Australia took center stage at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) this week, showcasing its commitment to global issues and the promotion of new social media regulations. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed world leaders, highlighting Australia’s goals, including a renewed bid for a seat on the UN Security Council in 2029-30 and the country’s ambitious emissions targets. Emma Mason, a mother and tireless advocate for change, gave a powerful testimony at the event. She publicly advocated after her daughter’s horrific suicide due to cyberbullying.
In his speech, Albanese highlighted the role that the United Nations plays in tackling the biggest challenges facing the world. He stated, “The United Nations is much more than an arena for the great powers to veto each other’s ambitions.” His speech made clear Australia’s intention to play a greater role in the world. More importantly, they signaled to the world the country’s intention—and desire—to work alongside other countries.
Australia’s Push for Social Media Regulation
Australia organized an interesting side event during the assembly. Its aim, we learned, was to advance the new social media age limit idea to foreign leaders and delegates. The bill moves to address the issue of online bullying, a serious issue brought to light by the tragic story of Emma Mason. Mason’s daughter, Tilly, ended her life when she was just 15 years old after being subjected to vicious and ongoing cyberbullying.
Mason’s deeply personal speech about family, freedom and connection, struck a deep chord with attendees and brought her a standing ovation. “Keep my Tilly, and all the children who never came home, close in your hearts,” she asked. Please do your part to shift the narrative in our society for Tilly’s memory and fight against online harassment.
National leaders from Greece, Malta, Fiji, and Tonga were present for Mason’s address. Their presence underscored the global nature of the issue and the urgent need for a collective response. Prime Minister Albanese mustered a small army of Ministers to argue Australia’s case on this important issue. Combined, they underscored the administration’s commitment to addressing the effect of social media on mental health.
Pursuing a Seat on the UN Security Council
Australia’s renewed bid for a two-year term on the UN Security Council in 2029-30 was a significant theme in Albanese’s address. Then Australia’s Foreign Minister, Julie Bishop, declared the campaign in 2015. Now, with Albanese at the helm, Australia is committed to using its experience and relationships to win this seat.
Albanese argued that the United Nations has a higher calling. It is more than just an arena for the great powers to use to veto each other’s ambitions. His remarks speak to a bigger idea about the role Australia should play in the future of international governance and conflict resolution. The Prime Minister stated that building Australia’s military and diplomatic muscle will be key in bringing stability to the volatile Indo-Pacific region.
This will be Australia’s first seat on the UN Security Council since 2013-14. The current bid further highlights a necessary strategic pivot to increased international collaboration as the world faces growing geopolitical divisions.
Addressing Global Crises and Emissions Goals
Throughout his speech, Albanese maintained a focus on pressing international issues such as the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Curiously lacking from his speech though, was any reference to Israel, or the UN inquiry’s recent finding of genocide against the country. In doing so, he doubled down on Australia’s support for Ukraine in its war against Russia.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine, surely had ominous thoughts about this worldwide war with influence. He stated, “Stopping Putin now is cheaper than trying to protect every port and every ship from terrorists with sea drones.” In his address, Zelenskyy made clear that time is of the essence, especially in the face of threats from Russia.
Aside from security issues, Albanese doubled down on Australia’s commitment to curb emissions and help develop world-leading climate goals. His message was timely, as leaders the world over are waking up to the idea that environmental sustainability and international security are deeply connected.
China’s President Xi Jinping participated in discussions via video call during the UN Climate Summit, while Albanese spoke in person, showcasing Australia’s active participation in global dialogues. The contrast between Albanese’s measured approach and former US President Donald Trump’s notably different tone further illustrated varying international perspectives on these critical issues.
