Live recording of The Protagonists, 22 January, 2026, on The World Today.

Описание: Antisemitism, Hate and Extremism Laws 

Highly controversial antisemitism, hate and extremism laws were passed by Parliament this week without due and proper process. While a small section of the community has welcomed them as a step in the right direction, most commentators are rightly concerned about their likely prohibition of legitimate, mainstream opinions and target groups a future Government may not like. It is far from clear that the safeguards provided are adequate and free from politicisation or if they could prevent another Bondi attack.

A panicked Government aided and abetted by spineless Leader of the Opposition won the day, and the rights and freedoms of ordinary Australians have again been hit. Time will tell whether Albanese has caused a major fissure in the ALP, given the concerns about Genocide inflicted by Israel in Gaza.

Along with ordinary Australians, the Opposition, which has again shown itself incapable of defending the very principals it espouses, is a big loser.

Let’s talk to our panel today on the new laws, what their main concerns are, and perhaps what should have happened.

Mike Ryan HOST

GUESTS:

Kim Wingerei is the publisher and Writer for Michael West Media. Kim is a former businessman, originally from Norway who came to Australia in 1989. Kim has also lived in Chicago, Stockholm and Singapore. Kim likes to look at the big picture and writes about change and solutions. He is the author of "Why Democracy is Broken – A Blueprint for Change", published in 2018.

The Hon Margaret Reynolds AC was Senator for Queensland from 1983 to 1999, representing the Australian Labor Party (ALP). She held ministerial office in the Hawke government as Minister for Local Government (1987–1990) and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for the Status of Women (1988–1990). Margaret Reynolds has a long commitment to the peace movement dating back to the anti-vietnam moratorium to current advocacy against militarism as National President of Women's International League for Peace and Freedom (Australia). She taught human rights and international relations at the University of Queensland 1999-2004 and has worked with a number of international non-government organisations.

Tony Nikolic, General Manager at AFL Solicitors, is an experienced lawyer and Criminologist. Committed to social justice, he offers pro bono legal work and champions civil and human rights, Tony has expertise in whistleblower protections.

About: The Protagonists is a panel of three or four, which presents hot-topic discussions on politics, business, newsmakers, global trends, present-day conflicts, and dangers and challenges facing our world.

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