New penalties proposed after Thorpe protests against King

In Australia, the recent protest by independent senator Lidia Thorpe at a parliamentary reception for King Charles III has led to discussions about potential new penalties for disorderly conduct by senators. Thorpe's protest involved shouting that the King was 'not our king' and demanding a treaty with Indigenous Australians. This incident follows a pattern of similar protests by past senators, as existing penalties appear inadequate since such actions took place outside the Senate chamber. Liberal senator Simon Birmingham suggested that failure to address such protests could deter visiting leaders from engaging with the Australian parliament in the future. As the government deliberates on how to respond to Thorpe's protest, including whether to censure her, experts express caution about increasing penalties. Dr. Piero Moraro, a civil disobedience expert, argues that while censure may be appropriate, imposing more severe measures could stifle dissent within parliamentary settings. He commended Thorpe's actions as brave and admirable, contrary to views that label them contemptible. Thorpe has remained unapologetic following the protest, indicating that she has received significant support from the public. The episode raises broader questions about the nature of protest in Australia, especially in relation to the treatment and recognition of Indigenous rights. Ultimately, the government's response to Thorpe's actions will be pivotal in shaping future interactions between parliamentarians and protest culture in Australia.