The Biggest Online Petition: Kevin Rudd's Call for Royal Commission

The largest online petition currently circulating is former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd's call for a Royal Commission to be established in Parliament. This petition specifically targets the influence and power held by News Corp Australia and Rupert Murdoch. The petition garnered significant support, reflecting widespread public concern over media power and influence in Australian politics.

Background and Context

Kevin Rudd, a prominent figure in Australian politics, initiated this petition to address the perceived imbalance of power within the media landscape, particularly focusing on the influence of News Corp Australia and its chairman, Rupert Murdoch. The petition argues that such influential media entities can sway public opinion and political decision-making, raising concerns about the integrity and independence of democratic processes.

Current State of the Petition

To date, over 5.8 million Australians have signed this petition, making it not only the largest online petition in Australia but also the biggest online petition in the United States. This level of support underscores the public's desire for transparency and accountability in media practices and their commitment to addressing the issues at hand.

The petition calls for a comprehensive investigation into the influence of News Corp Australia and Rupert Murdoch, aiming to ensure that media power is used for the public good rather than for private benefit. This has sparked a broader debate about the role of the media in democratic societies and the need for regulatory frameworks that can protect against undue influence.

Challenges and Criticisms

Not all online petitions are created equal, and this one is no exception. Critics have pointed out that some petition platforms might not be entirely transparent or effective. For instance, one user mentions that they started a petition to change stalking laws but found that even after paying a fee, the petition was deleted without explanation. This experience highlights the need for greater scrutiny of petition platforms and the importance of holding them accountable.

The case of the stalking law petition underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in the process of launching and managing online petitions. It is vital for users to verify whether the platform they choose is legitimate and capable of delivering results. Transparency in how funds are used, for example, can help build trust among users and enhance the credibility of the petitioning process.

Conclusion

As online petitions continue to gain prominence as a mechanism for public protest and advocacy, it is crucial to understand both their strengths and challenges. The Kevin Rudd petition on the issue of media power serves as a powerful example of how online petitions can bring about significant change. However, it also highlights the need for greater transparency, accountability, and scrutiny of the petition platforms themselves.

To ensure that online petitions can effectively serve their purpose, it is essential to maintain high standards of integrity and transparency. This includes verifying the legitimacy of the petition platform, understanding the terms and conditions, and holding those responsible for the petition accountable.