Incorrigible Optimist Gareth Evans

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A colourful and central figure in Australian politics for two decades—described by Bob Hawke as having 'the most acute mind' of any of his ministers—Gareth Evans has also been applauded worldwide for his contributions, both as Foreign Minister and in later international roles, to conflict resolution, genocide prevention and curbing weapons of mass destruction.

In this sometimes moving, often entertaining, and always lucid memoir Evans looks back over the highs and lows of his public life as a student activist, civil libertarian, law reformer, industry minister, international policymaker, educator and politician. He explains why it is that, despite multiple disappointments, he continues to believe that a safer, saner and more decent world is achievable, and why, for all its frustrations, politics remains an indispensable profession not only for megalomaniacs but idealists.

Gareth Evans was a Cabinet member throughout the Hawke-Keating years, as Attorney-General (1983-84), Minister for Resources and Energy (1984-87), Minister for Transport and Communications (1987-88) and Foreign Minister (1988-96). As Senator for Victoria from 1978 to 1996, he was Deputy Leader (1987-93) then Leader of the Government in the Senate (1993- 96); as Member for Holt (1996-99) he served as Deputy Leader of the Opposition from 1996 to 1998. He left Australian politics to become President and CEO of the Brussels-based International Crisis Group from 2000 to 2009, and has been Chancellor of the Australian National University since 2010.

At this event, Gareth is in conversation with The Hon Michael Kirby AC CMG.