Security is the most important issue for states, both internally and externally. Those in power want to keep their grip on that power, free from threats from terrorists domestically. The threat from outside agencies internationally may be unlikely but they still beat the drums via spending on weapons to deter any opportunistic military actions. Governments within countries like Australia, the US and the UK make political mileage out of any threat of terrorism. A strong leader is seen as a vote winner and tough policies on border security are likewise electoral gold. Security vs human rights is an unfair fight from the outset.
Wishy Washy Human Rights
Human rights are wishy washy things, in the minds of many ordinary Australians. They are associated with things like political correctness, which annoy those who like to call a spade a spade or a refo a refo. The dominant white Anglo-Saxon male does not like to be criticised in any way. Pauline Hanson , a white Australian senator, has called for special protection for this sensitive bully in the Australian playground. There is too much questioning about the prominent and privileged place enjoyed by white Australians going on, in her view. Too much diversity being served up on the fish and chip shop menu in 2018..
Toothless Tigers Roaming Canberra
Australia is fond of signing treaties and conventions, under the auspices of the United Nations, to protect the human rights of children, women, migrants, refugees, disabled people, first peoples and gay people. Australia is not so quick to legislate these protections into their own domestic laws. This leaves a lot of toothless tigers roaming the corridors of power in places like Canberra. Australians, apparently, are not ready for a Human Rights Act federally, which would see our rights protected properly in law. Human rights will remain wishy washy things, especially when compared to security issues in this nation.
Security Rarely Neglected in Australia
Security is rarely neglected when it comers to actual powers of enforcement in Australia. The Australian state does not shy away from legislating invasive special powers for our many police forces and justice agencies. Security is valued as important and a priority in the 21C. Click here to see another online example of a service, where security is taken seriously in Sydney. Locking up houses is a good way to deter criminals of all persuasions. Security vs human rights in the 21C, no contest, I’m afraid.