Royal United Services Institutes  in Canada Links

On 8 February, Professor John Blaxland, Head of the Strategic and Defence Studies Centre, presented to more than 100 USI of the ACT members and guests on the new Department of Home Affairs. In an entertaining but thought provoking address, Blaxland set out a range of concerns about the new arrangements. He described the evolution of the Australian Intelligence Community since Federation, arguing that changes had resulted incrementally - and sensibly - over time in response to periodic reviews and Royal Commissions. He contrasted this with the decision to form the Department of Home Affairs, the imperative for which remains unsatisfactorily explained.  You can find the slides for the presentation - including perceived concerns and opportunities - in the ACT section of the website.

Members may be interested in Ian Dudgeon's latest piece on Iran, focussing on recent demonstrations.  (Link courtesy of ASPI)

Prolific USI of the ACT member Ian Dudgeon has recently written an analysis of prospects for the new US strategy in Afghanistan.  With thanks to the Australian Institute of International Affairs, you can read the article here.

USI of the ACT member Ian Dudgeon has written a short analysis of the outcomes of Iran's recent presidential elections.  Courtesy of ASPI, you can read the paper here.

Members may be interested to read two recent pieces by Ian Dudgeon on Iran and Afghanistan, published by ASPI and AIIA respectively.  

USI of the ACT member, Ian Dudgeon, publishes regularly on issues of national security and defence, with a particular focus on South Asia.

In November last year, Ian wrote a piece for the Lowy Institute highlighting the risk to Pakistan's Prime Minister, Nawaz Sharif, arising from his direction to the Inter-Services Intelligence group that it crack down on international terrorist groups and their support networks.

In December, Ian wrote for the Australian Institute of International Affairs on possible future developments in Afghanistan, including prospects for reconciliation between the Afghan government and the Taliban.

We are delighted to have such a prolific commentator as a member, and will continue to draw his articles to your attention.