Australia’s Refugee/Asylum Seeker Geopolitics in Asia: The Role of Incentives

Abstract

Australia is a destination state for refugees and exhibits behaviours in the 21st century that are worth observing. Australia has a complex problem related to the influx of refugees/asylum seekers via IMAs (Irregular Maritime Arrivals). The majority of refugees/asylum seekers via IMAs originate from countries in Asia. Australia has implemented various strategies to reduce the number of IMAs, including mobilising national resources and utilising international relations. This paper will explain Australia's refugee/asylum seeker geopolitics strategies in several Asian countries through incentive instruments integrating political economy and international relations. The findings from the Australian case study demonstrate that incentives serve multiple roles namely supporting strategic interests, approaching and exercising influence, lubricating bilateral and multilateral cooperation, broadening avenues for demand, and shaping the decisions and behaviour of other actors. This research employs a qualitative approach, utilising both primary and secondary data.