun to crumble where they have not completely collapsed but the new ones that might provide a new rationale, let alone a new order, have yet to emerge.'
The end of the Cold War coincided with a period of intense activity in Australian foreign policy. In one arena after another the Labor government promoted 'middle power multilateralism' to fill the void left by the end of superpower confrontation.
This provocative collection of essays scrutinises the rhetoric and substance of Australian diplomacy. It presents a picture very different to the list of achievements proclaimed by Labor and inherited by the Coalition.
. Does Australia have a leading voice in international forums or is it simply one of many middling powers?
. Has it been a 'good international citizen' or a hyperactive meddler in international diplomacy?
. Is it a far-sighted influence for stability or a muddler making the best of short-term conditions?
Through the arguments offered in this book the reader is introduced to Australian foreign policy in a way that is sure
to provoke debate about present ambitions as well as past practices.
