Image credit: Former Premier of Victoria, Daniel Andrews. He sent the message while attending a huge military parade in China celebrating the 80th anniversary of China’s victory over Japan in World War II. The event, scheduled on a highly symbolic historical date, attracted a number of prominent international leaders and raised concerns and eyebrows amongst Australian political elites. His anticipated first-time participation has led to growing criticism from Australia’s federal opposition and raised questions about Australia’s wider diplomatic stand.
Andrews was sent an official invitation to Beijing to celebrate that commemorative act. He staged photo opportunities with elite killers, such as Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean dictator Kim Jong-Un. His attendance at that parade has generated a firestorm of criticism. Huge announcements This occurs as China-Australia relations and Australia’s rapidly deteriorating international standing are increasingly debated.
None more so than the federal opposition, who have been especially loud in their condemnation of Andrews’ presence. They contend that this sends a contradictory signal regarding Australia’s future approach to autocratic regimes. This is particularly alarming in light of Andrews’ strong rebuke of Putin and his illegal invasion of Ukraine. Andrews had been banned from entering Russia last year. Since then, he has unequivocally condemned the invasion of Ukraine and doubled down on his opposition to authoritarian governments.
Background on Daniel Andrews
Former Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews announced an early retirement from public life. He served in a unique era, marked by some of the greatest political and social turbulence. His tenure thus far has included steering the Department through the uncharted waters of the COVID-19 pandemic and strengthening commercial ties with major international allies like India.
Andrews’ engagement with China has been especially significant. He’s made four visits to strengthen bilateral trade links, with China now Australia’s number one trading partner. Acknowledging the importance of these relationships, Andrews stated, “I was invited to Beijing for the 80th anniversary of China’s victory over Japan in World War II. I’ve said for years that a constructive relationship with China—our largest trading partner—is in Australia’s national interest and hundreds of thousands of Australian jobs depend on it. That hasn’t changed.”
As he engages with leaders from various nations, including those with controversial human rights records, criticism has emerged regarding the potential ramifications for Australia’s diplomatic image.
Criticism from Opposition and Advocacy Groups
Even the Australian federal opposition has not shied away from attacking Andrews’ decision to attend the military parade. They claim it violates Australia’s values and weakens its voice on global human rights abuses. Leading opposition politicians have called for a more cautious approach to engagement with the international community. Importantly, they emphasize that Australian leaders need to be thoughtful about the symbolism of their public statements and actions.
“What’s important here, though, is that for every politician and myself included, we have to be mindful that what we say does matter and it does resonate,” – Hume
These worries have been fueled by advocacy organizations and human rights lawyers, who drew attention to Australia’s friendships with non-democratic countries. They claim that participation in these activities would weaken Australia’s resolve to world leadership in supporting ethical governance and furthering human rights.
Beyond political attacks, Andrews is under pressure over his administration’s expansion of non-citizen deportation powers. This has raised the ire of organizations advocating for migrant rights, making his political discourse position that much more precarious.
The Broader Implications
Andrews’ presence at the military parade opens the can of worms on the broader complexities involved in international diplomacy and Australia’s foreign relations strategy. As discussions about Australia’s role in global politics continue, many are questioning whether a balance can be struck between economic partnerships and ethical governance.
Andrew’s actions have rightly expressed these concerns, with particular focus on how they might damage Australia’s international reputation. Critics argue that engaging with leaders like Putin and Kim Jong-Un at such events sends mixed messages about Australia’s commitment to democracy and human rights.
“It was a chance to meet and engage with regional leaders—like former New Zealand prime ministers John Key and Helen Clark, Malaysian prime minister Anwar Ibrahim and of course Chinese President Xi. We also shared in an official photograph,” – Daniel Andrews
Facing this rising criticism, Andrews doubled down on his years of resistance to autocratic rule. He emphasized his condemnation of Putin’s actions while simultaneously advocating for a constructive relationship with China, suggesting that engagement should not equate to endorsement.
“And just so there’s no confusion—I have condemned Putin and his illegal war in Ukraine from day one. That’s why he banned me from Russia last year,” – Daniel Andrews
Economic necessity and moral responsibility are constantly at odds. It is this dynamic that underpins and influences many of the current debates about Australia’s place—and indeed, our role—in the world.
