Choosing Openness: A Lowy Institute Paper

Timely, compelling and essential- why, as the world closes up, Australia’s economy and society must remain open, by economist and Shadow Assistant Treasurer Andrew Leigh

Across the developed world, global engagement has become a major political fault line. Some say that trade, investment, and immigration are threats rather than opportunities. Global uncertainty, rising inequality, and populism present real challenges to globalists. Choosing Openness argues that Australia’s past prosperity has flowed from engaging with the world. An open Australia requires stronger advocacy and smarter policies.

From 1914 to 1945, the world turned inwards, as fear shut down flows of people and goods across national borders. A century later, can we make a better choice?