This law has been passed with bipartisan support. Professionals working in immigration detention centres are prevented from raising concerns about detention centre conditions and the physical and psychological treatment of asylum seekers or risk two years in jail. 

Despite the wall of secrecy to prevent public scrutiny, a growing chorus of voices is emerging against abuses and poor conditions and in condemnation of this law that is not about stopping the boats or protecting our borders but protecting politicians.

If we witness child abuse in Australia we are legally obliged to report it to child protection authorities. If we witness child abuse in detention centres, we can go to prison for attempting to advocate for them effectively. 

The disclosure of illegal, dangerous or unethical activities by governments or corporations is crucial for accountability.  It is important in exposing corruption, mismanagement and fraud. Putting people above the institution and speaking out can save lives, protect dignity and save resources.

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2015 - Volume 18 Number 1

Pope Francis’ new encyclical, Laudato Si’, subtitled ‘On Care for Our Common Home’ underscores its main message: that we share a small interconnected planet which can only become a reality in ‘relationship’ with all creation, people and the Creator.

This relationship calls all to a change or conversion of heart - both individual and communal. The Pope is making a challenging call to all people who seek justice and integrity of creation- not just people of faith.

There is a call to make a space that allows dialogue and engagement to occur. There is a call to inclusion. An exclusion derived from a politics dictated more by special interests and powerful elites has resulted in our most vulnerable sisters and brothers being marginalised.

Clearly here is a response to the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor.

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2014 - Volume 17 Number 1

Roma people have faced stigmatisation, discrimination and marginalisation for centuries in Europe - enduring wars, a lack of cultural understanding, prejudice and hardship. 

With over 500,000 killed by the Nazis, they remain forgotten victims of 20th century genocides, where as survivors they were refused assistance and compensation. 

And yet exclusion, prejudice and poverty have continued. Average life expectancy in Europe is 10 to 15 years less than for other Europeans. Roma communities occupy the lowest rung of the economic ladder of European residents with over 75% living below the poverty line.

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