In a quarter marked by escalating global conflict, political uncertainty and social division, researchers from the Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation were at the forefront of public discourse. From the Israel-Iran-US tensions and the Russia-Ukraine war to Australia’s federal election and rising youth crime, Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation experts provided timely, evidence-based commentary that helped the public and policymakers navigate a rapidly changing world.
Navigating Middle East Tensions
As the Israel-Iran conflict intensified following Israel’s strikes on Iranian military infrastructure and retaliatory cyberattacks, Professor Shahram Akbarzadeh emerged as a leading voice in the media. He provided in-depth analysis across ABC News, BBC, Al Jazeera, SBS, CNBC and The Australian, helping audiences understand the geopolitical stakes and humanitarian consequences of the conflict. His commentary also addressed the broader implications of US involvement in the region, particularly in the context of renewed nuclear negotiations and shifting alliances.
Professor Greg Barton contributed to national conversations on the radicalisation of youth in Australia, linking domestic security concerns to global ideological movements. He also offered expert insights on the Russia-Ukraine war, including the implications of Ukraine’s counteroffensive and NATO’s evolving role, appearing on Sky News, ABC Melbourne and MIX 104.9.
Informing the Federal Election
As Australians headed to the polls, ADI researchers played a key role in unpacking the political narratives shaping the 2025 federal election. Associate Professor Amy Nethery’s analysis of post-political careers and the dynamics in key electorates such as Goldstein was featured in The Australian Financial Review, The Conversation and syndicated election coverage.
Professor Matthew Ricketson explored how media platforms and social media influenced voter perceptions, contributing articles to The Conversation and appearing on ABC News Radio and The West Live podcast. His work highlighted the growing tension between public interest journalism and political influence in the digital age.
Reframing ANZAC Day
On ANZAC Day, Dr Mia Martin Hobbs challenged dominant narratives with her article on Australia’s anti-war veterans, published in The Conversation and adapted for the Geelong Advertiser. Her presentation, broadcast on ABC Radio National’s Big Ideas, invited Australians to reflect on the diversity of wartime experiences and the silencing of dissenting voices. Dr Carolyn Holbrook added historical context, speaking to Dubbo Photo News about how ANZAC Day commemorations have evolved over time.
Addressing Social Challenges at Home
Closer to home, Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation researchers tackled urgent social issues. Dr Abraham Kuol spoke to The Age about the rise of performative youth crime, where social media is used to amplify criminal behaviour for notoriety. Dr Imogen Richards warned of the political motivations behind far-right protests, including a Neo-Nazi demonstration in South Melbourne, in an interview with ABC PM, highlighting the risks of extremist mobilisation in Australia.
Media, Democracy and the Public Sphere
In the media and communications space, Professor Kristy Hess and Professor Matthew Ricketson led national conversations on the future of regional journalism and public broadcasting. Professor Hess appeared on ABC Shepparton Breakfast and contributed to 360info, with her work syndicated by Cosmos Magazine, Tasmanian Times and others. Professor Ricketson spoke with The Guardian about editorial independence at the ABC and featured across multiple ABC programs, reinforcing the importance of media integrity in a healthy democracy.
Global Reach Through The Conversation
Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation researchers continued to amplify their impact through The Conversation. Dr Ali Mamouri’s article, Who are Iran’s allies?, became the platform’s most-read piece in mid-June, with over 306,000 views and syndication across Radio New Zealand, NDTV, Rappler and Apple News. His work provided critical context for understanding Iran’s regional alliances amid escalating tensions, demonstrating the global appetite for accessible, expert-driven analysis.
Research with Real-World Impact
From war zones to election booths, Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation researchers are helping shape how Australians – and the world – understand the forces reshaping our societies. As global challenges grow more complex, Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation remains committed to producing knowledge that not only explains the world, but helps improve it.
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