Sovereignty that saves lives

Here is what I wrote to the Editor of The Age today:

From the beginning, Operation Sovereign Borders has been hampered by serious issues of neglect: first overlooking the extent of Australia’s maritime borders, then disregarding that sovereignty comes with responsibilities as much as with rights.

Exercising sovereignty means ensuring that those who claim asylum will be safer in our care than in the circumstances they fled. Yesterday, St Paul’s Cathedral was lit up by the lights of thousands who demonstrated the kind of sovereignty that many Australians want: one that makes certain that no one will die in Australia’s care.

Photo credit: ASRC1