Hanson addresses London conservative conference to sparse audience

One Nation leader Pauline Hanson delivered a speech to the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in London on Saturday morning, drawing a notably modest turnout that underscored the limited international reach of Australia's far-right political movement.

Around 120 people attended Senator Hanson's address at the InterContinental Hotel's Arora Ballroom, leaving fewer than a quarter of the available seats occupied during the presentation titled The Australian Fight Back. The speech commenced approximately 15 minutes behind schedule.

Mixed reception at international forum

Despite the underwhelming attendance, Senator Hanson received a standing ovation from those present. The 72-year-old politician used the platform to criticise what she characterised as "woke" policies in Australia and to air concerns about immigration levels.

The modest crowd size contrasted with a gala dinner the previous evening, which attracted stronger attendance, though media were excluded from covering that event. Among Saturday's observers were at least a dozen journalists documenting the address.

The sparse attendance highlighted the challenges faced by Australian fringe political figures in garnering significant international attention at established conservative forums.

Significance of overseas political engagement

Senator Hanson's European trip represents an attempt to position One Nation within the broader international conservative movement. CPAC conferences have become important networking venues for right-wing politicians and activists worldwide, offering platforms to amplify messaging to sympathetic audiences and media.

However, the limited turnout suggests that One Nation's brand of Australian nationalism holds relatively modest appeal beyond domestic audiences. International conservative movements typically prioritise speakers with national governing experience or significant parliamentary representation—advantages the One Nation leader does not currently possess at the federal level.

Domestic political context

The trip occurs as One Nation navigates Australia's political landscape following recent elections. The party has maintained Senate representation but faces sustained pressure from mainstream political parties and civil society organisations that view its policies on immigration and multiculturalism as divisive.

Senator Hanson is expected to return to Australia shortly following the conclusion of her European visit. Her participation at CPAC represents one of several efforts by the party to elevate its international profile and forge connections with like-minded conservative movements globally.

Source: ABC News