We’ve heard how important and useful it is to grapple with complex problems in collaboration with international governments and institutions.
- How can we ensure that all areas of the Australian Public Service collaborate effectively with their international counterparts?
- How can we make it easier for the Australian Public Service to establish and maintain these important partnerships?
What does a trusting and respectful partnership between the Australian Public Service and international governments and institutions look like? What do all parties need to bring to the table? Tell us what you think!
We know that some overseas governments are hostile and duplicitous. Despite the diplomacy they want to influence and use their nationals within the public service to gather information and exert influence in areas of policy. There is a clear conflict of interest and loyalty. Foreign nationals of hostile countries should not be employed in the public service. Many countries do not allow their nationals to hold second citizenships and would also never consider employing foreign nationals in their public services.
I think more opportunities for secondments between the APS and international counterparts would foster greater awareness of what these bodies do and create links between them and us.
At least from where I sit, there is collaboration with international counterparts. What there isn't is effective communications about the learnings and what that means for the direction of the various agencies.
The APS role in international engagement is mixed, so let me start by offering some structure. The APS role internationally includes:
• Negotiation of new rules and norms that address shared problems between Australia and foreign governments (eg trade, climate change) • Sharing detailed information and coordinating action on specific issues that could affect Australia (eg national security, immigration, customs). • Contributing to international organisations established to address shared problems (eg the World Bank, WHO) • Delivering services overseas to Australians (passports, consular) and foreign citizens (visas). • Sharing lessons on best practice through international organisations (eg OECD) or directly from foreign governments.
Some parts of the APS have extensive international links while others have none (or their senior officials attend a few formal meetings, not particularly connected to the ordinary work of their agency). Generally, all governments are struggling from a similar range of problems and there are many areas where the APS can learn more from overseas counterparts, international organisations, foreign academic institutions and think tanks.
We have some examples so maybe we dont have to reinvent; such as Interpol, (arguably) the United Nations, scientific and academic collaborations. It probably needs some oversight or 'championing', perhaps dedicated 'champions' or liaision points in each agency.