Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) is a non-profit German political foundation committed to the advancement of public policy through education, research, and international cooperation. Since its foundation in 1925, FES has borne the name of Friedrich Ebert, the first democratically elected President of Germany (1919 – 1925). Through its core values – freedom, justice and solidarity – FES is firmly anchored in social democracy and in the trade union movement.
An FES representation commenced operations in Canberra in 2025 and covers activities in Australia and New Zealand. The key objectives are to build networks improving the exchange between Germany, Australia and New Zealand on questions concerning current geopolitical trends, on the issue of safeguarding democratic processes and institutions in challenging times, and around climate change and the future of work in an age of rapid economic change and a just and ecologically sound transformation.
In a rapidly changing global landscape, closer exchange among like-minded democracies is of the essence. Discussing current German political affairs at the Center for Strategic Studies in Wellington provided an opportunity.
Strengthening the resilience of democratic institutions and processes must go hand in hand with efforts to renew the franchise and to re-establish the purpose of democratic deliberation in changing circumstances.
FES’ international work depends crucially on a close exchange with our partner organizations. Following the opening of the FES office in Canberra in 2025, a visit from Berlin allowed us to deepen those conversations.
Australia has the potential to become a Renewable Energy Superpower, but the transition towards Net Zero will be easier when workers and affected communities can participate in shaping the change.
As the global rules-based order founded on international law comes under increasing strain, the need for international exchange grows.
Political discourse in democratic societies has changed substantially over the last decades.
The growing threat of climate change and the need to transition to sustainable energy production and use are evident, and efforts towards these objectives have become an integral part of industrial and trade policy settings the world over.
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Grüße nach Washington Keine Konfrontation, kein Kotau Australia’s vote echoes beyond its borders
Listen to James Curran, International Editor at the Australian Financial Review (AFR) and Professor of Modern History at Sydney University.
Australia in the Geopolitics of Three Theatres
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Dr. Andreas Radtke
Mr Rishik Maram
Australia & New Zealand Office
International Politics and Society (IPS) is a young magazine with a much older heritage.
Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung in Asia runs activities that support organizing for social justice, shaping an economy of tomorrow, and enhancing cooperation for freedom and security.
Our top priority has always been on the promotion of social justice, democracy, peace and security.
