“Sovereignty…binds us together” The Case for Australia to Join BRICS
John Shipton Pushes for Australia's Membership in BRICS
Melbourne, November 17, 2024 — The Australian Citizens Party National Conference concluded today with a thought-provoking address by John Shipton, philosopher, anti-war activist, and leading advocate for his son, WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange. The event, featured Shipton as the final speaker in a panel discussion titled “An Honest Approach to Governance.”
Shipton, who recently turned 80, shared insights from his recent attendance at the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, and offered his perspectives on global politics, neoliberalism, and the importance of sovereignty. He expressed concern about the decline in population growth rates in various countries, attributing this trend to the effects of neoliberal policies.
The veteran activist criticised Australia's management of its natural resources, particularly the Northwest Shelf gas project, comparing the country's revenue to that of Qatar. Shipton stated, “Qatar income per annum from the gas they produce is $29 billion per annum each year. Australia gets 800 million.”
Shipton also touched on geopolitical issues, including conflicts in the Middle East and the potential for future wars. He emphasised the importance of preserving civilisations and cultures, urging attendees to “walk with pride in being human and being Australian.”
The speech concluded with reflections on the concept of sovereignty and its significance for national identity and decision-making. Shipton advocated for Australia to consider joining BRICS, stating that the only requirement is to have no sanctions against member countries.
Watch the Speech Here:
Notable Quotes:
“Neoliberalism as a culture, Population growth in Australia declining for the last 30 years, 1.5 children per woman. Reproduction rate 2.1. We're inert, you might say sterile.”
“We propelled the government of Australia to take up its responsibilities. We did, us, each and every one of us. 97% of Australians supported Julian's return home. Sorry, 87%. Shouldn't exaggerate.”
“Sovereignty, it has a number of effects. It binds us together in an understanding that we're in it together. Secondly, it allows us to act in our own interest with clarity.”
“All we have to do to join BRICS is have no sanctions, that's all. Don't have to jump hoops, just have no sanctions.”
“Gather as Australians, gather in our strength and hold it here within us and within each individual and within your families.”
Speech FAQs:
Question: What is John Shipton's connection to Julian Assange?
Answer: John Shipton is Julian Assange's father and has been a tireless advocate for his son's release and return to Australia.
Question: What recent international event did John Shipton attend?
Answer: John Shipton recently attended the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, in October 2024. As one of the few de facto representatives of Australia at the conference.
Question: How does John Shipton describe his political stance?
Answer: Shipton describes himself as a “conservative socialist,” supporting ideas like community health while also valuing family structures.
