Legal assault on Australian democracy
‘Parliaments at all levels have been increasingly willing to enact laws that impinge upon basic rights and freedoms essential to the operation of (Australian democracy)’, say Prof George Williams. 13 May 2015
AFP rules must cause a pause
AFP guidelines currently provide little restraint on police handing Australians over to potential death by execution overseas. Police should instead be forced to adopt and promote our human rights principles. 4 May 2015
We must hang on to essential freedoms
There’s a danger we could sleepwalk our way into losing our liberties, Michael Cornish says, as he examines some disturbing trends in how people are being treated. 10 April 2015
PM’s bail comment of dubious value
PM Tony Abbott is pushing the boundaries of his legal duties as a citizen in some recent comments on arrests. His bail comments in particular are of dubious worth. 25 Feb 2015
Journal warns health rights endangered
The Lancet medical journal warns the health rights of people and the lives of health workers are at risk as world tensions escalate, as reported by Human Rights Watch. 14 Feb 2015
MPs fail Anzac bravery test
As the 100th anniversary of Anzac Day approaches, MPs are over-protecting themselves with new armed guards inside the Houses of Parliament. What message does that send citizens? 10 Feb 2015
Hicks conviction illegal: US govt
It’s now official! The US government admits Guantanamo inmate of six years, David Hicks, was not legally convicted, and therefore was illegally held in an Australian jail also. 29 Jan 2015
Hicks officially innocent, Pentagon admits
The Pentagon has finally admitted David Hicks’ innocence: he was charged with a non-crime. Time for Howard, Ruddock and the government to pay compensation for their incompetence. 11 Jan 2015
Metadata bill holey unacceptable
National safeguards are needed around any new metadata bill, writes Prof George Williams. And AG George Brandis should explain the widespread data access he is able to grant. 5 Jan 2014
‘Now I am terrified…’
Exaggerated fears, excessive, expensive and stupid solutions…our pollies have not opened up the new year 2015 in a way that inspires confidence, says Hugh Selby. 3 Jan 2015