Roberts-smith's war crimes trial exposes australian politics' darkest instincts
The arrest and charging of Ben Roberts-Smith has stirred up the worst instincts in Australian Politics, laying bare the country's complex relationship with its military and the rule of law.
Defending the innocent, or shielding the guilty?
Roberts-Smith, a highly decorated former Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) soldier, has been accused of war crimes during his time in Afghanistan. While he enjoys the presumption of innocence, the charges have sparked a heated debate, with some in public life rushing to defend him.
Senator Pauline Hanson has pledged her support for Roberts-Smith, seemingly oblivious to the legal complexities of the case. Gina Rinehart, Australia's wealthiest person, has also expressed incomprehension at the arrest, worrying about the costs and impact on defence force morale. Even former Prime Minister Tony Abbott has weighed in, effusively praising special forces soldiers and shifting blame from individual soldiers to the system.
However, this blanket defence of decorated soldiers does a disservice to the ADF's reputation for integrity and adherence to the rules of war. Unlike some of the world's other military powers, Australia prides itself on being a humane and disciplined force. This is due in part to the rigorous selection process for special forces applicants, which ensures only the most proficient, intelligent, and grounded individuals make the grade.
Yet, there can be no excuses for alleged atrocities. As former Chief of the Defence Force Lt Gen David Morrison and his predecessor Gen David Hurley have said, the standard we walk past is the standard we accept. Allowing credible allegations of war crimes to go unchecked would lead down a dangerous path, one that the US, Israel, and Iran have already trodden.
At the heart of this matter is the rule of law, which sets Australia apart. While the job of a soldier is incomprehensible to many, it is the legal framework that ensures accountability and upholds human rights, even in the midst of conflict. To brush aside or immunise alleged wrongdoing would be a betrayal of the very principles that define Australia's military and society.
As the trial unfolds, it's crucial that we maintain a balanced perspective. We must support our veterans and their families while also upholding the highest standards of justice. Only by doing so can we ensure that Australia remains a beacon of integrity and respect for the law, both at home and abroad.