Opinion piece by Dr Berhan Ahmed | Community Leader
Australia’s 21st-century social mosaic is rich with diverse life experiences, histories, cultures, and identities, particularly among refugees and asylum seekers traumatised by wars in which Australia has been involved. These individuals bring a profound perspective to the national dialogue, highlighting a significant gap in understanding among politicians who lack personal experience of such traumas or were part of the decision-making processes leading to these conflicts.
Expecting a unified vote from those who have suffered alongside those who made the decisions causing their suffering is unrealistic and unjust. Australia’s approach to unity in its parliamentary caucus, reminiscent of a colonial mindset, is inadequate in a modern, multicultural society. It is time for parliamentarians to embrace the experiences and knowledge of war victims and trauma survivors to create humane and informed policies.
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One notable example is Hon. Fatima Payman, a refugee who experienced the traumas of war, exemplifies the perspective needed in the parliamentary caucus. Her insights contrast sharply with those of privileged members distant from war impacts, making her invaluable in creating empathetic and just policies.
Similarly, Julian Assange, who has spent 14 years in exile and prison for exposing the realities of war, highlights the disconnect between those who suffer and those who make decisions from a safe distance. Assange’s case underscores the need for a parliamentary approach that values truth, transparency, and the lived experiences of war victims.
Australia must move towards an inclusive and empathetic parliamentary caucus that respects the experiences of war victims and refugees. The outdated and ineffective politics of racing for power through superficial correctness must be replaced with substantive representation and empathy. Embracing diverse experiences within the caucus is crucial for creating a just and compassionate society.
