Read progressive, liberal commentary on issues that impact Australians. Our daily articles focus on politics, public policy and world affairs.

John Menadue. John Menadue is the Founder and Editor in Chief of Pearls and Irritations. He was formerly Secretary of the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet under Gough Whitlam and Malcolm Fraser, Ambassador to Japan, Secretary of the Department of …

The world and its people are facing serious local and global challenges. Climate change, economic instability, limits to free speech, threats to independent media reporting, and increasing social inequality all signal the breakdown of democratic systems across the world.

A five-minute scroll. The Israeli onslaught continues with attacks on Jenin in the occupied West Bank overnight while government officials suggest the death toll is 61,000.

Jan 30, 2025 · Donald Trump and the MAGA gang point to the ‘massive mandate’ he obtained to justify any policy he may implement. There is, of course, a lot of debate about so-called mandates which seem to be less about some enduring principle and more about a flexible justification for what you want to do.

1 day ago · Many are drawing attention to the alarming state of things. Within Pearls and Irritations, David Spratt and Julian Cribb have recently provided clear and powerful summary statements of the trajectory we’re on, heading towards catastrophic global ecological and social breakdown. But they proceed as if the problems could be solved.

The world and its people are facing very serious local and global emergencies. Climate change, economic instability, limits to free speech, threats to independent media and increasing social inequality all signal the breakdown of democratic systems across the world.The genocide in Gaza and the war in Ukraine are ongoing.

Jan 29, 2025 · Read letters from our readers in response to our articles and current issues. We recognise the First Peoples of this nation and their ongoing connection to culture and country. We acknowledge First Nations Peoples as the Traditional Owners, Custodians and Lore Keepers of the world's oldest living ...

Pearls and Irritations is an Australian platform for the exchange of ideas from a progressive, liberal perspective, with an emphasis on peace and justice. John Menadue is the publisher, founder and Editor in Chief of Pearls and Irritations. He …

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