Australia’s Diplomatic Network Smaller Than Its Economic Power: Index

‘Diplomacy is often overlooked as a measure of influence, but it has bever been a more important element of statecraft.’

The Australian flag is seen at full mast after the Proclamation of King Charles III, on the forecourt of Parliament House in Canberra, Australia, on Sept. 11, 2022. Mick Tsikas - Pool/Getty Images

Australia’s diplomatic footprint remained undersized relative to its economic weight, with its network having a similar size to Portugal, Chile, and Pakistan, a think tank report has shown.

The Global Diplomacy Index, launched in 2016 by the Lowy Institute, aims to provide insights into countries’ official overseas presence, and where they sought to wield it to build influence.